8 Hardscapes
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Transcript of 8 Hardscapes
LANDSCAPE
DESIGN Lecture # 8
Ar. Samrana Qureshi
FEATURES OF
LANDSCAPE Hardscapes
LANDSCAPE FEATURES Soft Landscaping Elements
Comprise elements of ecological sequence or all living things in gardens/parks
Includes: Earth moving and soil enhancement, planting, shrubs, semi mature trees, seeding and turfing, mulching and use of aquatic animals etc
Hard Landscaping Elements Comprise features created through construction
materials
Includes: Patios, paths/ pavings, driveways, retaining walls, fences, gazebos, pots/planters, water features, garden/street furniture, lighting, and sculptures etc
Fences/Walls
Fixed & non-growing element of landscape
Two primary functions: Security & Privacy
Incorporated to provide enclosures, to provide privacy, articulate a space, act as retaining elements against erosion and stabilizing a slope, and to separate walkways from the planting areas and lawn spaces.
Brick, classic cut stone, concrete, wood and metal grills, glass blocks, reinforced earth blocks, mortar-less stackable concrete blocks are the materials most commonly used.
The height and type of fence/wall may vary with its use in overall design concept of the project. They may be at seating height or up to 1.8m or more in height to provide privacy.
Fences are installed according to the theme of architectural design e.g wrought iron fence for spanish colonial architecture etc
If used properly, the fencing can provide sound insulation, and create microclimate by directing wind and sunlight.
Retaining walls may be provided depending on the site conditions.
Types
Wooden Fences: Provides endless possibilities of design
Provides traditional view
Ensures privacy
Reduces noise
May not be cost effective everywhere due to availability of wood or high maintenance cost
Vinyl (PVC) fences: Cost effective for large properties
Requires least maintenance measures
Doesn’t warp or split
Can be painted
Becomes brittle in winters and may not be used for areas with extreme winter season
Types Metal Fences:
Generally made of iron or other materials
Most commonly used for providing security Chain link fence is the least expensive security fence Transparent fences are preferred in areas requiring security
measures & minimum height required is six feet
Green Fences: Comprise hedges, dense shrubs, and small trees (Lecture 3)
Sound Deadening Fences: Required for areas near highways Include materials with more mass to buffer or dampen the sound Comprise masonry and wooden fences Commercially manufactured double-paneled fencing are
available Plants and trees can be used in combination
Types Retaining Walls (Adapted as fences)
Conventional block walls One of the core building materials Solid & Stable, provided for permanence Needs little or no maintenance Economical Architecturally attractive & traditional
Mortar-less & dry-stacked concrete Most commonly used building material due to easy installation
and speedy construction Fits & aligns itself due to vertical interlocking tabs Add tones and textures than conventional blocks Larger and heavier than conventional and hence expensive but
advantage to be dissembled and moved
Retaining Walls (Adapted as fences)
Wooden retaining walls Gives attractive and organic look
Easy to use
Limitation of use in moisture & insects/termite protection
Requires treatment for strength & hardiness
Reinforced earth walls Depending on the soil type different methods are used
Using alternate layers of welded wire matting with layers of compacted earth
Using concrete crib walls, made of latticework of concrete elements and filled with earth
Provides advantage of achieving greater heights that a single system would allow
Wooden fence around a Garden The fence effectively blocks the view of this pool apparatus. Privacy to this conversation area of the patio is provided by the lattice fencing that encircles it.
This architectural use of enclosure combines solid columns
and spans of trellis with containerized plant materials.
Attractive block and complementary plantings combine
to provide a beautiful landscaped border design.
This substantial concrete brick retaining
wall incorporates design details and hues
that work to refine and distinguish it. The
hedge serves to further soften the looks Stackable block can be quite attractive as
well as effective and fairly quick to install The retaining wall supports the slope while providing
space for plant installation. Timber retaining walls help stabilize this steep slope
This white picket fence is a thematic match for the early
American home that it adjoins.
The use of the same
materials in the
house, the
walls, and the
pavement creates a
simple and unified
design. Stone Fence: Made of River Rock Concrete Crib Walls
Paths/Walkways/Paving
Stones Paths & walkways give access to built up areas
and allow users to enjoy the surroundings From ancient times pavements have been
created by concrete, stones, brick and wood, which have been added with various new/adapted synthetic materials due to environmental economic & legal concerns
Selection of materials for pavement would depend in function, cost, availability and theme of construction
While creating the walkways/paths, it should be considered what kind of users and how much foot traffic would be expected.
