
Whether you're a new or seasoned property owner, it can be difficult to distinguish the difference between hardscaping and landscaping. Nonetheless, it's important to be educated on the subject before hiring a landscaper in Portland, OR. By brushing up on this knowledge, homeowners and commercial property owners can be more informed on what they need from the remodeling process.
What is an example of hardscaping?
Hardscaping refers to the non-living portion of landscaping, such as a stone patio, deck, walkway, fence, gravel path, fountain, fireplace, or other feature. When planning an outdoor space, it's important to incorporate hardscaping to make the space more functional and sometimes more structurally sound. Without hardscaping, an outdoor space can be overwhelmed by plants and organic matter without any space carved out for functionality.
What is an example of landscaping?
Landscaping or softscaping refers to the living elements of an outdoor space, such as flower beds, shrubs, trees, plants, and vegetables. Landscaping can be for visual and/or functional purposes. Soft features like flowers and greenery contrast well with the hardscaping to make an outdoor space look more natural and inviting.
If you're having issues with water seeping into your basement, it may be a good idea to add shrubs that can absorb water during storms to minimize basement water seepage. In other instances, homeowners may choose to add landscaping to enhance their home's exterior design and complement their siding or entry door color.
What does hardscape look like?
Hardscape is typically a hard material that stands out in an organic setting, like a grassy backyard. Hardscaping can be visual for purposes of making a space more interesting to look at or structural to define a space or property lines. This can include:
- Concrete Patios
- Brick Walkways
- Stone or Wood Retaining Wall
- Aesthetic Wood or Stone Fencing
What is included in a landscape plan?
A landscape plan is a design for a space that includes both hardscaping and landscaping (softscaping). Throughout the remodeling process, you'll likely work with your landscaper to go over a preliminary design before adding critique and finally coming to an agreement for a finalized design. It will typically include:
- Site Plan/Blueprint
- Hardscaping and Landscaping Design
- Irrigation and Drainage Systems
- Lighting (Pathways, Spotlights, etc.)
- Material and Plant List
Work with Simple Lawns & Landscape Design for Hardscaping and Landscaping in Portland, OR
At Simple Lawns & Landscape Design, we have over 20 years of experience in the landscaping industry. We can transform your outdoor living space in Portland, OR to be more beautiful and functional.
Whether you're interested in some simple landscaping to spruce up your home's curb appeal, a full backyard remodel, or extensive commercial landscaping, we're the team to call. Contact us today for a free quote for any of our services in Portland, OR!
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