Definition

The solid, non-plant elements in a landscape, like patios, walkways, and walls, made from materials such as stone or concrete.

Example

The garden was beautifully designed with a mix of softscape and hardscape elements.

Conversation

I really love the hardscape in your backyard.

Thanks! I wanted to create a nice space for relaxing.

It definitely looks inviting, especially with that fountain.

Yeah, the hardscape makes it feel more like an outdoor room.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hardscape is formed from "hard" (from Old English "heard", meaning solid or firm) and "scape" (from Old English "sceap", meaning shape or view). The term refers to the solid, non-plant elements of landscape design, emphasizing the firm structures in outdoor spaces.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hard' meaning solid and 'scape' referring to a shape or view — together, they help you remember that hardscape refers to the solid features in a landscape.

Visually Confused Words