Metals in the Landscape
Metals in the landscape. Hmmm…at first thought, it might seem cold and uninviting and no one wants a cold and uninviting space surrounding them; not even cold and uninviting people. (Stick with me here…). However, I think you would be surprised by how much metal is actually already used on the exteriors of most residential or commercial projects. It can range from a huge metal feature to simple accents of metal.
Why is it important and why should I consider it? Metal provides an amazing contrast to your soft plants, making a more dynamic space for your design. Plus, it adds another neutral color to your hardscape palette instead of just grey concrete or white walls.
Keep in mind, an intricate custom metal piece can be awfully expensive and honestly, pretty hard to source. But there are lighter budget ways to still get that dynamic look in your yard without breaking the bank.
Let’s dive right in and take a look at some of the ways you can use metal in the landscape!
Metal Retaining Wall. Source.
This slope is being supported by a metal wall - this type of rusty colored metal is known as Cor-ten steel which is essentially a steel that has been weathered.
Here we have steel walls and stairs which, when paired with the pea gravel and soft plants create a stand out look.
Board form concrete walls and metal stem walls create an appealing and custom entrance to this home in San Diego by Grounded Landscape Architecture.
Metal overheads (or patio covers depending who you are talking to) are my favorite way to introduce metal into the yard. Don’t confuse this with Alumawood, these are hefty solid beams. You could even still make them look coastal contemporary by painting it white.
Handrails and more stairs:Typically handrails already are metal, but this one stands out to me because it is Cor-Ten, it is a flat bar and has a nice custom weld finish.
If you are looking to drop some coin, these metal post fence are fabulous and very contemporary and very cool. I love the way the break the norm… who said a fence has to be wood slats!? And, who says you need top or bottom rails!? This fence throws caution to the wind and is really living it’s best life.
I love this picture… you not only have my favorite fence, but a metal overhead that ties in with the metal windows and the metal surround on the deck. Perfection!
“But Katie, these are all so contemporary and modern, I don’t want contemporary!” Rest assured, you really kind find a spot for metal in any garden… just look at these beautiful metal arbors. They are elegant and charming.
Okay, this arbor is pretty modern… but super cool, right?
Metal can also be used for exterior building facades. I love the way the fence post cactus really pop against the metal panels on this house.
Extraordinary desserts… and! Extraordinary metal facades! They took a really boring building and made it shine. No really, at night it is backlit and looks awesome. And they have good cake. And ice cream. And cookies.
There are also a wide variety of companies who manufacturer metal panels. Garden Elements created this wall to provide transparent privacy.
You can also jazz up a boring wall in your backyard with metal panels and some lights. How cool is that?
A more subtle way to use metal…to retain cobble for Gabion walls. I love a gabion wall in a southwestern style garden like the one above.
Even more subtle, and something everyone can do… metal edging in the garden. It is crisp and clean.
Don’t forget your exterior house numbers and light fixtures! Even though they are small, they sure do help your facade.
Metal planters are also an easy way to introduce another material to your landscape. I love the look of these planters from Room and Board.
So, there you have it! The surprising element your garden could be missing. I hope you are inspired to use metal in your next project!