Plants may be the first thing you think of when considering a new landscape, but they’re not the only element. Many landscape professionals divide landscaping into two distinct parts—”softscape” and “hardscape. ” Softscape refers to all of the plant-based elements of a landscape, while hardscape consists of all the other parts of a landscaping, including features such as walkways, retaining walls and patio furniture.

Hardscape elements help to organize and structure a landscape. Without hardscape, landscapes may look chaotic or unstructured. Careful use of hardscaping can help turn a so-so yard into a beautiful, polished-looking landscape.

Hardscaping Basics

Any part of your landscape that is not natural or plant-based generally falls into the category of hardscape. Hardscape elements can be large (driveways or decks, for example), or relatively small (such as statues or even pink flamingoes).

Some common types of hardscaping include:

• Arbors
• Decks
• Driveways
• Fences
• Fountains
• Gazebos
• Patios
• Walkways
• Walls.

Before you decide on specific types of hardscaping, consider how you plan to use your space. If you have children, you may want to incorporate play equipment into your landscape, and if you entertain frequently, you may want a deck, patio or grill area. You’ll also want to think about maintenance costs and how hardscape elements will wear over time. It’s also important to look at drainage and structural issues before installing major hardscape elements.

Adding Hardscape to a Landscape

Many hardscape projects require careful planning and major work to install, such as pools, patios or driveways. But building a deck or installing a pool isn’t the only way to add hardscape to your property. Even simple steps, such as adding a small statue or bench, can help give your landscape structure and definition. Wood or stone edging materials can be added to planting beds, and patio furniture or deck chairs add another visual element to the landscape.

Some people use hardscaping to create a very formal landscape, while others may use it to give shape and structure to a more informal design. Whether your landscape is formal or informal, you will probably want to put in any major hardscape elements before you add softscaping.

Whatever type of hardscape materials you choose, you’ll want to make sure they’re appropriate for your overall landscape plan. Apply the same principles of design (such as color, texture, repetition, form and balance) to choosing hardscape elements as you do to softscaping, and remember to think about how your hardscape and softscape will work together to create a pleasing landscape. With careful planning, hardscape can help you create a landscape that will add both comfort and value to your home.