Examples of Masonry Landscaping

Retaining Walls

• Retaining walls are built to stabilize slopes and protect areas from erosion. They also are used to create pathways, group plants, add depth and texture to a garden and create outdoor rooms. Retaining walls may be built from stacked or decorative blocks, poured concrete and stone.

Patios

• Patios add living space to the landscape and serve as a reminder that a home does not end or begin at the door. They are used for entertaining and to seek solace. Patios are commonly made from poured concrete or brick, but slate and rock patios are gaining popularity.

Walkways

• Walkways, or paths, ease movement within a landscape. A well-planned path leads through the landscape without excessive wandering. Traffic and use dictate the width of a walkway. Frequently used paths should be wider than less traveled routes. If stairs will be incorporated into a path, spacing the stair steps evenly prevents tripping hazards. Poured concrete paths are popular, but walkways also are fashioned from slate, brick and stone.

Fountains, Ponds and Waterfalls

• Water features such as fountains, ponds and waterfalls bring sound and movement to a landscape. They also add beauty, attract wildlife, cool the area and bring about a sense of serenity. Water features can be made from natural materials such as rock, stone and slate or from poured concrete. The overall size of the landscape determines the size of water elements. Tabletop fountains or wall-mounted waterfalls work best in small areas, while larger areas can be home to ponds, pools and rising jet fountains.

Fireplaces and Fire Pits

• Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits increase outdoor entertaining possibilities. In cool climates, they may extend the outdoor entertaining season into the winter months. They also add warmth and beauty to a landscape. A well-built fireplace or fire pit must be properly ventilated, weather-resistant and made of sturdy materials. While brick is the most popular material for building outdoor fireplaces, stone and concrete are becoming popular choices.

Decorative Accents

• Decorative accents bring additional beauty and interest to a landscape. They may be as simple as a special stone or as elaborate as a sculpted marble angel. Decorative accents should add beauty without overpowering the landscape. The overall size of the landscape dictates which decorative accents should be used. A garden gnome adds charm to a small flowerbed, and a life-size bust lends a regal air to a formal garden.

Benefits

• Masonry landscaping offers many benefits to a homeowner. The elements can provide long-lasting, low-maintenance beauty. They offer weather resistance, fire protection and energy efficiency. Hardscaping can conceal flaws and offer privacy. The most important benefit of masonry landscaping is its value; it may increase a home's resale value by as much as 15 percent.