Integrating Hardscaping with Softscaping

The symmetry between hardscaping and softscaping is a major factor when enhancing your home's curb appeal. When introducing a new feature to your home, such as pathways, retaining walls, and patios, it’s necessary to consider how these structures will be placed. This will include situating the hardscapes to blend with the surrounding softscaping and, if applicable, designing it accordingly. On its own, integrating these features can be difficult and time-consuming. Still, with the right team of experts, you can seamlessly integrate these two elements to achieve the harmonious and visually stunning landscape you’ve always wanted. The Perfect Placement: Hardscaping Essentials Before undertaking your hardscaping projects, having a plan will make the process easier. Take a moment to envision your definition of an ideal outdoor space, and then consider how you and your family will use it - for instance, a space for relaxation, entertainment, or just extra space for hosting or seating. Identify which key areas look best or are the most functional with hardscaping features like patios, walkways, or retaining walls. Remember, hardscaping should complement your softscaping instead of overwhelm it. For example, a strategically placed stone pathway through your garden can highlight the beauty of neighboring plants and flowers without either one overpowering the other. Similarly, the placement of each flower and hardscape can make a difference. By lining stunning plants along the sides of a hardscaping feature, this placement will do wonders for your landscape. Hardscape for Specific Spaces To truly balance hardscaping with softscaping, selecting the right materials and designs for specific areas within your landscape is important. Here are some ideas for various ways to add dimension to specific spaces:

• Tight Spaces - Those narrow, frequently overlooked corners of your yard can still be transformed into small pockets of design. These spaces are easy to forget and can look sorely out of place if not designed properly. Contemplate installing a small, circular patio to make an area for extra seating and gatherings. Surround the new space with softscaping elements or highlight larger plants beside or potted plants to create a cozy, tucked-away space.
• Center of the Landscape - The central area of your outdoor space is an excellent canvas for unleashing creativity into the landscape. While a spacious patio or deck can be the focal point for outdoor dining and lounging near the house, the center of your landscape can feature a firepit or retaining wall structure. Enhance it with softscapes such as shrubs and flowering plants to soften the edges.