Width and compatibility of the path also depends on the use and foot traffic
In hilly or sloping areas, the walkways should be provided with easy to climb steps and edging may be provided to provide strength to the pavement & steps
Small paths and paved areas may be created to develop interesting landscape areas using benches, planters and paving materials
Curved and meandering paths can add sense of mystery to design
The walkways and paths should be created in level with surrounding terrain for easy mowing and ensuring safe footing
Transitions between steps should be well spaced
Materials for paving should be selected in such a way that it avoids tripping and slipping especially when wet
Sufficient but not glaring light should be provided to guide users while walking at night
Longer flight of steps should be provided with guiding rail.
Paths/Walkways/Paving Stones—
Reinvented Materials
Traditional clay bricks give pleasing appearance but fails in supporting weight of some modern vehicles, hence not recommended for porches
Similar look and texture as well as required strength can be achieved through concrete pavers in different shapes and colors
Mosaic pavement patterns created in the past with stones can be created by cubicle pavers
Concrete has been reinvented in other forms as well such as stepping stones, retaining walls, decking and paving stones, curb stones
Rubber is another product used in landscaping as shock absorber in play grounds
Rubber tiles are also used where containment is required, also because they do not attract molds and insects and permit easy wheel chair use
Wood lumber is popularly used material for creating decks. Various other wood & plastic composite and wood free plastics are also available for the same.
Artificially prepare synthetic materials are in the market for that do not mold, rot or weather over time & are preferable for landscaping
Slate, popular for
walkways, works
well here in
combination with
other materials to
help create stairs
and a mortar-less
terraced front walk
for a rustic setting.
Walkway alcove is the perfect
setting for a secluded moment. Granite cubes can be used like mosaic tiles to create rich pavement patterns Colored concrete
Stamped concrete.
Fauxcrete: made to
look like quarried stone.
Fauxcrete: made
to look like cobblestone.
Rubber tiles
ensure a safer
tumble to the
ground for
youngsters at this
playground.
Close-up of the
rubber tiles.
Stepping stones must
be large
enough to fit the
users feet and be
spaced so they
permit a natural
stride pattern.
Patios/Decks/Arbors/Pergolas Decks are exterior floored area, usually higher than
surroundings created for inviting the users to stay for sometime as opposite to paths/walkways that allow the users to walk only
Decks allow the users to enjoy the greenery in the surrounding
Decks that are well built are quite durable. Usually they are built with concrete bases
Patios or outdoor rooms are developed in countries with hot climates for enjoying cool evening outdoors e.g. Spain, Mexico and Latin America.
Patios can be fit in with fireplaces, ovens, benches and other furniture
Redwood, Cedar Heartwood, and Plastic (Vinyl & poly deck lumber) are commonly used materials for constructing Decks with weather and water proofing preservatives
Trellises, Arbors, and Pergolas can be used to add shape and perspective to landscaped areas
Arbors, pergolas and trellises provide a natural habitat for climbers and creepers.
A gateway arch, either single or lattice like structure is called arbor, very commonly used for framing a path
Pergolas of different shapes are created by connecting arbors from above and decorated with climbers
Trellises are created with interwoven wood, bamboo or metal
Trellises create secluded and private places especially constructed in backyards or patios
Like arbors and pergolas, trellises are also liked by climbers and creepers due to their closely spaced lattice strips
Pavilions or kiosks called gazebos, ornamental or otherwise add to the beauty of landscaping
Gazebos serve as protection from sun and rain and are popular in warm areas
Synthetic wood decking resists weathering, pests, and mildew Deck separating pool from building An engineered concrete river rock wall brings rustic charm to a hillside
home,while a vine-trained trellis adds to the privacy of the inner garden. Arbor Gates Another way of providing arbors with pergolas
Roses along a trellis, Interbay P-Patch (community
garden), Interbay neighborhood, Seattle, Washington A trellis supports speakers at Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Viewed from rear! A Typical Gazebo
Rockery & Sculptures
Rockeries play a great role in giving grace to the landscape design.
Rockeries are sometimes added a corner elements and in combination with water bodies, where used extravagantly are called as rock gardens.
Sculptures or three-dimensional monumental objects are important element of outdoor art, often used with water bodies.
Abstract forms are also created for the same purpose.
Rockery & Sculptures
Rockeries play a great role in giving grace to the landscape design.
