Do you want to turn your outdoor space into a functional and aesthetic space? Investing in hardscape Seattle services could be exactly what you need. While landscaping’s primary focus is on the natural living elements of your outdoor space including plants and trees, hardscaping places emphasis on the non-living features. It aids in adding structure and function as well as aesthetic appeal to your space. Below, we delve into the world of hardscaping and the most common types of hardscaping.
Defining Hardscaping
Many people looking to improve their outdoor spaces ask us, what is hardscaping? The simple definition for this term is the practice of incorporating non-living elements into your outdoor environment. These elements can range from paths and walls to patios and water features. Hardscaping isn’t just for improving the aesthetic appeal of the outdoor space but also to improve its function. For example, the addition of a patio in your backyard will make spending time outdoors more comfortable for you and your household.
Hardscaping vs Landscaping
Are you wondering whether to invest in hardscaping Seattle services or landscaping services. While the terms are often used interchangeably, they are distinct in their applications. Hardscaping involves the incorporation of non-living elements into the outdoor environment while landscaping primarily deals with living elements. Hardscaping makes use of ‘hard’ or non-living materials such as stone, wood, concrete and metal while landscaping makes use of living elements such as plants and shrubs to create a visually appealing space.
Hardscaping Examples Seattle Residents Love
There are various types of products and materials that can be used to craft hardscapes. Below we provide an overview of the most common types of hardscaping features.
Stone pathways
Guiding visitors through your garden or yard, stone pathways offer both practical function and visual appeal. They can be designed in various patterns and layouts. Pathways help you avoid trampling on plants. They also help to keep your feet from getting dirty. These features are a great way to add texture and character to your outdoor space.
Fire Pits
Perfect for gathering around with friends and family on chill evenings, fire pits add warmth and ambiance to outdoor spaces. Whether built from stone, brick or metal, they serve as focal points for relaxation and entertainment.
Gazebos and pergolas
These architectural features provide shade, shelter and a focal point for outdoor activities. Gazebos typically have a closed roof and are freestanding while pergolas have an open roof and are commonly attached to a structure. They offer a great opportunity to extend your living space to the outdoors.
Retaining Walls
Ideal for controlling soil erosion, creating terraced gardens or defining different areas of your yard, retaining walls are sturdy structures built from materials like stone, concrete or timber. They not only serve a functional purpose but also enhance the overall aesthetics of your landscape. A short retaining wall can be used as outdoor sitting space. Retaining walls can also be used to create garden beds in a sloping backyard.
Fountains
Adding a touch of tranquility and elegance to your landscape, fountains come in various styles and sizes, from classical tiered designs to modern minimalist structures. The sound of flowing water will create a soothing atmosphere.
Decks and patios
Transforming outdoor spaces into comfortable areas for relaxation and entertainment, decks and patios serve as extensions of your living space. Whether constructed from wood, composite materials or stone, they offer versatile options for outdoor living.
Hardscaping Can Increase the Value of Your Home
Beyond the aesthetic benefits, hardscaping can significantly increase the value of your home. We’ll-designed outdoor spaces with hardscaping features are highly desirable to potential buyers, as they extend the living area and enhance the curb appeal of the property. These spaces contribute to the functionality and usability of the outdoor space, further enhancing the appeal of the property to prospective buyers.
Do you want to elevate your outdoor space? Contact us, GMC Landscapes for expert hardscape landscaping Seattle services. We’ll help you create a beautiful and functional outdoor space.