What Counts as a Hardscape? A Guide for Homeowners Planning Their Yard

When you’re planning a landscape project, you’ll often hear the term “hardscape” thrown around—but what exactly does it mean?

At Reedy River Landscapes, we guide homeowners in Greenville, SC and Asheville, NC through every stage of the design-build process, and understanding the difference between hardscape and softscape is one of the first steps to shaping a successful, functional yard.

In this guide, we’ll walk through what qualifies as a hardscape, how it complements your landscape, and what to consider when planning hardscape features for your home.

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What Is a Hardscape?

Hardscape refers to the non-living, structural elements of your outdoor space. These are the built features that give your landscape form, function, and durability—things like patios, retaining walls, and walkways.

In contrast, softscape includes the living elements: trees, shrubs, grass, flowers, and soil.

Think of hardscape as the backbone of your yard. It defines how people move through the space, where gathering happens, how water flows, and how different areas are used.

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Common Hardscape Elements

Below are the most common hardscape features we design and install for homes in Greenville and Asheville:

1. Patios

One of the most foundational hardscape elements, patios are flat surfaces designed for outdoor living. Whether made from natural stone, pavers, or concrete, they provide a clean, solid base for seating areas, outdoor kitchens, or fire pits.

2. Retaining Walls

In sloped yards (especially common in Asheville), retaining walls help prevent erosion, create usable levels, and define garden beds. They can be both functional and decorative, crafted from stone, block, or wood.

3. Walkways & Paths

Hardscape walkways guide movement through your property. We design paths to feel natural and intentional—whether it’s a formal entrance path or a meandering garden trail.

4. Driveways

A well-designed driveway is more than just a place to park—it sets the tone for your home. We often use materials like pavers or exposed aggregate concrete for added curb appeal.

5. Steps & Staircases

Transitioning between elevation changes with wide, safe, and beautiful steps is a hallmark of smart hardscaping. We often integrate lighting for safety and ambiance.

6. Fire Pits & Fireplaces

These popular gathering features create a cozy focal point for entertaining. They can be standalone or built into retaining walls and patios.

7. Outdoor Kitchens

An extension of your home, a hardscape kitchen can include countertops, appliances, seating bars, and storage—all made from weatherproof materials like stone, concrete, and stainless steel.

8. Water Features

While water may be a fluid element, the surrounding structure—a pond basin, stream edge, or fountain base—is considered a hardscape. These features blend hard and soft elements beautifully.

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Hardscape vs. Softscape: Why Both Matter

Hardscape gives structure; softscape brings life. Together, they balance your yard aesthetically and functionally.

• Hardscape sets the bones of the design: patios, edges, transitions.
  
  
• Softscape softens and fills: color, movement, seasonal interest.
  
  

We always design with both in mind. For example, a retaining wall may double as a raised planter, or a patio may include pockets for ornamental trees or grasses.

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Planning Your Hardscape: What to Consider

When we meet with homeowners, we help them think through more than just “what looks good.” Here are a few things to keep in mind when considering hardscape features:

1. Your Property’s Layout

In the mountains of Asheville or the rolling neighborhoods of Greenville, terrain matters. We consider slope, drainage, sun exposure, and access before designing hardscape features.

2. How You Want to Use the Space

Are you hosting outdoor dinners? Looking for a kid-friendly play area? Want low-maintenance curb appeal? Your lifestyle drives the hardscape layout.

3. Budget & Phasing

Hardscape can be a significant investment. We’ll work with you to prioritize elements and phase the work if needed, always keeping quality and longevity at the forefront.

4. Material Choices

From rustic fieldstone to clean concrete pavers, the material palette sets the tone for your entire landscape. We’ll guide you in selecting materials that match your aesthetic and hold up to local conditions.

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Why Hardscape Is Essential in Asheville & Greenville

In both cities, hardscaping does more than add beauty—it solves real challenges.

• In Asheville, elevation changes require thoughtful use of retaining walls, terracing, and drainage channels.
  
  
• In Greenville, clay-heavy soils benefit from well-designed grading and stable walkways to combat erosion.
  
  

Our designs are always site-specific—never cookie-cutter. We understand the challenges and opportunities of building in the Carolinas, and we approach every project with intention.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is decking considered a hardscape?
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Yes. While it’s often made of wood or composite materials, a deck is a built structure and qualifies as hardscape.

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Can I DIY my hardscape?
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Small projects like gravel walkways or simple patios can be DIYed, but structural features (like retaining walls) are best left to professionals who can ensure stability and drainage.

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How long do hardscape features last?
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With proper materials and installation, hardscaping can last decades. We design with durability in mind—especially in high-moisture and freeze-thaw zones like Asheville.

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How can I make my hardscape feel softer or more natural?
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We often blend hard edges with plantings, natural stone, or curved lines. Mixing textures, colors, and greenery creates a more inviting and organic feel.

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Bring Your Outdoor Vision to Life

Whether you’re starting fresh or refining an existing yard, understanding what counts as a hardscape is key to planning a successful outdoor transformation. At Reedy River Landscapes, we design and build outdoor spaces that last—and that feel like home.

Serving Greenville, SC and Asheville, NC with thoughtful, design-led landscaping.