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Oftentimes to steep incline in your yard can render your green space problematic or even unusable. Retaining walls have long been a fundamental element in solving inclines in commercial and residential construction.

 A retaining wall is a hardscape structure that holds earth behind it and makes steep grades more passable. Retaining walls have been used for centuries to improve the usefulness of outdoor spaces. One of the primary functions of a retaining wall is to transform a sloped yard into a level, usable space. This makes room for building patios, driveways, raised beds, and other structures. You can also use retaining walls for terracing. Terracing slows down soil erosion and makes a steep yard easier and less expensive to maintain. A flat patch of grass is always easier to mow than a hill.

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The Functions of a Retaining Wall

The most basic function of a retaining wall is to battle gravity; The lateral force of the slope must be offset in the retaining wall’s design. Retaining walls can also:

  • Provide usable land.
  • Manage water runoff.
  • Provide extra seating.

Retaining Wall Ideas And Tips:

Landscape Design terraced retaining wall

 

Create Beautiful Terraced Walls

Rather than one large retaining wall, creating multiple steps of smaller walls has its own advantages. Terracing your retaining wall is a good option that distributes the weight of the earth more evenly and less stressfully on more retaining wall elements than just a really big retaining wall.

Terracing can transform a hillside slope from a barren plain into a lush, green garden, or create three-dimensionality and visual interest in a backyard that is otherwise flat. The tiers can be filled with flowers and shrubs, or simply left to grow grass in order to provide comfortable amphitheater-like seating. Terracing also makes the addition of outdoor steps easier – a plus for children and older adults.

 

Landscape Design with retaining walls and steps

 

Use Short Walls and Stairs for a Gradual Rise

This interesting wall features thinly cut, stone. It’s a great idea for a shorter wall concept or even a smaller wall that you’re trying to build around to planter. The stacked stone adds so much texture and color the scene, it’s amazing that there are not more ideas that include this type of stone. I could see this idea in an artistic garden compete with the relaxing sounds of a water feature babbling in the background.

This is a great layout that features both large and small stones to create a retainer wall that is absolutely gorgeous! Not only gorgeous, but this concept is so unique in design. Imagine this stairwell leading to a secret garden? Half the charm of these kinds of walls is that they will, undoubtedly, last for a very, very long time.

 

water feature and retaining walll

 

Use Walls to Incorporate Water Features

To add movement or warmth to your retaining wall, add a stunning water feature. Water features are a simple, beautiful and refreshing option for outdoor living projects.

A retaining wall designed with water and fire features creates a perfect backdrop during hot summers and cold nights. One of the simplest ways to incorporate a water feature in a retaining wall is to add a waterfall. A retaining wall waterfall can be incorporated right into you ‘re already designed retaining wall construction, they add a beautiful natural touch to patios, gardens or even pools. Typically the water will flow out from the stone in a smooth sheet-like format into a recycled water basin below.

 

Landscape Design retaining walls and bridges

 

Create a Bridge Over Land or Water

Your garden bridge can either span a pond, a creek or connect any two highpoints of land. Placing the bridge so that it spans part or all of a pond or deep rift is advantageous because it is truly useful; you and your guests can walk across the to the other side easily (and kids love this, too!).

Building a bridge is not a one-weekend project. And actually not a retaining wall of any kind, but it solves terrain issues, and can be built out of the same materials as any walls or steps you have elsewhere. The work is well worth the long-term beauty and value that this project adds to your home.

In Conclusion, A well-built retaining wall can reshape sloping yards and solve water runoff issues. Add visual appeal to your outdoor living space with your landscape designer’s retaining wall ideas and tips.