Most people automatically think of plants when they hear the word landscape, but it also encompasses a wide variety of other features that enhance, beautify, and add interest and value to properties. Within landscapes, there are ample opportunities to incorporate hardscapes.

Hardscapes can include paved paths and driveways, fountains, waterfalls, and pools, along with statuary, patios, fire pits and retaining walls. It can embrace decks, gazebos, pergolas, and stairways. Hardscape features are those made of materials such as metal, stone, brick, concrete and wood – the non-living elements within a landscape.

A hardscape can be decorative, practical or both. It can be as simple as adding a bench or something more complicated such as installing fencing. The elements work together to complement current or future landscaping, the architectural style of a home or business, improve functionality of the outdoor space, and meet the needs of the property owner.

Hardscaping is also an efficient and effective way to create a sense of dimension or emphasize boundaries between properties or other elements in the landscape. Fences and water hardscapes are particularly beneficial for masking traffic noise and water hardscapes are desirable for relaxing and entertaining.

In the past, the practice was typically to utilize one type of hardscaping to the exclusion of another. Today, the trend in cutting edge landscape design is to combine features for a more well-rounded approach or create ‘zones.’

Other trends include sleek and modern that utilizes linear and contemporary design with modern materials such as porcelain, that’re easy to clean and maintain. Another trend features multipurpose walls that double as benches, raised planters, or garden beds in which to grow a kitchen garden. Adding state-of-the-art lighting is also popular and contributes to safety and security.

No matter what type of hardscapes you may have envisioned, your landscape designer is sure to have ideas and concepts you may never have even considered. A landscape professional can introduce you to a wide variety of hardscape options and assist you in deciding what will work best on your property.

RCH Landscaping is a full service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install, and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians have an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760

At RCH Landscaping of Boca Raton, FL we believe nature isn’t all one size fits all solution and your yard shouldn’t be either. Property owners can incorporate different sized planting to create a cozy environment for rest and relaxation or give the appearance of a much larger space. There are a number of strategies and landscaping aids that can be utilized to avoid a “flat” looking space that’s interesting and exciting.

A trellis, arbor or fence, along with larger upright plants, adds vertical height and can provide privacy. Flowering vines can be added that will grow over structures to provide visual interest and food for birds, butterflies and bees.

Elevation is a key component that can be accomplished with hanging baskets, raised planters, and pots placed on pillars. Flowers can provide an eye-catching focus, trail over the sides of a planter, or create a mound of sparkling color.

Garden pathways aren’t just for large estates. They add depth, dimension, and a straight patch can draw attention directly into a smaller garden. Larger stones are typically used for straight paths, while smaller stones are utilized in winding paths. A straight path is preferred for smaller gardens to give the impression of a larger space.

The direction in which pathways and even decking is laid can alter the perception of a yard. A pathway laid diagonally gives the impression of space and the same is true of deck planking and patio stones. The techniques make the back of the yard appear farther away.

Another effective technique is to place a burst of red or orange color at entryways with flowers. Red bricks and tropical plants with large leaves can perform the same function and create the same effect. Use cooler flower colors toward the outer borders to create a sense of endless space.

Property owners can take advantage of a centuries-old technique utilized in Japanese landscaping. For those fortunate enough to have a scenic view on the other side of their property border, the eye can be drawn to that view to give the impression of a much larger space. It’s a technique that makes it appear as if the yard is blending into the open spaces beyond the property line.

Above all else, create a focal point. It can be a slightly raised or sunken deck or patio, or even a container garden or raised planter. Specimen plants can be used, a trellis, arbor or fire pit. A professional landscaper or garden design expert has a solution for yards of every size that can accommodate a variety of budgets.

RCH Landscaping is a full service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install, and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians have an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760