You might give them much thought but well-planned steps can add improved function to your Cambridge, MA, landscape design. The right steps can improve the appearance of your outdoor spaces and give your guests a welcoming, safe way to access various parts of the property.
Stairs for Walkways
If you have a walkway or two that curves up or down, having your landscaper redesign that space with well-planned steps can add safety and easy movement from the parking area to access the entry door and back again. These stairs, built of long-lasting stone, can serve you well for many years with remarkable beauty.
Stone stairs that are wide and deep enough for a foothold that won’t bump the step back can give your guests of any age a desirable way to move around from one outdoor place to another.
While a landscape professional is designing the steps, they can also address the slope that causes the need for steps. Many times, you are just dealing with the sloping yard space as best you can. The solution can be to have a landscape specialist design a retaining wall to remedy that slope for more usable outdoor space. With a flat outdoor space at the base of the retaining wall and a gently curved landscape space above, this can be a way to improve the appearance of your yard and other parts of the property.
Stone Step Characteristics
Stone steps can be composed of multiple materials for a custom appearance. With so many options, your landscape professional can help you select the ideal mix for your outdoor space.
Paver Choices: The available paver choices can seem overwhelming but they know how to combine colors, textures, and paver styles to create a unique look for your yard. Part of the beauty of pavers can be the durability and weather-proof nature that will remain enticing for many years of a secure surface.
Top with Stone: The top of the steps can be finished with a flat stone that won’t move or shift. You can choose a classic fieldstone or bluestone, a lovely granite or limestone, or another stone that draws out the best of your exterior colors and architectural characteristics.
Landscape Lighting: Illuminating the step surface can be another way to improve the look and security of these steps. A landscape professional can add lighting to the step underside for a seamless look in the daytime and a lighted surface after dark. While this can be a charming addition that elevates the look, you will be so glad to have a lighted surface for your guests.
Incorporate Stone Planters: With their extensive knowledge of landscape design, a landscape professional can plan to incorporate stone planters on both sides of the steps for a perfect spot to add seasonal flowers for a burst of color.
Include Custom Railing: You may also want to add custom railing to the steps for added comfort. Whether wood or iron railings appeal to you, a landscape specialist can help you find the best look for your new steps in the landscape design.
While they might seem minor, having a set of steps that brings value and beauty to your outdoor spaces can be a great investment in your landscape design.
Related: 6 IDEAS TO BRING THE WOW FACTOR TO YOUR LANDSCAPE DESIGN IN LEXINGTON AND NEWTON, MA
