Defining OutDoor Spaces

By Samantha Robles

Segmental retaining walls are a good way to define separate spaces within one landscape. Separating the kitchen area from the pool with a low block wall provides seating opportunities and is installed without mortar. Remember, when designing a soil-reinforced canted wall such as the one in the back, always consider factors such as site, soil, loads and height of the wall. Photo courtesy of Versa Lok

With many options available for landscape perimeters on the market, here are some outdoor ?EUR??,,????'?????<

Landscape contractors often choose segmental retaining wall systems because they?EUR??,,????'?????<

This multilevel residential property seen above was enhanced by creating different outdoor rooms. Retaining walls not only defined the different spaces but also managed the elevation changes as well. The resulting outdoor ?EUR??,,????'?????<

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Protection

There are some protective fences can be used for decoration while others will keep people in or out. Other forms are used to restrict the movement of animals. However, protection can sometimes be unsightly. Knowing what use your client has for the fencing before making suggestions is important. Using chain link fencing as a barrier is open and airy, but it will allow others to see into the area even though they are not able to enter it. You will find that this type comes in a couple of different heights. You should know the height requirement as well.

If the requirement is to offer protection as well as enclosure without necessarily blocking views, a traditional wrought iron fence style can be elegant, as well as functional. Spear points across the top are traditional, but some varieties , such as Specrail?EUR??,,????'?????<

Poly based fencing gives a wood-like appearance with the characteristics of wood, but without the maintenance issues. However, watch out for quality details such as mill width and UV coatings. Be sure to purchase from a reputable dealer, otherwise these tend to be weak and/or deteriorate quickly. Photo courtesy of Filtrona Extrusion

The Old Fashioned Look of Wood

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The Illusion of Beauty

Many fences serve important purposes but, through no fault of their own, lack the charm or elegance of a stone wall or a full and vibrant hedge. Chain link and similar fences are especially prone to this problem.

Fence Fabric is a unique product using vinyl that will transform an ordinary fence into a classic stone wall, a beautiful hedge, a pristine landscape, or another high-quality design of your choice while also increasing privacy and security. These vinyl coverings, when used on chain link fences, privacy fences and other fencing materials are all durable and can whether any storm.

Fence fabrics can be installed on chain link or rod iron fencing for a whole new look, without growing real plants. It combines high-resolution images with durable outdoor materials and UV-resistant inks. The result will transform ordinary surfaces into classic stone walls, fantastic hedges or pristine landscapes that can be used for commercial as well as residential application. Photo courtesy of FenceFabric.com

Ordinances & areas with steep grades

This project required creating recreational and parking areas and needed a design solution to overcome significant elevation changes, limited accessibility and city building restrictions. Elevation variations and a 20-foot sewer easement along the property?EUR??,,????'?????<

An 11-foot grade difference between the driveway and adjoining property required a retaining wall to be built. According to a city ordinance, retaining walls had to built at least six feet away from a property line. So, be sure to check your ordinances before defining a perimeter with a retaining wall. Photo courtesy of Keystone

Living Walls

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French Botanist Patrick Blanc?EUR??,,????'?????<Photo courtesy of Filtrona Extrusion

Edible Walls

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Verticrop is a commercial high-density vertical growing system which increases production volume for field crops up to 20 times over but only requires as little as 5-percent of the normal water supply.

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