Is an elegant deck, pergola and patio outdoor living combination your ideal of a dream backyard? If so, we can make it a reality.
Within the genre of outdoor structures the term hardscape requires some elaboration. Hardscapes include patios, retaining walls, planters, outdoor fire features and any structures created from concrete, stone (synthetic or natural), brick or pavers.
A peek at one of the gorgeous gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted at the Biltmore House Estate.
In the beginning… The origin of hardscapes takes us all the way back to 1873, when Frederick Law Olmsted, the landscape designer many consider to be the Father of American landscape architecture, was commissioned to design the grounds of the US Capitol building. Much of this commission consisted of architectural elements to enhance the natural setting around the Capitol. These included lampposts, fountains, seating walls and paths. Olmsted also played a role in the creation of much of the landscape for the well-known Biltmore House and Gardens in Asheville, NC. Modern-day landscape architects coined the phrase “hardscape” about 100 years later as a way to distinguish these elements from the natural and botanical components of Olmsted’s work. Once only used among landscapers, the term “hardscape” is now widely used throughout the world of outdoor design and among the general population.
Benefits of using a hardscape… Hardscape structures, like patio spaces, continue to increase in popularity because they are low-maintenance and add value and durability to your outdoor space. There is a wide selection of structures you can build to enhance either a void space or an existing outdoor living space. A hardscape will enhance your outdoor living space and will pay for itself in the long run. By adding a hardscape feature such as a patio or outdoor fire feature to your outdoor living area you can add depth, texture and rustic appeal. This is accomplished by mingling the natural elements hardscapes provide which create a tactile feature that you can see and feel. Take a look at just a few of the patio and outdoor living space combinations possible in this video created by Archadeck of Central SC
Combining structures that work in unison will give you the freedom to designate a separate function for each space. A hardscape patio is considered part of your landscape, whereas decks and porches are generally connected in some way to your existing home. A patio is the perfect structure to flow from a deck, porch or 3-season room and adds functional outdoor living space. Patios are also considered low-maintenance, which is an often overlooked benefit of owning a hardscape. Patios are easy to maintain and keep clean. If something happens to one paver, it can be removed and replaced without disrupting the structure around it.
This space includes a low-maintenance deck, patio and rounded planter. A perfect example of the way hardscapes can enhance a deck or porch.
Hardscape and patio additions go together beautifully with decks, porches, three and four-season rooms and even sunroom additions. No matter which type of outdoor living space you have in mind, a hardscape will add a layer of function, beauty and style.
Contact Archadeck of Central SC to learn more about hardscape patios and versatile outdoor living combination designs. We are your one-stop shop for all your outdoor living design needs! (803) 603-2160 centralsc@archadeck.net
The Archadeck of Central SC team – Mike Reu, Marshall Reu and Tucker Reu
Please visit our patio and hardscapes photo gallery located on our website for more inspiring ideas.
