Dramatic Landscape Design Ideas That Make Use of Pillars and Walls in Hinsdale, IL
Does your Hinsdale, IL, landscape seem too flat? A few simple additions can make a huge difference in giving your landscape more visual interest and dimension. Here are some dramatic landscape design ideas that make use of pillars and walls.
A Warm Welcome
An elegant masonry driveway entrance with a pair of pillars on either side, sloping down to a lower garden wall and adorned with lights, could give your home a “gated estate” look. Pillars and/or a low wall along the walkway to your front entry are also a way to integrate landscape lighting without the need for stand-alone light fixtures. At the entry, make a statement with twin pillars to add symmetry or balance for a prominent tree, or opt for solo pillars that serve as focal points (add a gazing ball, light fixture, sculpture, potted plants, or even a small fountain for even more interest).
A Clutter-Free Outdoor Space
Solve the problem of a cluttered patio by installing low seat walls. Never again push chairs out of the way or leave guests wondering where they can sit. Seat walls along the perimeter of your patio can define the space. Look into integrating landscape lighting in an attractive way under this landscape design, and consider pillars on either end of the seating wall to serve as a place to rest a drink or plate. Seat walls are especially welcome near a grill station or outdoor kitchen, or encircling a fire feature. They make the space feel cozy, and they offer enough seating for a big backyard cookout!
If you don’t want a solid masonry seat wall around your patio, create an airier enclosure by looking into installing a series of pillars with wooden benches supported on either side by the pillars. Flat pillar caps are functional as a place for a beverage or decorative (colorful flower pots, interesting rocks, treasures from your travels, outdoor lighting).
For added drama, give thought to the installation of a series of tiny fountains in these bench pillars—just imagine the relief of its cooling effect on a hot day!
Special Effects
At night, create a dramatic light show with copper, concrete, or metal fire bowls set atop pillars. Use two to frame a view; use one as a focal point; or install several around the patio for a luxury effect.
The installation of a low wall along walkways would offer a place to rest and a way to integrate landscape lighting. Walls can encircle planting beds, create raised planting beds, serve as the base for a privacy fence.
If you want more privacy without feeling closed in, consider a tall stone veneer wall with a pump that feeds water over the top to cascade down into a pebble-filled pond. Over time, moss and aquatic plants will grow on the wall to create a gorgeous living wall with the added bonus of the tranquil sounds and movement of water (best on an east- or north-facing wall, where the plants won’t get too much sun).
Built-in planters on a masonry wall would give you a place to introduce seasonal color for an ever-changing landscape or enjoy a vertical garden filled with herbs and vegetables.
Pillars and walls vertical interest to your landscape, and offer many practical functions as well. If you’re ready to add an artistic and practical touch to your landscape this year, give us a call!
