The Versatility of Hardscape Materials in Modern Landscaping

The Versatility of Hardscape Materials in Modern Landscaping

Hardscape—as opposed to vegetative landscape—can be an important and impressive element in any homeowner’s yard. Used for walkways, steps, retaining walls, borders, or columns, hard materials like flagstone, bluestone, concrete, boulders, and other manmade or natural materials can create focal points, separate plant beds and wooded areas, surround swimming pools, and perform many other functional and aesthetic roles.

Bluestone & Flagstone

Bluestone or flagstone can be a fine choice for walkways, even with their irregular shapes and installation challenges. Some paths take a casual approach, resembling stepping stones, while others feature tightly interlocked stones for a formal, artistic effect. “The installer is a craftsman,” says one expert. “They do a lot of cutting, chipping, and piecing to achieve that seamless look.”

Flagstone can be wet-laid into concrete or dry-laid on crushed stone. Dry installations using gravel or decomposed granite (d.g.) allow rainwater permeability, whereas wet-laid surfaces create solid pathways that direct runoff.

Boulders, Stones, Rocks & Gravel

Paths can be accentuated with boulders, gravel, or stones to separate them from adjacent areas. For instance, potato stones—a byproduct of potato farming—can border a flagstone path. “The harvester picks both potatoes and stones,” explains a landscaper. “The stones are sorted out and repurposed for landscaping.”

Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers are a popular, affordable option available in diverse shapes, sizes, and colors. They are commonly used for driveways, patios, and walkways but also lend themselves to creative applications:

• Decorative walls: Colored pavers can form curved retaining walls or circular patterns at stair bases.
• Aged finishes: Tumbled pavers mimic weathered brick or stone for a vintage aesthetic.
• Structural elements: Pavers can build columns to support planters, lamps, or even patio swings. “Square columns can hold beams for swings, creating outdoor relaxation spaces,” notes a hardscape specialist.

Retaining & Privacy Walls

Large, heavy pavers are ideal for retaining walls that combat erosion or privacy walls that screen backyard views. Their weight ensures stability without additional adhesives. One notable installation featured a hillside staircase with pavers forming a circular design, columns, and retaining walls to transform a steep slope into an accessible, visually striking space.

Disappearing Walls

Pavers can also create green walls—structures with open compartments for plants. Over time, foliage like flowering ground cover can engulf the wall, shifting focus from the hardscape to the vegetation. “It’s like stacking dresser drawers and letting plants take over,” describes an expert. This technique is perfect for softening or concealing unwanted structures.