The function and aesthetic of your landscape architecture is only as good as the materials used. If you’re just beginning a landscaping project or looking for a fresh new look for your Brookhaven, NY outdoor spaces, the following materials offer some fantastic options in helping you to achieve the look and feel you’re going for.
Lumber
Even with modern alternatives available for decking, lumber remains a versatile material for a great number of landscaping features. From stand alone pergolas to patio coverings, lumber is a staple for providing support to outdoor structures. The beauty of minimally treated wood provides an inviting touch to rustic and country style patios, while wooden decking is an excellent solution for extending or creating patio space on sloped yards or simply as a counterpoint to paved areas. Although lumber does require regular maintenance, its natural and characterful aesthetic remains unmatched.
Gravel
Gravel is a largely underutilized landscaping tool, used for, among other things, filling in gaps between large walkway slabs, as a covering for plant beds, as well as an alternative to traditional lawns. Gravel drains well, ensuring better drainage in areas prone to pooling. The beauty of gravel is that because it can be made from just about any natural stone or man-made substitute, the variety of colors and textures is vast. Granite, flagstone and marble are some natural stones that lend their visual properties to the different types of gravel. The coarseness of gravel affects its purpose and character, and ranges from coarse sand, to pea sized stones, to larger irregular pieces.
Natural Stone
The term natural stone covers a wide range of naturally occurring rock cut and shaped for use as a building material, veneer or paver. From hardy granite to the soft feel and luxurious look of travertine, natural stone is excellent for bringing a timeless, earthy quality to your landscape designs. With so many unique characteristics to choose from, with ranges in both aesthetic and strength, there’s sure to be a natural stone to match your requirements. Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, walkways and retaining walls can all be used to showcase the beauty of the natural stone of your choice.
Brick
Brick is still a widely used material in most aspects of construction and, even when left bare, can contribute a unique and rich aesthetic. Combined with modern features, face brick contributes to a stylish industrial look, rich in warm reds and browns. Although bricks have also traditionally been used as pavers, brick-style concrete pavers are a better option to create the same visual effect while offering better weather resistance and general durability.
Concrete Pavers
Concrete pavers and other concrete products such as veneers and coping provide an aesthetic similar to that of natural stone but with the additional capabilities and durability of dense concrete. This makes them an excellent substitute for everything from sandstone to regular bricks when deciding on driveway, walkway and patio surfacing. Their density also makes them well suited to areas of heavy vehicular traffic and around pools where they will be exposed to high levels of moisture and chemicals.