Design Considerations

Concrete Walkways walkway The Green Scene
Seat walls create a courtyard feel in this entry.
The Green Scene in Canoga Park, CA

Outdoor Kitchens patio The Green Scene
Low retaining walls at seat height maximize the use of the yard.
The Green Scene in Canoga Park, CA

Because the human eye briefly refocuses at each vertical plane that comes into view (think of your auto focus camera), seat wall placement can subtly direct views, traffic flow and create focal points. Take into consideration the views from indoor windows and doorways when placing your seat wall layout.

When designing gardens for entertaining, I plan the use of seat walls many ways:

  • Low retaining walls to add depth to a yard
  • Flank entry steps to create a grand effect
  • Raise patio areas to 18" to create outdoor room feel
  • Fountain surround to highlight favorite water feature
  • Add seating adjacent to outdoor kitchen for a quick sit down alfresco snack
  • Create a raised flowering tree planter
  • Add lighting in the garden without visible fixtures
  • For extra comfort, add a backrest of iron or concrete
  • Seat cushions designed to be used outdoors can be ordered online

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