Have you been thinking of adding hardscape to your backyard? Here are some backyard hardscape ideas that will not only give your yard a new look but add functionality for your needs.
Hardscape is referred to as any hard non living element for outdoor purposes that includes concrete, fire pits, retaining walls, and patios just to name a few. The creations that can be achieved with hardscape are endless.
Whether you already know exactly what you want to build in your backyard or not. You are going to find inspirations for your backyard that will make you want to create one at home and enjoy everyday.
After seeing these ideas, you are going to be better prepared to discuss designs and materials to use with your contractor.
This post is all about backyard hardscape ideas
1. Stacked Stone Fireplace
An outdoor fireplace made with stacked stone adds elegance to its surrounding area. Having only the fireplace with stacked stone naturally makes the fireplace as the focal point in this patio. Choose a staked stone that complements your house tones.
2. Retaining Walls
Yards with hills or slopes can be tricky for use but does not mean that it cannot look appealing. Retaining walls keep soil from eroding and then create a new level for ground for landscaping. This yard features a mixture of choice for retaining walls. The bottom wall is decorated with stone veneer whereas the the top is made with mortarless garden blocks.
3. Veneered Fireplace & Firepit
Stone veneer can either be made of natural stone or manufactured stone. This outdoor space created by Modern Landscape in So. California has stone veneer to the fireplace and fire pit to complement each other. The floor is set on pavers by ORCO pavers in the color Manor.
4. Paver Pool Deck
Pools are generally always surrounded by concrete but pavers are a great option as well. Pavers naturally offer some slip resistance. With many shapes and colors to choose from, pavers cannot be over looked for pool decks.
5. Stamped Concrete Patio
Stamped concrete has been popular for some years now thanks to its ability to imitate natural looks. Looking at this floor, one would initially think it is stone. Stamped concrete offers homeowners flexibility in the choosing colors and designs.
7. Herringbone Brick Floor
Bricks are still a sought after choice of hardscape material even after ages of use and for good reason. Bricks offer that colonial style that never goes out of style. These bricks have been laid in a herringbone pattern for this patio surrounded by a house covered in stone. The fireplace is styled with used bricks.
8. Stuccoed Seating Area
Applying stucco to cover areas such as this fire pit and seating area creates a smooth and contemporary look. This paved patio in Southern California was created by Modern Landscape. Its cool colors gives a relaxing feel, perfect for a sunny day.
9. Stamped Concrete with Bands
An enclosed patio with retractable shades allows for patios to be used with less worry of outdoor elements. For the floor, smooth bands of concrete break the stamped concrete areas to create large square patterns. The large squared stamped concrete are textured with multi colors.
10. Sunken Patio
As the name would suggest a sunken patio sits on a lower ground level. Sunken patios naturally stand out and create a sense of privacy. This patio is laid upon large slabs of stone.
11. Natural Stone Garden Walls
Garden walls are low walls that are three feet in height or less. These walls create areas for landscaping use such as gardening beds like the one pictured. These stone covered walls add dimension with it natural mixture of shapes and sizes.
12. Raised Patio
This raised patio sits on a higher ground level than the rest of the backyard. This paved patio includes an area for grilling and cooking space. The low walls also serve as a border between the two ground levels.
13. Outdoor Patio
Who said having a patio had to be just outside your back door? Patios can be uncovered and with no surrounding walls. This small paved patio is ideal for small outdoor spaces which features a fire pit decorated with ceramic tiles and topped with brick bullnose.
14. Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor kitchens are great for entertainment and cooking. Designs for an outdoor kitchen are endless from small to large like this one. This outdoor kitchen sits on travertine. The kitchen is made of stone and a marble countertop. This European inspired kitchen would not be complete without columns.
15. Flagstone Walkway
Flagstone is a natural stone that is cut into different shapes and sizes. Flagstone walkways add natural charm to landscape. Here the stones lead from the patio to the garden.
16. Courtyard
Courtyards are generally uncovered outdoor spaces. Courtyards can further be partially enclosed like this one. This courtyard by Allan Block offers an old country look with free standing low walls and a fire pit.
17. Stone Fireplace & Columns
Decorate an outdoor living space by adding stone to features like this fireplace and columns. The stone naturally draws your attention to it. This rustic covered patio surrounded by large trees in the backyard adds a feeling of warmth.
18. Top Cast Flooring
Top cast flooring has gained attention among homeowners due to its contemporary look and affordability. Top cast is a surface retarder that is applied to concrete to expose aggregate to desired depth. The exposed aggregate adds some natural slip resistance as a bonus.
19. Pond
A small pond offers a sense of tranquility and unique water feature to your yard. This simple rectangle pond is outlined with bricks. The lush background with small stones creates a small oasis.
20. Patio & Pergola
Pergolas can either be attached or detached from the house. This pergola detached from the house provides some shade with its open spaces between the beams and rafters to allow for sunshine to come through. The patio and cooking area is made of stone.
21. Garden with Rocks
Incorporate rocks of various sizes and shapes to your garden. This side garden sits on small rocks. Larger rocks create natural borders throughout the landscape for this lovely garden.
