Patio and Outdoor Hardscape Design
Whether you have a very large area, or relatively small area outside your home to work with, remodeling your existing patio area, or building an entirely new hardscape area can be both beautiful and functional for years to come. Hardscapes invite you to break away from the busy pressures of the working world, offering a retreat to the outdoors, now and in the future, while also creating additional functional space for your and your family.
You'll want to determine the ideal location(s). Traditionally, hardscape areas are located at the rear of the house where there is usually the most privacy. However, contemporary designs are also including front patio areas to make the entrance of the home more inviting, as well as providing additional spill-over space for gatherings with large numbers of guests. Don't forget about side yard walkways that can utilize otherwise wasted lawn space, to further expand the outdoor experience.
Start your design with the overall desired theme of your project. That includes the location, preferred colors and texture of materials, and the overall shape and size.
Be sure to allow enough room to accommodate your lifestyle needs. For example: Dining areas for four take up about 10' x 10' of space, areas to accommodate for eight can take up 12' x 12' of space. Take into consideration the shape of the table, whether rectangular, round, or square. Passageways should be at least 3-1/2' to 4', or wider, based upon individual needs or preferences.
There are other factors in the proper sizing of your hardscape, so you'll want allow for ample spacing for permanent, eye-catching features as well as mobile furnishings and features. Some examples might include: a fireplace or fire pit, existing or future pool, existing or future water pond, recirculating water fountains, hot tubs, outdoor buildings, flower beds or islands. Additional items might include: outdoor swings or hammocks, lounge chairs, tables, planters for flowers and/or herbs, grilling areas, canopies, and the list can go on and on to include anything that suits your lifestyle.
The most common materials of modern hardscapes are made of stone and pavers.
STONE: comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Flagstone is one of the best materials for patios, mostly due to its narrow packed joints, and that it will allow the water to permeate instead of running off. The most common types of flagstone used for patios are sandstone, limestone, and slate.
PAVERS: Pavers are widely popular due to the low cost, array of sizes, colors, and shapes, as well as being relatively easy to install. Patio pavers are made of concrete, brick or stone, and can be laid in very beautiful, striking patterns. Brick pavers range in shade from burgundy to white. Bricks should be selected to allow for the proper climate rating in the region of its installation. Concrete pavers are very versatile, with an endless variety of shapes and sizes. These pavers can be colored to look like brick or flagstone, but less costly.
Finally, the pattern of your hardscape can be designed. The most popular patterns are the circular pattern, the herringbone pattern, the basket weave pattern, and the running bond pattern. Your design can include multiple patterns or just a single pattern.
Circular Pattern
This pattern uses pavers in circular formed rows. This pattern is often used with other patterns, and is not always used in full circle shapes. Often ½ or ¼ circles are intertwined with herringbone, basket weave, and running bond patterns, breaking up large patio or driveway areas while adding complementing elements to the hardscape area.
Herringbone Pattern
Pavers are laid in alternating directions creating a “V” shape. This pattern is usually laid at 45 or 90 degrees, and used in large to medium sized areas.
Basket Weave Pattern
Pavers alternate between horizontal and vertical pairs, creating rows and columns that have an eye-catching effect. This pattern originates from old English landscape design, and brings a vintage look to the hardscape area.
Running Bond Pattern
This is the most common pattern used mostly due to its ease of installation. Pavers are laid side by side in offset positions creating illusions with strong linear lines. This design is perfect for making small areas appear larger.
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