Masonry adds dimension and interest to your landscape. And masonry creates elements that are not only practical, but beautiful. Here are some design tips for creating focal features using masonry in Huntington, NY.
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A focal point is something that the eye is drawn to, almost magnetically. It doesn’t have to be large, but it is ideally positioned in such a way that the object stands out from its surroundings. Focal points can include water, trees, pergolas, outdoor kitchens, or any number of masonry features.
Fire Features
One of the most delightful focal points in the backyard is the anchor for a cozy gathering spot: a fire pit, a fire table, or an outdoor fireplace. Whichever style you choose, fire features instantly transform outdoor spaces into spaces that have the creature comforts and beauty of your indoor spaces. All three of these structures can be made with a masonry veneer that complements the rest of the hardscape as well as the home.
But you don’t have to stop at fire features that are designed for fun times with friends and family. You can create a stunning effect with fire bowls set atop masonry pillars or a combination of water/fire. Either way, you won’t want to look away from the mesmerizing dance of the flames!
Water Features
Waterfalls, fountains, reflecting pools, and water walls can feature a masonry backdrop that makes them attractive focal points even when they’re turned off for the season. In fact, as icicles form on masonry water features, they take on a wonderfully unique seasonal beauty.
Walls, Steps, Pillars, and Planters
When most people think of masonry in a landscape, they probably think of retaining walls and, on steep slopes, a series of terraces. Terraces allow for unique gardening experience, and they present an amazing way to create usable space on a property that would otherwise offer very little in the way of places to relax and entertain. Get creative by adding water features, niches for art, built-in seating, and built-in lighting for a dramatic effect.
Even a flat landscape can benefit from walls that define a driveway or front-entry walkway. Create a relaxed meandering walkway and tuck it close in to the home using a low wall.
Pillars finish the look of a wall, and they can also be stand-alone features to house light fixtures or support potted plants or statues. Twin pillars at the end of the driveway give your home an elegant “estate” look. Create symmetry at your front entry with matching pillars, or go for a dramatic look with just one pillar with a garden sculpture or fountain.
Seat walls are particularly useful when they flank a fireplace, encircle a fire pit, or are placed adjacent to a kitchen for overflow party seating. Giving your patio a “hug” by encircling it with a seat wall helps create a cozy ambience, a clutter-free space, and an opportunity to integrate attractive landscape lighting.
Raised masonry planting beds are convenient. With a wide enough cap stone, they can serve double duty as places to sit. Place a raised planter near your outdoor kitchen for easy access to fresh herbs and veggies; create a mini-garden just for the kids; and in winter, fill raised planters with seasonal and holiday decorations to keep the mood festive year-round.
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