Five Key Differences Between Hardscape and Softscape: All You Need To Know
Having a beautiful garden and backyard is on everyone’s wish list. Human enjoyment is complex because everyone likes different elements in their garden. It requires you to hire a landscape architect, and then a landscape contractor works on turning your dream garden or backyard into a living reality by following the designs of the architect. There is a whole process to follow just to satisfy different clients.
Since we all have different choices, the landscape architect ensures that the design matches your vision. So, the Hardscape and Softscape will be different too. Wait a minute! What is it that you just saw? What are hardscapes and softscapes?
Now that you’ve landed on this page let us share the difference between the two before you hire a landscape contractor in Sacramento. Dive into the article to find the differences, and then make a decision.
Outdoor Spaces are a Mixture of Hardscapes and Softscapes
Your outdoor space is a mix of hardscapes and soft scape elements. Hardscape is all the non-living things, such as pebbles, fountains, rocks, concrete, fences, and gates. So, when you meet a landscape designer, ask them to include a fountain or water body feature in your garden. They will let you know all the Hardscape elements that can be used in your dream backyard.
They will ask you what you want to add and give choices in the different types of materials.
For example, the fencing material and the color that you want. All that is your decision, but a landscape designer designs it on paper after hearing your vision.
The contractor’s job is to hire subcontractors and ensure that the construction process starts immediately and the vision becomes a living reality. You can easily hire landscape contractors for this job and get your dream garden.
Besides hardscapes, softscape are all living things such as trees, flowers, grass, shrubs, etc. These are important elements in a garden or any outdoor space. These add beauty to your garden space. For example, the space gets some color and brightness. Imagine a garden without greenery – it will be as good as a desert. Thus, adding a softscape is as important.
The Difference Between Hardscape and Softscape
Striking a balance between hardscape and soft scape is crucial. That’s why a landscape architect and a contractor would be needed because they know all about the materials, different plants, trees, and what is allowed in your area.
Now, let’s take a quick look at the differences between the two.
- Hardscapeis more permanent because these are rigid structures and do not wear off easily. Some materials last longer than others, but these are non-living objects, so there is no scope for drying or spoiling. The biggest benefit is these structures or elements don’t need changing for a long time. If you are happy with the fountain or the fence, they will last very long. In case your preferences change, you can give your garden a revamp.
- Soft scapes are easier to replace or change because you can remove the plants, trees, and flowers and place new ones as the season changes. Speak to the landscape architect about the apt plants and trees for your area and the temperature in the region. You can change the look of your garden simply by changing the flowers and trees in the space. This way, homeowners enjoy different looks every season. But please remember that the contractor and architect are not responsible for pruning, mowing, or gardening. One is responsible for designing, and the other is responsible for bringing the garden design to life. So, you would need a separate gardener to maintain the lawn.
- Softscape requires a lot of maintenance. You can ask the landscape architect about plants that thrive with minimal water and extreme temperatures. There are drought-resistant plants, too, which a landscape architect knows about.
- Hardscapes allow people to gather and celebrate. For example, paths and patios are places where people socialize and gather. This is an important aspect of an outdoor space. Even when you go to a public park, it has benches and gazebos to sit. Your garden is also a place you can sit and relax. It can be the place where you hold BBQ Sundays!
- Softscapes and hardscapes can work together beautifully. You need both to create a mood and a space that fits the whole family.
Summing up
Now that you understand the difference between the two, consider hiring a landscape architect and a contractor to work on the design. You will decide most things – after all, it’s your garden!