Rockeries are sometimes added a corner elements and in combination with water bodies, where used extravagantly are called as rock gardens.
Sculptures or three-dimensional monumental objects are important element of outdoor art, often used with water bodies.
Abstract forms are also created for the same purpose
Outdoor Furniture
Furniture and fixtures designed to be provided for streets and gardens not only is crucial for fulfilling the function for which the landscape is developed but also adds value to the landscape design quality
Outdoor furniture includes benches, chairs, tables, dumpsters, Street lights, lighting fixtures etc
The uses of
synthetic
material assures
that this
built-in bench will outlast one built
from even the
most durable
wood.
Sculptural Furniture Waste Bin, Wallingford Castle Gardens
Outdoor fireplaces & kitchens
Fire pits, outdoor grills and barbecues extend use of outdoor landscape areas
Design and décor or fireplaces include use of tiles, concrete, stone, stucco and firebricks
If the landscape design also includes a pool or a spa, outdoor kitchen may be designed near it for allowing use of both.
Climate, foliage and available space in the outdoors determines which fuel will work best
The fire pit should be placed away from structures and fire hazards
Fire pits and fireplaces should be in harmony with surrounding architecture
Fire it should be located such that it becomes effective outside light source
Fire pit elements should be sturdy and weather resistant and designed that is not affected by the prevailing wind direction
Fire pits and fireplaces should be designed visible from living room
Mobile fire pits with detachable fittings and handles are preferable
Special consideration may be given to heavier foundation for fire pits and fireplaces, especially in seismic areas
Emissions from the fireplaces need to be controlled especially with respect to the city rules & regulations regarding outdoor fire places
In most of areas, low-emission type closed system fireplaces meet the urban emission laws
In most cases, property value goes up with provision of outdoor fireplaces & grills
An outdoor barbecue area shaded with pergolas Portable grill with antique wheelbarrow
features can handle a large gathering.
Lighting Illumination or lighting creates appealing nightscapes in
addition to its primary function of providing safety & security
Energy efficient lighting technologies have emerged and commonly used for lighting nightscapes
While designing a lighting plan, consideration is to be given to both effect and fixture
With respect to features, various eye catchers are available in the market
While designing a lighting plan, it would be required to understand the character of architecture, needs of clients, amount of light, nature of area (dangerous etc), and what features to light
Various ways of lighting includes up-lighting, down-lighting, back lighting, path –lighting, & Shadow lighting
A rustic rock post topped with a Crafts-looking lantern
serves to light the entry of a wooded driveway.
Incorporated into the
walkway design, this
internal post lighting is an
effective
welcoming "beacon," and
serves to illuminate the
address and path to the
front
door.
Incorporated into a two-board wood fence design, concrete columns made to
look like rock are topped with coach lights, lending a refined country appeal to
the paver-laid driveway approach.
Tasteful night lighting can create a new and different
landscape during the evening hours, or extend the use and
appreciation of the daytime design.
Drainage
Drainage for storm water may be planned in an integrated manner with the pavement to become pleasing to eyes.
Precast concrete grates can be used around trees so that they look aesthetically pleasing and also allow water to be absorbed by the trees.
Metal Grating Cover for Drainage
Selection criteria for
hardscapes Considerations to be kept in mind while selecting elements & materials for hardscapes
Function: The hardscape elements are selected for functions
e.g. Securing children’s play yard
Containing a pet
Blocking view from outside
Protecting from sun, wind and rain etc.
Providing privacy
Improving aesthetics
Cost:
This includes initial investments for materials as well as design cost, labor cost & maintenance cost
This also requires taking into consideration that high initial cost of materials may have lower maintenance cost and vice versa
Strength:
The selection of surfacing as well as enclosing materials have to be assessed and taken into consideration while selecting
Weather Effects: Characteristics of the materials should be assessed according to their behavior towards weather, climate and region’s other ecological conditions
Client Preference: The selection of material depends on choice of
the clients but they need to be advised professionally
The clients should be briefed about the availability of various choices, brands and their comparative analyses with respect to the cost and characteristics
Integration with other components: It is important to select the elements and materials consistent in style and scheme for creating a harmonious landscape design
Maintenance concerns: Keeping in mind maintenance cost of materials is
the most important consideration especially with respect to the cost of landscaping
This concerns requires consideration for selection of both elements and materials e.g. choosing water bodies in areas deficient in water, or choosing turf grass for heavy foot traffic area