What Is Hardscape Landscaping?

Nov 27, 2023

When it comes to enhancing the look and functionality of your outdoor spaces, landscaping plays a crucial role. While most of us think of lush green lawns and vibrant gardens, there's another essential aspect of landscaping that deserves attention—hardscape landscaping.


In this post, we'll take a look into what hardscape landscaping is, explore its elements, and discuss why partnering with a stone supply company like Grand River Stone can be a game-changer for your hardscaping projects.

what is hardscape landscaping

Defining Hardscape Landscaping

Hardscape landscaping is the process of incorporating non-living elements into your outdoor space to create a well-designed and functional environment. These non-living elements typically include materials such as stone, concrete, brick, and wood. Hardscape elements are designed to complement the softscape (living elements like plants and trees) to create a balanced and pleasing outdoor setting.


Common hardscape features include:

Patios and Walkways: Patios offer a place for relaxation and outdoor dining, while walkways connect different parts of your landscape seamlessly.


Retaining Walls: These not only provide structural support but also add dimension to your garden, creating terraced spaces for planting. The most common type of retaining wall is the gravity wall, which relies on its own weight to hold back the soil behind it. Retaining walls can be a great addition to any landscape or garden. 


Outdoor Fireplaces and Fire Pits: Perfect for cozy evenings, outdoor fire features add warmth and ambiance to your space.


Garden Borders and Edging: Neatly define garden beds and pathways, adding a polished look to your landscape.


Outdoor Steps: You can use a variety of stones to create a path down a hill to your garden, or from your patio to the yard, etc. Popular stone choices for this type of project include granite, sandstone, and limestone. 


Water Features: Adding a water feature to your outdoor space is a popular choice for many. One of the most popular ways to use stones in water features is to create a waterfall. Waterfalls can be created by stacking stones on top of each other, using mortar or concrete to secure them in place. Another way to use stones in water features is to create a fountain. Fountains can be created by placing stones around the edge of a basin, with the largest stone at the bottom.

The Benefits of Hardscape Landscaping

Why should you consider hardscape landscaping for your outdoor space? Here are some compelling reasons:


  • Durability and Low Maintenance: Hardscape materials are built to last, requiring minimal maintenance compared to traditional landscaping.
  • Increased Property Value: A well-designed hardscape can significantly enhance the value of your property, making it more appealing to potential buyers.
  • Versatility in Design: Hardscaping allows for endless design possibilities, from sleek and modern to rustic and traditional.
  • Improved Outdoor Living Spaces: Patios and outdoor kitchens create inviting areas for entertaining, dining, and relaxation.


Hardscape landscaping has the power to transform an ordinary yard into an extraordinary outdoor retreat.

Why Partner with Grand River Stone for Hardscaping

If you’re interested in exploring hardscape landscaping at your home, you might be looking where to source the best materials for your project. The same can be said for landscapers or hardscape contractors who need materials for a job. This is where the Grand River Stone team comes into play.


As a trusted stone supply company, we have the expertise, inventory, and experience you need for your hardscaping projects. Our company has a variety of natural stone products available; including landscaping boulders, granite, limestone, sandstone, gravel, and flagstone. Our products have been used for retaining walls, outdoor steps, patios, fire pits, and more! 


Grand River Stone is also proud to have our very own patented Grindstone Hardscape Solutions to get your stone cut to the specific thickness and size desired for your project.


For more information on our products or to place an order, contact us today!

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