Utilizing Boulders In Landscape Design
This project is a good example of how boulders can add authenticity to a landscape. The patio is a concrete paver that emulates natural stone. The house veneer is also a man made material. The boulders and stone slabs lends age and weight to the pavers and veneer. They are elevated and the entire space benefits.
This illustrates well how boulders impart mass and texture to a landscape. Even though the visible portion of the boulders is relatively small, your mind imagines them much larger. When we see this landscape our mind assumes that much of the boulder is below ground, anchoring the space. We can't see it, but we can feel it. This landscape is (by design) primarily flat, with just a few key elements providing texture and relief. The stones used are a key part of that.
The large boulders in this landscape stabilize the entire garden. This wild (in the best possible way!) garden could very easily lack focus. And when the ornamental grasses and perennials go dormant, what would be left? The plants may come and go, but the timeless boulders will provide stability for this garden as long as it exists. A landscape can be both a vibrant garden and a well designed space. The boulders make this a fantastic example of a project that any gardener or landscaper would love!
In this landscape the boulders serve two purposes. The boulders along the stream help define and naturalize the dry creek that runs through the landscape. Low profile stones serve as a visual bridge from one element to another, blending them naturally. The more dramatic grouping serves as a focal point. The upright boulder draws the eye down the stream and on to the home's entrance. Setting a boulder "up" in this fashion takes skill and patience. It may also require special equipment. Large boulders are often lifted with a tractor, reach forklift, or crane. Heavy duty straps or braided metal cables allow you to grab a boulder and place it exactly how you want.
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