Hardscape brings an undeniable sense of functionality to outdoor spaces. The complexity of this dimension of landscape architecture goes far beyond drawing pathways or installing gazebos. Incorporating structural elements into your garden comes with its own set of rules that ensure the comfortable and efficient use of exterior areas. When followed, these principles will bring harmony, a natural feel, and the restful retreat you've been dreaming of. Here are some of the most important:
1. Define the Purpose
Before sketching out a design, think about how you intend to use the space. Are you looking for a terrace for quiet coffee mornings, or do you want a space to host large outdoor gatherings with family and friends? Do you envision a garden where pets can run freely or one where they’re not allowed at all?
These details are even more important than your aesthetic preferences or choice of plants. With a clearly defined purpose, you'll know which elements to include in order to divide the space rationally and make it easy to use and maintain. For example, if you’ll be using an outdoor kitchen frequently, placing it near the indoor kitchen could simplify your path to utensils or supplies.
2. Strategically Block Circulation
If your outdoor kitchen is positioned along the route between the terrace and the pool, you risk turning it into a high-traffic zone. The same applies to a terrace with three or four entry and exit points. To avoid such issues, place furniture in a way that naturally guides foot traffic in the direction you need. Still, be careful not to overdo it and block access to focal points like the fireplace or coffee table. Access should always feel intuitive and flow logically.
3. Organic Seating Areas
We’re not necessarily talking about ergonomic chairs or trees providing generous shade. Since you never know what a gathering might bring, it’s smart to prepare for scenarios where you may have twice as many guests as you do outdoor chairs. Fortunately, this isn’t a problem if you include surfaces that can double as seating. Wide steps can work perfectly, as can the edges of a terrace or low zoning walls. The latter are especially great for kids, who don’t need individual seats so much as a shared space to play and laugh together.
4. Engage the Senses
A garden is more than just a tidy, pretty scene—it should offer a fully immersive experience that engages all the senses and creates lasting memories. The scent of jasmine, the flicker of firelight, the rustling of trees, or the soft murmur of a nearby stream can become integral parts of your outdoor relaxation routine. Nighttime lighting can also work wonders, highlighting the garden’s structure and guiding the eye across the space in the dark.
5. Only Curves with Purpose
Yes, curves bring a poetic touch to a space—but don’t add them just because you like how they look. Remember, you already have plants serving as natural balancing elements, so you don’t need to introduce another form artificially.
Every line, whether curved or straight, should serve a real functional or aesthetic purpose. Well-thought-out curves can guide the eye, define intuitive pathways, or frame key areas. But if they’re added haphazardly, they can overwhelm the space and break the visual flow. Instead of impressing with decorative flourishes, let form arise naturally from context—consider the terrain, movement patterns, and function of each area.