The Difference between Hardscape and Softscape

There are two main components in landscape design. These two parts are Softscape and
Hardscape.

Hardscape
Hardscape are design elements that are solid and unchanging as the years go by. Softscape
are elements that are fluid and changing as they mature. The ideal landscape is a balance of
both hardscape and softscape.
Hardscape refers to the solid, hard elements in landscape design that stay the same for years.
Some examples of hardscape are rocks, walkways, retaining walls, paver patios, outdoor
kitchens, water features, decks and driveways.
While hardscape is all about brick and mortar, it is softscaping that infuses poetry in the
landscaping project. Hardscape takes care of the spaces, proportion, patios, driveways, arbors
and gates. Softscape recognizes plants, flowers, color scheme and pattern of plantation.
Hardscape includes all those installations that prevent the absorption of water, even from
natural rains or artificial sprinklers. However, in some cases, a trivial bit of water absorption is
possible. This typically includes the use of gravel and bricks that are slightly permeable.
Hardscaping is employed in the early stages of landscaping to render the area a desired shape
and add-on features. For instance, walls are erected to demarcate the property boundary and
shape, swimming pools and fountains are installed for recreation or ornamental beautification,
and can be termed as hardscape. Hardscaping protects the soil. By the construction of vertical
walls, pools, stone benches or paved walkways, the loosening and erosion of soil is considerably
curbed.

Softscape
Softscape is unlike hardscaping in that it doesn’t have that long-term or permanent quality. It is
the living animated part of a landscape. Softscape comprises the other elements such as soil,
plants, shrubs, trees, flowers, vegetables, vines, turf and color schemes.
Softscaping can be both permanent such as evergreen tress and shrubs as well as temporary,
such as seasonal plants which lend their color and character to pathways and driveways.
Planning and arrangement of these elements in an aesthetically appealing manner is the
cornerstone of effective softscaping.
Examples of softscape features include:
Grass,Trees,Shrubs,Flowers,Soil,Vegetable gardens

No landscape is complete without elements from both categories, but there are pros and cons to
think about as you find harmony in your space. First, hardscaping elements are typically much
higher in cost. And, if you need a change of scenery in a few years, you’ll need to go through the
redesign and replacing of hardscape features. Softscaping, on the other hand, is more
affordable and can be easily changed. At the same time, softscape elements require more care
and maintenance.
1.Equal Importance
The two elements—hardscape and softscape—cannot exist one without the other. They are often
compared to wall and wallpaper since both are equally important. For instance, a garden full of
paved pathways and stone figurines is of no beauty unless there is some greenery or bright flowers
to strike a contrast. Similarly, a garden full of just flowers, trees, and soil can look like a forest
rather than an elegant garden where one might enjoy a cup of tea in the evenings. There is no
single method or specific guidelines to help you get it right.

2.Purpose of Installation
Trees and shrubs are necessary to maintain the ecological balance of the natural environment.
Similarly, all the hardscape elements are not intended solely for aesthetic purposes. Rather, a
great many of these are put in for practical purposes such as prevention of excess water
absorption and to give the impression of greater space. Hardscaping methods such as installation
of paved walkways and stone benches help prevent soil erosion while fences are put in to ensure
privacy.

3.Advantages and Disadvantages

Both elements come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. The cost involved in
getting and installing hardscape elements will be relatively higher compared to their softscape
counterparts. Also, if you need a change of scenery after a few years and decide to redesign,
replacing the hardscape elements will involve greater time and effort when compared to softscape.
At the same time, since softscape elements such as plants and flowers tend to be seasonal they
may require constant maintenance. Hardscape elements are mostly minimum maintenance after
installation, irrespective of weather conditions.