When it comes to designing an outdoor living space, it's important to understand the difference between hardscapes and softscapes. Hardscaping is the non-living elements of the landscape made of stone, bricks, concrete or metal. Softscaping, on the other hand, is composed of living elements such as soil, trees, flowers, grass, and shrubs. A well-balanced landscape design will include an attractive combination of both hard and soft landscaping elements to create a comfortable and inviting oasis. The difference between the two is quite simple.
Hardscape elements are non-living things such as pavers, rocks, concrete, fences, doors, fountains, and more. Softscape elements are living things such as grasses, flowers, vegetation covers, shrubs and trees. While hardscapes are more permanent and require professional installation, softscapes can be changed at any time. It can be as simple as planting a seedling and caring for its growth or as complex as experimenting with different landscapes from year to year. Hardscaping is a benefit for a garden because it reduces potential erosion and keeps the soil intact.
It also creates boundaries and shapes for your landscape design. On the other hand, softscaping adds dimension, functionality and improves the visual appeal of outdoor areas. With intelligent planning, even the smallest patio can be well designed and incorporate areas of hard and soft landscape. When designing your outdoor spaces, consider the differences between hardscape and softscape elements. A front yard with a lot of hard scenery could have a circular paved road, similar to a hotel.
To avoid this cold and barren environment that makes relaxation a challenge, think about incorporating at least a couple of forms of hardscape in your front and back yards. Flower pots and raised pedestals with potted gardens attract attention upwards and save space. In conclusion, both hardscape and softscape elements are essential for creating an inviting outdoor living space. While hardscapes provide structure and stability to your landscape design, softscapes add color and life to your garden. With careful planning and professional installation of hardscape elements, you can create an oasis in which to enjoy life.
