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Homes & Gardens
Homes & Gardens
Edward Bowring

7 Surprisingly Simple Architectural Garden Features Experts Say Will Give Your Backyard a Designer Feel

Colourful pots and planters with perennials planting, on the MS Amlin Peace of Mind Garden, designed by Hamzah-Adam Desai, at the RHS Chelsea Flowers Show 2025.

Hardscaping materials are a key part of garden design and support the softer elements, such as the planting and lawn. Referring to the inanimate elements that provide a function in your garden or yard, they include decking, paving, stone and gravel and can be particularly striking when used well.

But with so many architectural hardscaping materials to choose from, where do you start and which ones complement or subtract from your chosen design and style? I spoke with experts to get their advice on how to use architectural hardscaping and what type of planting they best compliment.

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