KOCHI: Hardscape refers to those elements in the landscape other than flowers, plants and trees. Common hardscape features include kerbs, patios, walkways, pebbled walks. Hardscaping is a must for a well-defined garden especially for larger areas. But the elements to be included in the hardscape feature should blend with the rest of the landscaping.
Size and proportion are the primary factors to be considered. Every hardscape element should have a function.
Unnecessary curves, shaping or fine art work must be totally avoided unless it has a specific function. This not only keeps the garden simple but saves a lot of money as well. A kerb made of cement plastering is the best example; usually there are so much of undulations and designs in the work which will have wasted a lot of man hours and cement.
And the ultimate result is a comical shape. If possible, simply build a cement kerb with neat finish. The sides may have a few simple well-planned stripes or beading which will prevent direct rain fall over the kerb or vertical places.
Forget about the material packed inside as such materials will not be visible.
Any structure which is over 20 cm high for the kerb will not look pleasing.
The best material for making the kerb is natural stone. This is readily available in the required size, is easy to work with and is comparatively cheap with low maintenance and finishing costs.
Even if it gets muddy with time, a pressure pump is enough to restore its structure and feature unlike a painted surface.
Cladding with natural stones and slabs over the brick feature is another option which will save a lot of money.
There are different varieties of cladding stones available ranging in texture and colour to match your theme.
The same rule applies to seating, walkways and statues. The purpose of statues or urns is to divert one’s attention from a point which is not so pleasing.
China clay, terracotta, wood, granite, natural stone or naturally originated material suits this purpose best.
Pebbles are another ground cover or area demarcation hardscape element, which is available in different colours, sizes and shapes. Small boulders are excellent for separating the lawn from herbs or shrubs. Synthetic pebbles are, however, not suitable for this purpose as they fade and lose their natural look in a few months’ time.
There are many options in garden furniture - in cast iron, terracotta and natural wood. The only point is to check whether they are weatherproof and made of natural materials. Afterwards you can search for matching features with the proposed garden.
subramanianm@epmltd.com