Changing with the season, hardscapes

In  a climate where so much of our landscape goes dormant for several months each year, we like to place special emphasis on elements that continue to give pleasure when nothing is in bloom.  While through the first three seasons there is a strong emphasis on the living plant materials; emerging in spring, blooming in summer, the subtle fade to fall and it’s amazing colors.  The winter months leave us with only the plants remaining structure or architecture.  And this is why we love to paint the landscapes with stone.

Stonework imparts stability, structure, variety and color to a finished landscape year round.  In the summer months, stone pathways guide visitors through the garden to clusters of lush blooms.  In the spring and fall, stone waterfalls and rock gardens complement emerging greens and changing fall colors.  And in winter, steps and walls add texture and interest to the snowy landscape.

As you consider your dream landscape, think about how stone can help bring it to life. The materials available and how they are used make the options virtually endless.  Carefully cut bluestone has a warm, polished sophistication.  Rough, irregular Lannonstone form weathered, ancient looking steps and walls.  Flagstone can seem to have emerged from the grass naturally, suggesting an English cottage or French countryside feel.

We are only limited by our imagination. Something as simple as a stone bench, while clearly offering a value in summer months, takes on a new life as a sculpture when covered in snow.