There are seven categories of general hardscape: patios and decks, gazebos and pergolas, walls (in the form of raised planter beds or, if you’re on a hill, load-bearing retaining walls), stone pathways, fountains, fire pits, and driveways.
And let’s not forget the luxury built-ins, such as a pool or an outdoor kitchen.
Whether one is starting with a blank (or all-grass) slate or adding to or overhauling an existing hardscape, the first step is to make a list or drawing of the ideal yard, including every possible dream item. This can be scaled back if needed, but no one wants to realize they put a patio in the ideal location for a pool down the road.
What style and materials (stone, masonry, or wood) complement the home? This can also be scaled back as needed to fit a budget, or alternatively, the project can be done in phases over several years as finances allow. And let’s not forget the biggest potential savings for handy homeowners: doing it yourself.
Meet the Materials
Natural stone is at the top end of materials. Popular choices include flagstone, bluestone, limestone, and slate. Used for patios, walls, and walkways, these are all classic, durable, and versatile. Another timeless choice is brick, which adds instant warmth and can be laid in any of a number of patterns to add visual interest.
Concrete is another favorite that can be molded into custom shapes and sizes, including mimicking natural stone, brick, and, surprisingly, even wood. Concrete is more affordable than natural stone and is a lower-maintenance option for a patio or driveway, as the solid slab keeps the weeds down. On the downside, that solid concrete pad might affect drainage, in which case concrete pavers may be the better option, providing cost savings and permeability. No matter what, be sure to slope all stone decks away from the house for water runoff.
Wood is the top choice for decks, pergolas, and other outdoor structures. Make sure it’s pressure-treated, rot-resistant cedar, redwood, mahogany, teak, Ipe, or bamboo, or perhaps low-maintenance composite decking.
Al Fresco Essential
While hardscape elements can be beautiful, they’re about much more than looks. Patios and decks increase living space and property value. Stone, brick, or concrete patios are usually at ground level, while decks “float” above the ground, from those set on simple ground-contact framing to raised affairs or second-story balconies that connect with the backyard, making them a popular choice for an uneven backyard.
All can attach to the back of the house to allow the interior to flow outside for relaxation, dining, and entertaining. Design it to surround a pool or be situated elsewhere in the yard to create a usable focal point or a private retreat. Whether it’s a small area for family or a large area for entertaining, mark out the potential area, set out your chairs, etc., and “live” with it for a few days before starting the project.
Fun and Relaxation
Few things are as stress-reducing after a long day at work or keeping an eye on energetic kids as relaxing around a cozy firepit. Plus, it draws people outside in seasons when the backyard might not otherwise be in use. A built-in firepit can be as simple as standalone construction in a lawn, a brick or stone pit built into the new patio, or its own oasis with built-in seating or space for Adirondack chairs. Be sure to check local building codes and homeowners association covenants for restrictions.
Soothing and elegant, water features can run the gamut from a pre-made or do-it-yourself burbling to a recirculating standalone or wall-mounted fountain or even a paved garden “stream.” Whatever the choice, solar fountain pumps eliminate the need to run special wiring and cut down on the electric bill.
Want to really make a statement? Place pavers in a checkerboard pattern to create the setting for a game of human chess, or buy several oversized outdoor chess pieces to make a really cool focal point.
Vertical Assets
Built-in planters add architectural interest without sacrificing planting space. When designing adjacent to the house, always leave a two- to six-inch gap to avoid bringing mold, mildew, and water into the home. Stone, brick, and concrete planters surrounding a patio or pool add focal points, can be used to divide a backyard into garden rooms, and are much easier on your back to tend to. Similarly, the need for load-bearing retaining walls on a sloped lot can be an opportunity to install a terraced garden.
Tie It Together
Stone pathways of natural stone or concrete pavers allow movement among diverse areas without having to tramp across the lawn or get one’s feet dirty. This might also be the time to consider redoing the driveway, particularly if you have parking in the rear, to convert the original built-in driveway into an architectural asset. Rear driveways, in particular, can double as entertaining spaces when the cars are parked elsewhere.
Top-of-the-Line Living
An underused backyard is wasted potential. Remember, time spent outdoors is good for your health.
Al Fresco Tastes Better
Outdoor kitchens range from a few square feet with a built-in grill to the functionality of a traditional kitchen with a grill, griddle, burners, pizza oven, granite counters, cabinet storage, refrigerator, ice maker, and even dishwasher.
Gazebo or Pergola
Free-standing structures provide shelter for outdoor gatherings and can be home to an outdoor kitchen and bar or even house a hot tub. Toss in some space heaters and you’ve got the opportunity to add an all-season room to the house in the shape and size of your choice.
Swimming Pool
In addition to never having to mow that area of the lawn again, an in-ground swimming pool provides a place to cool off on hot summer days, an opportunity to get some exercise, and a kid-friendly hangout. However, be prepared to open the checkbook wide, since this isn’t a DIY project.
