10 must-have stones for the perfect hardscape design

Hardscapes offer a great way to add beauty and texture to any outdoor space. They also provide practical solutions for garden, patio, or walkway designs. Hardscapes are made of hard materials like brick, stone, or concrete and can be turned into paths, patios, decks, driveways, and more. With the right materials and an eye for detail, you can create a stunning hardscape display that will last for years to come.

If you’re looking to add hardscape features to your home or office space, consider using stones in your design. Stones can be used for a variety of decorative purposes, from pathways and patios to walls and water features; there's a stone for every area. 

Not only are stones durable and long-lasting, but they also offer a number of other benefits: Stones come in a wide range of colors, textures, and sizes, so you’re sure to find an option that is aesthetically pleasing, and suits your taste; a stone hardscape can give your home a natural look and is especially beneficial if you live in an urban area; and finally, unlike other materials like wood or concrete, stones require very little maintenance and are easy to clean. 

In this article, we'll go over the 10 must-have stones you'll need to create the perfect hardscape display. From granite to limestone, we'll discuss which materials are best suited for your unique design and why they're essential elements for achieving that perfect look!

What stones should you use in a hardscape?

Few stones are essential to creating a beautiful and functional outdoor space. From flagstone pavers to river rocks, these are just a few of the must-have stones for hardscape design. With these stones and a little creativity, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that you'll enjoy for years to come.

• Flagstone

Its natural appearance and high-quality durability makes flagstone a popular choice for patios, walkways, and other outdoor areas. Flagstone comes in a variety of colors, sizes, and textures, so it can be used to create many different looks. Flagstone pavers are a popular choice for hardscape design because they offer a natural look that can be customized to fit any space. 

• Bluestone

When made wet or cracked open, bluestone looks blue though it also comes in shades of gray or brown. Bluestone can be used for paving, patios, walkways, steps, and more. It is a versatile stone that can be used in both for any type of setting and works for all types of weather conditions. If set and protected properly, it can last for many decades. 

• Travertine

Often used in construction, travertine is a type of limestone formed by calcium carbonate deposits in hot springs or caves. Travertine is a durable, high-quality natural stone that is easy to work with. It can be cut into thin slices and used for facades, flooring, cladding walls, and countertops. Travertine comes in a choice of pale colors, including white, tan, and cream.

• Limestone

When it comes to hardscape design, limestone is a must-have stone. This natural stone is available in a wide range of colors and sizes, making it perfect for everything from walkways and patios toDriveways and pool decks. Plus, limestone is extremely durable and easy to maintain, so you can enjoy your beautiful hardscape design for years to come.

• Slate

Slate has been used for centuries as a hardscape material. It is durable, easy to work with, and comes in a variety of colors. Slate can be used for paving, walls, steps, and other hardscape features. Commonly used for outdoor paving, such as patios, walkways, and driveways, slate can also be used for interior projects like flooring and walls in kitchens and bathrooms. Slate can be cut into different shapes with special tools, making it an ideal choice for custom designs.

• Sandstone

Sandstone is composed of dot-sized particles of rocks, minerals, or organic material. As a conglomeration of these materials held together by a natural cement, such as calcium carbonate. The color of sandstone is typically light beige to yellowish-brown due to the presence of quartz and feldspar. It may also appear in shades of pink or red if it includes significant amounts of hematite or other iron oxide minerals. Sandstone can be found in various textures depending on the type of cement that binds the grains together.

• Basalt

Basalt is a type of igneous rock that forms when lava cools above ground. Basalt also has a unique, attractive look that can add visual appeal to any garden or outdoor space. It is available in a variety of colors and sizes, so it is easy to find one that suits your needs. Additionally, basalt is low maintenance and can withstand harsh weather conditions, making it a great long-term solution for hardscape projects. Basalt is often used in construction projects such as road base, railroad ballast, and paving stones. It is also used to make statues and other architectural features.

• Granite

Granite is a beautiful and versatile stone that can be used in a variety of ways in hardscape design. Its durability and heat-resistant characteristics make it an ideal choice for outdoor use. Granite can be used for pavers, walls, countertops, steps, and more. 

• Quartzite

Quartzite has a sparkling finish making it another great choice for hardscape designs. It comes in many colors and textures with the crystalized shine that gives it a clean, elegant and fresh appearance. Quartzite can be used for pavers, countertops, and veneers.

• Thin Veneer 

Stone veneer is a thin layer of stone that is cut and applied to the face of another surface, such as brick or concrete. Stone veneer can furnish the same look as any natural stone. It gives the appearance of stone without needing the structures to support the heavy stone. Most commonly, stone veneer is made of fieldstone, limestone or sandstone and can be used for fireplaces or outdoor kitchens. It comes in a variety of colors and styles, so you can create the perfect stone look for your home. 

One of the great things about using stones in your hardscape design is the range of textures and colors available. From smooth pebbles to rough-hewn boulders, there’s a stone out there that will fit any look you’re going for. 

Choosing the right design for your hardscape

It's important to take into account the different elements of your hardscape design when selecting stones because they can make or break the overall appearance of the entire area. 

Keeping in tune with the style of your house, the hardscape design should complement the existing architecture of your home.

Consider how much space you have available as well as the weather conditions where you live before making any final decisions on which stone material will work best for your project. 

You don't want to have to constantly be upkeep on your hardscape, so opt for materials that are easy to care for and won't require a lot of work down the road. Get creative! There are no rules when it comes to hardscape design, so have fun with it and let your creativity shine through.

Conclusion

There is a lot to consider when it comes to the aesthetics of selecting stones for your project, such as type of stone material, color, size, shape, texture, and durability. It’s important to even look at the entire architecture to see if the choice of stone and style are all harmonious. And whichever type of materials you choose, your hardscape design should be an extension of your personal style and  personality. Play around with a few combinations. With a little bit of creativity, you can create a truly stunning hardscape display that you and your family can enjoy for years to come!