The non-living elements of a landscape, including paths, patios, walls, fences, decks, and other built structures that provide function and visual structure to a garden.
Hardscape is everything in a landscape that is built rather than planted.
While plants create the living portion of a garden, hardscape provides the framework that organizes and supports the space. Paths guide movement, patios create gathering areas, walls define boundaries, and structures add height and visual interest.
A well-designed landscape combines hardscape and plants to create a space that is both functional and attractive.
Hardscape improves accessibility, defines garden spaces, and creates year-round structure even when plants are dormant. It also helps manage traffic flow, reduce soil compaction, and connect different parts of the landscape.