Hardscaping your backyard enhances the natural beauty of the space while adding a touch of sophistication. Whether you want to start with a small project or jump right into a full-scale transformation, there are 10 design factors you can address to help start the process.
Table of Contents
1. Budgeting Your Project
The least fun part of any home improvement project is discussing the money situation, but you don’t want to run out of money before the project is finished. Start with the maximum amount you are willing to spend, then make a list of the features that you most desire. Set dollar amounts for each aspect of the project, and stick to your budgeting decisions.
2. Drawing The Plan
Before you lay the first stone, you need to know the size and shape of your yard. Get accurate measurements of all the free space that you want to use for your project, then make a diagram on paper. Fill in the spaces with the features you plan to add, making sure they are all drawn to scale.
3. Draining The Water
When you add hardscaping elements to your yard you affect the natural drainage systems, which can lead to unexpected pooling and water damage. It’s essential to have a drainage plan in place. One suggestion is to add a water reservoir or a water feature that can recycle rainwater through its system.
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4. Building A Showpiece
Every room needs a focal point that centers the attention of the space. In your yard, you have a lot of freedom for your showpiece. Showpieces like an outdoor bar or fire pit create natural gathering spots and serve well as the focus of your outdoor space.
5. Seating Your Guests
Your plan should have plenty of room for seating, and enough space to add extra seats when you have a higher number of guests than usual.
6. Carving Private Areas
There are few things more romantic than sharing a starry evening with your significant other. Set aside a small, private space suitable for just two in your plans. A bench in the corner of the yard or a special seat on a stonework structure are great places to spend some quiet time alone, or with someone you love.
7. Heating And Cooling
A proper heating and cooling plan will allow you to use your space all year long. Consider an outdoor fireplace for cool nights and a series of ceiling fans to cool seating areas when the weather turns warmer.
8. Adopting Curves
Spice up your design with a series of gentle curves created by your hardscaping. Flowerbeds don’t have to be rectangular, and pathways don’t have to be straight. Curves can soften the environment and add to the relaxation factor.
9. “Greening” The Space
Hardscaping adds a lot of stone and wood to your yard, but that can sometimes make the yard look drab and gray. Shrubs, small trees, and brightly colored flowers inject a splash of color into your yard. They create contrast with your hardscaping, which helps the wood and stonework stand out.
10. Embracing An Experience
The visual aspect of your hardscaping project is of primary importance; however, you can elevate your hardscaping by crafting a sensory experience. Night-blooming plants, like jasmine and evening primrose, add a fresh fragrance to your yard, and evoke feelings of peace and tranquility.
Start Planning
Get inspiration for your outdoor space in our project gallery.