Hardscape Trends For 2024
Some trends that have been gaining momentum in recent years. Sustainable landscaping has gained steam, however, when people see what sustainable landscaping looks like they tend to not like the aesthetic. In Seattle, recycling broken concrete to use as a retaining wall is a popular sustainable landscaping practice (see Ravenna and the U district). However, this ends up making your yard look like a garbage site. Their are better ways contractors can recycle concrete, as a contractor I can take my demoed concrete to an approved recycling site and it can be crushed and reused. This is a better way to practice sustainable landscaping. Back to the point of the article, below are some 2024 hardscape trends:
Native Plantings: Using plants and shrubs that are native to the Pacific Northwest. Lower maintenance and more likely to survive.
Minimalism: Clean lines, simple shapes, and a focus on functionality characterize minimalist hardscape designs.
Mixed Materials: Combining different textures and materials, such as stone, wood, metal, and concrete, to create visually interesting and dynamic outdoor spaces.
Outdoor Living Spaces: Creating seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor areas with features like outdoor kitchens, fire pits, seating areas, and pergolas.
Biophilic Design: Incorporating elements of nature into hardscape designs to promote health and well-being, such as green walls, living roofs, and natural water features.
Smart Technology Integration: Incorporating smart irrigation systems, outdoor lighting controls, and other technological features to enhance convenience and efficiency in hardscape designs.