Hardscape and Softscape are integral parts of all homes. While the Softscape constitutes living things, the hardscape includes non-living things, such as brick, concrete, stone, etc. The best homes are those that are able to strike the right balance between their hardscape and softscape. While you have every reason to try and make your hardscape as splendid and impressive as it can be, you shouldn’t refrain from making it so over imposing that it completely overshadows your Softscape. Many homeowners make this same mistake — they fill their gardens with ponds and gigantic statutes that take away from a home its warmth and cozy feel and instead, give it a commercial vibe. Motorways and driveways also do the same. Thus, while hardscaping is essential, it must be done tastefully and should add to the beauty of a home and not take away from it.

What Exactly Comes Under Hardscape?

Before we can discuss how to balance the different elements in a home, it is important to understand the difference between hardscape and Softscape. The hardscape constitutes within itself anything hard and non-living that can be moved around. Pavings, stones, and gravel are some of the common hardscaping elements. Different hardscaping elements serve different purposes. For instance, pavements, stones, and porous materials are often added to homes to prevent runoffs as they do an excellent job of absorbing the excess water. Other hardscaping elements, such as decks, gazebos, patios, driveways, and outdoor kitchens not only serve utilitarian functions but also add to a home’s aesthetic appeal.

And, What Falls Under Softscape?

Softscape elements include living objects that are soft to touch. Examples include flowers, trees, shrubs, etc. Since softscape elements include living objects, they need more care than your home’s hardscape components. More importantly, most of the different Softscape elements, such as flowers and trees, are available in different colors, shapes, and sizes and thus, homeowners often have a variety of options to choose from.

Tips on How to Incorporate Hardscape and Softscape Features into Your Home

Here are some tips you can follow to create the right balance between your hardscape and softscape elements.

  • If you have a small home, you can create the illusion of space by creating layers using pedestals and container gardens. In terms of hardscaping elements, the use of retaining walls is recommended as they create space.
  • If you live in an area where water shortage is a continual problem, it is better to beautify your outdoor space with the help of hardscaping elements instead of Softscape features. In such areas, the use of Softscape elements should be avoided. Replace grass with concrete or brick pavers. Add a small statue as the centerpiece. If you want to use plants, invest in drought-resistant plants that do not require too much water.

Key Takeaways

If you want your home to truly stand out, take some time out to plan how you will balance the hardscape and Softscape elements in your outdoor space. The elements you choose to include in your garden should go well with the weather and soil conditions in your area. If you are unsure of what features and additions will look good in your garden or outdoor space, do not hesitate to take the help of an expert. With their years of experience in the field, professionals usually have a good idea about what will look good and what won’t.

Please feel free to give Sinacori Landscaping a call! We can be reached at 248-651-5400 and are located in Shelby Twp, MI!  We hope to have the opportunity to work with you soon!