Summer in Western NC is the perfect time to refresh your backyard and create a space that’s both beautiful and functional. Whether you’re hosting family gatherings, enjoying quiet evenings by the fire, or simply soaking up the mountain views, the right hardscape projects can elevate your outdoor living experience.

At Clark Hardscape, we specialize in premium brands and materials like Unilock, Techo-Bloc, Pine Hall Brick, and Keystone pavers, as well as #57 gravel, natural boulders, and NC stone—all designed to withstand Western North Carolina’s climate while adding timeless appeal to your home. Here are five summer-ready hardscape projects to inspire your next backyard upgrade.

1. Upgrade Your Patio with High-Quality Pavers: The Foundation of Outdoor Living

Adding pavers is the ultimate summer upgrade, providing a durable, stylish surface for dining, lounging, or entertaining. Unlike concrete, pavers allow for custom designs, easy repairs, and excellent drainage—especially ideal for Western NC’s summer rainstorms.

Why Choose Pavers?

• Durability: Brands like Unilock, Techo-Bloc, and Keystone resist cracking and fading, even in extreme heat.
• Design Flexibility: Mix colors, patterns, and textures to match your home’s aesthetic. Try Unilock Treo Prem Mixed Bundle for a modern look or Keystone Plaza Pavers for a classic touch.
• Low Maintenance: Sweep, rinse, and enjoy—no sealing required for most products.

Clark Hardscape Picks

• Unilock: Treo Prem Mixed Bundle, Beacon Hill Flagstone, Courtstone
• Techo-Bloc: Eva Pavers, BLU 60 Slate Pavers, Antika Smooth Pavers
• Pine Hall Brick: Rumbled Series
• Keystone: Plaza Paver, Venetian Paver

🌟 Pro Tip: Use light-colored pavers (like Unilock Treo in Almond Grove or Techo-Bloc Eva in Champlain Grey) to keep your patio cooler underfoot during hot summer days.

2. Fire Pit Areas: Extend Your Summer Evenings

Nothing says "summer in the mountains" like gathering around a fire pit with friends and family. A well-designed fire pit area can become the focal point of your backyard, providing warmth and ambiance long after the sun sets.

Materials to Consider
From cozy wood-burning gatherings to sleek, clean-burning setups, we’ll help you choose the right materials for a fire pit that fits your style and budget. Our selection of pavers, #57 gravel, and natural boulders ensures your project is built to last and designed to impress.

• Pavers: Create a circular or square base with Unilock Courtstone or Techo-Bloc Antika Smooth Pavers.
• Gravel: Use #57 Gravel for a stable, permeable base and surrounding area.
• Boulders: Add natural boulders for a rustic, built-in look.

Design Ideas

• Built-in Seating: Use retaining wall blocks to create benches around the pit.
• Gravel Surround: Lay #57 gravel for a low-maintenance, drain-friendly surface.
• Lighting: Add solar-powered path lights for safety and atmosphere.

Local Note: Check Franklin or Highlands’ fire regulations before installing. Clark Hardscape can deliver all the materials you need for a DIY project or connect you with trusted local installers.

3. Gravel Pathways: Charming and Practical

Gravel pathways are a cost-effective, low-maintenance way to add structure and charm to your backyard. They’re perfect for connecting garden beds, leading to a patio, or creating a scenic walkway through your property.

Why Gravel?

• Affordability: Less expensive than pavers or poured concrete.
• Drainage: Allows water to seep through, preventing puddles and erosion.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Complements both modern and rustic landscapes.

Clark Hardscape Gravel Options

Installation Tips

• Base Layer: Use #3 Granite or crushed stone for a stable foundation.
• Edging: Define pathways with pavers, boulders, or metal edging.
• Weed Barrier: Lay landscape fabric to minimize maintenance.

4. Retaining Walls: Tame Slopes and Add Dimension

If your Western NC property has slopes or uneven terrain, a retaining wall can transform it into a usable, multi-level outdoor space. Retaining walls also prevent soil erosion and create visual interest.

Material Choices

• Segmental Retaining Wall (SRW) Blocks: Versa-Lok or Allan Block for easy, DIY-friendly installation.
• Natural Stone: NC stone or boulders for a seamless, organic look.
• Pavers: Use Keystone Panorama Demi Pavers for a modern touch.

Design Inspiration

• Tiered Walls: Create terraced gardens or seating areas.
• Curved Walls: Softens the landscape and adds flow.
• Integrated Seating: Build benches into the wall design.

Clark Hardscape Advantage
We offer bulk delivery of retaining wall materials to Franklin, Bryson City, Highlands, and Sylva. Ask about our contractor recommendations for professional installation.

5. Outdoor Kitchens: The Ultimate Summer Entertaining Space

For the ultimate summer upgrade, consider an outdoor kitchen. Imagine grilling fresh NC trout or veggies from your garden, all while enjoying the mountain air. Hardscape materials make it possible to create a durable, weather-resistant cooking area.

Key Components

• Countertops: Use NC stone slabs or Unilock Beacon Hill Flagstone for a custom look.
• Base: Keystone Plaza Pavers or Pine Hall Brick Rumbled Pavers for the structure.
• Flooring: #57 Gravel or Techo-Bloc Eva Pavers for a stable, easy-to-clean surface.

🌟 Pro Tip: Position your outdoor kitchen near your paver patio to create a seamless entertaining zone. Add a boulder water feature nearby for a resort-like vibe.

Why Choose Clark Hardscape for Your Summer Projects?

• Local Expertise: We’ve been serving Western NC for 30 years as Clark & Co. Landscaping, so we understand the unique needs of mountain properties.
• Premium Materials: From Unilock pavers to natural NC stone, we offer the best products for durability and style.
• Convenient Delivery: Need bulk materials? We deliver gravel, pavers, boulders, and more directly to your doorstep.
• Trusted Partners: We work with local contractors in the area and are happy to recommend someone who’ll get your next project sorted.

Ready to Start Your Summer Backyard Project?

Whether you’re DIY-savvy or prefer to hire a pro, we have the materials, expertise, and delivery options to bring your vision to life. Visit us at 516 Saunders Rd in Franklin or call to discuss your project today!