What is Hardscape in Construction? What You Need to Know

Hardscape plays a major role in how outdoor spaces look, feel, and function. From pergolas to retaining walls, hardscape elements provide structure, durability, and long-term usability in both residential and commercial properties. Understanding what hardscape is in construction helps property owners make more educated decisions when planning outdoor projects.

What is Considered Hardscape in Construction?

In construction and landscape design, hardscape refers to the non-living elements of an outdoor space. These features use materials like stone, concrete, brick, metal, and wood to create structure and define how a space is used.

Hardscape works alongside softscape, which includes trees, grass, and soil, in outdoor design. Together, hardscape and softscape create balanced, functional outdoor environments. Without hardscape, outdoor areas often lack organization and durability. Without softscape, they can feel cold or unfinished.

Hardscape Maintenance

While hardscape features are built to last, they still require routine maintenance. Paver patios, for example, benefit from occasional cleaning and sealing to prevent weed growth and preserve visual appeal. Wooden pergolas, meanwhile, need regular inspections for moisture damage along with annual sealing and proper wood staining.

Maintenance, even for "low-maintenance projects," can still be time-consuming. That is where hiring professional hardscaping services can help; professional maintenance helps preserve appearance, protect structural integrity, and reduce costly repairs in the future.

Regulations

Many hardscape projects in St. Louis and the surrounding areas require permits or must otherwise meet local building codes. Retaining walls over a certain height, decks attached to homes, drainage changes, and commercial hardscape projects, for example, often need formal approval.

Poynter Landscape Architecture & Construction helps clients navigate these regulations from the start. Our team handles permitting, code compliance, and coordination with local authorities, helping projects move forward smoothly and in full compliance with all local laws and regulations.

Hardscape Design Tips

For Residential Design

1. Function: Homeowners should start by thinking about how they will use their outdoor living space. For example, a patio designed for large gatherings looks different from a quiet seating area.
2. Scale: Hardscape features should fit the size of the yard and home. Oversized patios or walls can overwhelm smaller properties, for example.
3. Materials: Start any landscape project off right by choosing the right hardscape materials. For example, choosing natural stone offers a timeless appeal while still being easy to maintain. Meanwhile, concrete pavers provide affordability and durability.
4. Drainage and runoff: Proper grading helps prevent water issues and soil erosion.

For Commercial Design

• Safety and durability: Commercial hardscape design should always prioritize safety. Walkways and plazas, for instance, should handle high foot traffic while remaining accessible and slip-resistant.
• Consistency: Consistent materials enhance curb appeal by creating a more uniform, "professional" look.
• Upkeep: Selecting long-lasting materials reduces long-term costs and makes upkeep simpler.
• Compliance: Compliance with ADA requirements and local codes should always guide design decisions.

FAQs

What is an example of a hardscape?

Common examples of hardscape construction projects include:

• Flagstone patios
• Fire pits
• Outdoor fireplaces
• Outdoor kitchens
• Gazebos
• Driveways
• Walkways
• Water features like fountains

Are sidewalks considered hardscape?

Sidewalks are a type of hardscape.

How does hardscaping benefit my outdoor space?

Hardscaping adds structure, improves usability, helps manage potential drainage issues, and creates defined areas for living and movement. It also increases property value and reduces maintenance in high-traffic areas.

How can I benefit from hiring professional hardscape designers?

Professionals have the know-how to do everything correctly the first time, helping property owners avoid costly mistakes. Poynter Landscape Architecture & Construction has decades of experience serving St. Louis-area property owners just like you. Contact Poynter Landscape Architecture & Construction today to start planning a hardscape project that fits your vision.