If you are struggling with drainage issues in your Cambridge, MA, yard, or there is a slope in the exact place that you want to have a patio, a beautiful stone retaining wall can be the solution. These wall ideas can give you a more eco-friendly landscape design.
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Functions of a Retaining Wall
When you want to define a specific part of your landscape, but the natural terrain does not lend itself to what you have in mind, a retaining wall can help you accomplish a different purpose. A well-designed retaining wall can protect the soil from eroding from a hill to eliminate the mess and dirt a storm can bring to your landscape.
When added to a patio or outdoor kitchen or fire feature, a low retaining wall can provide more seating for guests and function as an extra table for a drink station while increasing the privacy of the space.
Ideas for Retaining Walls
Wall for a Hill: If you have a hill in your yard that is stressful to mow and keep looking nice, consider a retaining wall situated at the base of the hill to give you a space for a patio or another outdoor feature. Because a wall at a hill is intended to hold back the heavy dirt, it will not be designed to be purely decorative but functional, too. This does not mean it cannot be beautiful; your landscape specialist can help you select the stone or brick to complement the exterior colors of your home as well as enhance the style. A plan that includes wide, deep stone steps can give you access to the top of the slope for a garden, play area for the kids, or anything you want in your yard.
Tiered Retaining Wall: Consider a tiered retaining wall a chance to plant all of the things you have wanted but never had space for. Consisting of two or three smaller retaining walls, a tiered wall has levels that can provide space for flowers, selected shrubs that make your landscape dazzle in the spring and summer, and space to set up appetizers and drinks for a larger crowd. Each tier can be composed of the same stone with contrasting banding tying the walls together, or you can get creative and plan a wall with your landscaper that is totally unique to your property.
Transitional Wall: In some landscapes, there can be a slope from the garage or patio where landscaping can be unsuccessful, washing away with the first storm. A transitional retaining wall can solve the problem of eroding plants and mulch by forming a strong barrier. Not only will the stone or brick bring a definite edge that keeps the mess out of your landscape, but it also can look so pretty with the flowers and shrubs that bring green and living accents. Adding landscape lighting to this wall can help the visibility at night and increase curb appeal after dark.
Eco-Friendly
A retaining wall can be one of the best eco-friendly investments in your landscape as the materials can be natural and function to prevent erosion. Durable, plant-able, and sometimes recycled, retaining wall materials can make your yard look lovely while also bringing a positive benefit to the environment.
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