Landscape Aesthetics Part 1

Landscape Ingredients

The best part about hiring a landscape designer is that they have years and years of experience to support your desire to revamp your outdoor spaces. Surely you have some ideas of your own, but maybe you’re unsure of landscaping terminology. Let’s go over some of the most common landscape “ingredients” you’ll find in our designs.

All photos credit of NPL


Patios – These leveled areas are perfect for dining, entertaining, or sitting around a fire pit. They are extremely versatile, with endless options of materials and designs. These can be placed just about anywhere in your yard- right out the back door for easy outdoor dining or tucked in a back corner for some extra peace and quiet; the possibilities are limitless.

Common materials: stone, brick, concrete, gravel, pavers

Retaining Walls and Seat Walls – these structures hold back soil in landscapes with large grade changes or act as built-in planters and benches. Looking for additional seating or a refined raised veggie garden? We can make it happen!

Common materials: stone, concrete blocks, timbers

Walkways – paths that guide movement through your outdoor space. This could be anything from a grand front entrance to a meandering stepstone path. Curate your guests’ experience with a thoughtfully designed jaunt through a lush landscape or make it as easy as possible to move between spaces, all easily done with a variety of styles and materials.

Common materials: gravel, pavers, flagstone, concrete

Outdoor Kitchens – Outdoor counter space that can include a built-in grill or slots for existing appliances, cabinets, sinks, fridges, pizza ovens, smokers, and more. Outdoor kitchens are extremely customizable and a must-have for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

Common materials: concrete pavers, brick, natural stone

Pergolas and Arbors – These provide shade, define spaces, and can be supports for climbing plants. Whether you’re looking for a traditional, simple wooden pergola or a luxury louvered pergola with heaters and TVs, these shade structures are ideal for entertaining and relaxing. 

Common materials: wood, metal, vinyl

Water Features – Waterfalls, fountains, and ponds add an element of serenity in any outdoor space. With countless pre-fabricated fountains or entirely custom-designed ponds, you can easily add the peaceful sound and movement of water to your landscape.

Common materials: concrete, natural stone

Fire Pits – Outdoor fire features are a great way to extend the usability of your yard into the cooler seasons. Wood-burning or gas-fueled and found in all sorts of shapes and sizes, these are a great focal point and gathering space.

Common materials: stone, brick, metal

Trellises and Privacy Panels – An easy and elegant solution for separating spaces or creating privacy. These can support vining plants, act as AC unit screening, and come in a variety of forms, both pre-made and hand-crafted.

Common materials: wood, composite, vinyl

Planters – Whether you’re looking to add pops of color or an elevated space for veggies, planters are an important addition to every yard!

Common materials: wood, steel, fiberglass, concrete


Now that you’re armed with some vocabulary, reach out to our designers today to make your dream outdoor space a reality!

Part Two coming soon, where you can learn all about garden styles and what might complement your home best!