Need a Feature for a Mechanicsburg or Lower Allen Township, PA Landscape? Look at Retaining Walls

Outdoor LivingErosion ControlResidential

Nov 2

Need a Feature for a Mechanicsburg or Lower Allen Township, PA Landscape? Look at Retaining Walls

Are you grappling with a slope that causes erosion with every storm or an area of your Mechanicsburg or Lower Allen Township, PA yard where you want to build an outdoor living space but the terrain is a problem? The solution might be a versatile retaining wall to remedy specific issues that hinder using your landscape in the best way. A retaining wall can have a significant impact on the landscape in your yard, both in terms of aesthetics and functionality.

Retaining Walls for Expanded Outdoor Living

A retaining wall can transform your landscape by addressing various functional and aesthetic needs. Its impact on the overall look and feel of your yard will depend on factors like design, material selection, and integration into the existing landscape. When well-planned and thoughtfully executed, a retaining wall can enhance the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space.

Retaining Wall Designs

Natural stone retaining walls are the most common with a wide variety of types, sizes, and colors of stones you'll use. Consider a mix of larger and smaller stones to create texture and visual interest. For an organic, earthy look, avoid having them perfectly stacked for a more natural appearance.

Using gabion baskets filled with stone create freestanding columns or pillars within the wall where they can serve as decorative elements, or support outdoor structures like pergolas or arbors in addition to building walls. Combine gabion walls with other materials like wood, concrete, or metal for more visual impact and added unique architectural elements.

Arrange landscape boulders in a random, irregular pattern rather than a uniform layout creates a more natural and organic appearance, as if the stones were placed by nature itself. To mimic the look of a natural hillside or rocky outcrop, consider a sloping retaining wall. Gradually step the boulders up the slope, allowing for planting opportunities between the stones.

How Retaining Walls Change the Landscape

Slope Stabilization: Retaining walls are often used to stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion. By holding back soil and preventing it from washing away, a retaining wall can help maintain the integrity of your landscape. The wall design also addresses the water issues that are ruining your landscape and creates a permanent solution for better use of your property.

Definition of Spaces: Retaining walls can be used to define different areas within your yard. For example, they can separate a garden from a patio or create a clear distinction between a raised lawn and a lower-level seating area. Retaining walls are ideal for visually separating one outdoor living space from another such as an outdoor kitchen and dining area from the main patio.

These walls add interest and texture when outlining the perimeters of planting beds. They are versatile and attractive in any part of the landscape.

Privacy and Screening: Depending on the design and height of the retaining wall, it can provide privacy and act as a visual screen which is especially useful if your yard is overlooked by neighboring properties.

Focal Points: Retaining walls can be used to create focal points or visual interest in your landscape. You can incorporate decorative elements, such as lighting, sculptures, plantings, and built-in planters to make the wall a standout feature.