Hardscape Design Trends of 2023

Recently, the significance of outdoor living spaces has ignited a renewed enthusiasm among homeowners and designers looking to reimagine these areas in dynamic and invigorating ways. Unilock has curated a number of popular hardscape design trends that have emerged in 2023 to help inspire your next outdoor project.

Extending and Defining Outdoor Spaces

According to a 2022 survey conducted by the National Association of Home Builders, 58 per cent of homeowners prioritize a deep connection with nature and the outdoors when curating their design choices. This goes hand-in-hand with one of the prevailing hardscape design trends that has taken the outdoor world by storm, which is the idea of expanding and delineating outdoor spaces.

Today, homeowners are embracing the art of creating seamless transitions, skillfully blurring the boundaries that separate their indoor and outdoor spaces. Patios, decks, and terraces are being transformed into functional outdoor living spaces with cozy seating arrangements, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and even outdoor theaters. The idea of this trend is to create an inviting and comfortable environment that encourages people to spend more time outdoors and enjoy the beauty of nature.

For example, this raised paver patio exudes timeless charm and comfort, while also entertaining guests with the inclusion of an outdoor TV wall, couch and chairs that bring the living room outdoors.

Yin-Yang Color Combinations

Hardscape design is embracing the harmonious interplay of contrasting yin-yang color combinations, such as this modern geometric driveway design. Traditional earthy tones, such as warm browns and sandy hues, are being paired with vibrant blues, greens, and even daring pops of red.

Additionally, the contrast creates a stunning juxtaposition that not only generates visual interest but also infuses an outdoor space with a sleek, modern allure. This balancing act helps evoke a sense of calmness and tranquility, enhancing the overall atmosphere and aesthetic appeal.

Geometric Shapes

Geometric patterns have emerged as the go-to technique for constructing visually captivating focal points in outdoor spaces, extending beyond simple paved pathways and seating areas. These mesmerizing arrangements infuse the landscape with a symphony of shapes, disrupting home design while orchestrating an awe-inspiring spectacle that draws the eye.

Rectangular pavers, hexagonal tiles, and linear arrangements provide a sense of structure and order, while circular elements like fire pits and water features soften the overall design. The interplay of straight lines and curves imbues the outdoor landscape with both depth and elegance.

Harmonizing Fire and Water Features

Another captivating trend is the artful combination of fire and water features. By harmonizing fire and water, designers are able to evoke a sense of harmony while creating captivating focal points in a spa-like space. Fire features, such as fire pits, fireplaces, or torches, provide warmth, light, and a gathering place for friends and family. On the other hand, water features, like fountains, ponds, or cascading waterfalls, introduce a soothing and tranquil element to the outdoor environment.

Whether it’s a tranquil Zen garden with a fire bowl centered amidst a koi pond or a grand courtyard with a central fire and water sculpture, the harmonization of these elements adds a sense of refined luxury to the hardscape design.

Entangled Design (Biophilic Design)

The concept of entangled design, also known as biophilic design, is an emerging trend that subscribes to the idea of bringing people closer to the natural environment, with a goal of improving the overall health and well-being of those who inhabit the space. Biophilic design offers numerous benefits, including improved air quality, reduced stress levels, and increased biodiversity.

Entanglement techniques are becoming increasing popular, with living walls, green roofs, and vertical gardens granting homeowners the ability to create lush outdoor spaces. One example of an entangled design is this elegant pool deck, which combined large format Arcana™ slabs with turf to create a beautiful mosaic pattern that is cool underfoot.

Embracing Sustainability and a Low Carbon Footprint

In an era focused on environmental responsibility, sustainable hardscaping practices are gaining momentum. Homeowners and designers are opting for materials that have a low carbon footprint, such as permeable pavers, recycled concrete, or locally sourced natural stones. Some municipalities may offer tax-saving benefits to encourage the use of permeable applications.

Rainwater harvesting systems and efficient irrigation techniques are being implemented to help with water conservation. Furthermore, the integration of solar-powered lighting and energy-efficient technologies adds an eco-friendly touch to outdoor spaces, reducing the overall environmental impact.

By seamlessly blending aesthetics and functionality, these hardscape design trends are reshaping our outdoor living spaces, encouraging us to reconnect with nature while embracing style and sustainability. Whether you’re planning to renovate your backyard or create a stunning landscape, consider incorporating one of these exciting hardscape design trends into your outdoor space today. Speak to a Unilock paver contractor to help kick-start your next design project.