As a proactive lakefront property owner, you understand the value of investments that not only enhance your property’s long-term financial appeal but also create a haven for relaxation and family memories. Your outdoor space, often the first impression of your lakeside retreat, holds immense potential to reflect the elegance and tranquility of your lifestyle through the thoughtful balance of hardscape and softscape elements.
At Lakescape, we specialize in crafting breathtaking landscapes that merge functionality with aesthetic brilliance, ensuring every aspect of your property is an extension of your vision.
One of the cornerstones of our landscaping philosophy lies in the integration of both elements. These two pillars of landscape design work in tandem to elevate your property’s beauty and comfort. Let’s explore how this balance transforms your outdoor environment into a luxurious retreat.
What is Hardscaping?
Hardscaping provides the structural backbone of your landscape. These non-living elements establish defined spaces, enhance accessibility, and introduce features that address practical needs like managing slopes or preventing erosion. At Lakescape, we carefully design hardscape solutions that are not only functional but also exude sophistication, blending seamlessly with your property’s natural surroundings.
Examples of Hardscape Materials:
- - Concrete
- - Brick
- - Tile
- - Loose Stone
- - Solid Stone
- - Pavers
- - Metal
Examples of Hardscape Features:
- - Patios
- - Retaining Walls
- - Walkways
- - Fountains
- - Fire Pits
- - Pergolas
- - Fences
- - Water Features
Incorporating hardscapes into your landscape benefits you in many ways. It makes your outdoor space much more functional, easy to navigate, and enhances the beauty of your property.
What is Softscaping?
Softscaping breathes life into your property. By integrating lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and carefully selected plantings, we soften the hard edges of structural elements and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Our expertise ensures that every plant is chosen for its aesthetic and functional contributions, from shade-providing trees to delicate groundcover that enhances your walkways.
Examples of Softscape Features:
- - Trees
- - Shrubs
- - Vines
- - Groundcover
- - Accent Plants
- - Flowering Plants
Softscaping is what transforms your property from barely functional to fully captivating, making it the perfect retreat for family gatherings or a quiet moment of reflection by the water.
Which is best for your property’s landscape?
When designing your property, you’re not trying to decide between hardscaping and softscaping. You’re trying to find the right balance that will meet your specific needs and vision. That being said, to help you find that balance we suggest considering three factors:
Purpose of Your Space:
- Start by identifying how you want to use your outdoor space. Think about your ideal summer day spent outside. What does that look like? What activities are you regularly engaged in? Do you need a space for entertaining or do you just want a peaceful retreat? The features you add to your design should be centered on how you want your space to serve you.
Consider Maintenance Requirements:
Hardscape elements require much less maintenance and upkeep than softscapes. Softscaping requires regular upkeep such as mowing, trimming, watering and weeding. To strike a balance, you can incorporate low-maintenance plants or invest in an irrigation system to simplify care.
Balance Aesthetics with Functionality:
A landscape that leans too heavily on hardscaping can feel cold or unwelcoming. On the other hand, one dominated by softscape features can lack structure and practicality. Carefully consider what your personal aesthetic is and how you want your outdoor space to look and feel.
You don’t have to completely overhaul your landscape all at once. You can begin with one area of your landscape such as adding a patio or retaining wall and gradually add in other features. Phased upgrades can help you manage costs and ensure a cohesive final design.
A Well Designed Landscape Uses Both!
The best landscapes will blend both hardscaping and softscaping to create outdoor spaces that are both stunning and functional. If you have questions about your landscape or want to get started transforming it, contact us today! With over 30 years of experience, our team will guide you in creating the perfect balance of both for your landscape.
