There are two ways to start planning your dream backyard.

In most cases, approaching the project from a budget standpoint can be the most valuable.

Hawkstone Outdoor Design and their professional consultants will be able to present as many options as needed for you to make the best possible decision for your new outdoor living space.

If you are more of a visual decision maker, going straight into the design phase may the recommended way for you. During your consultation we can discuss that process as well.

Know before you go!

Hawkstone Outdoor Design’s dedicated team of professionals can visually portray your ideas for your outdoor space quickly and efficiently.

Using cutting edge technology, we can “plug and play” multiple ideas for you to ensure you see all possibilities and can make the best-informed decisions that suit your personal taste and vision for your Jacksonville outdoor design.

Hawkstone Outdoor Design settles for nothing less than the best.

We promise to build the backyard of your dreams to the highest level of expectations as efficiently as possible without sacrificing quality

Even with the best builders in the field, Hawkstone Outdoor Design will be watching the crew “like a Hawk”, ensuring all of your goals are achieved down to the smallest detail.

Now that the dream is a reality, you get to enjoy your backyard for years to come.

Hawkstone ensures the quality just as much as the longevity, and we stand behind our work long after your project is complete.

Welcome to the Hawkstone family!

In Florida, creating a low-maintenance landscape is a smart choice, given the state’s climate and weather conditions. Here are some elements and strategies that can contribute to the best low-maintenance landscape in Florida:

1. Native Plants: Utilize native plants in your landscape design. They are adapted to Florida’s climate and require less water and maintenance. Native plants also attract local wildlife and promote biodiversity.

2. Drought-Tolerant Plants: Select drought-tolerant plants that can withstand Florida’s hot and dry periods. Examples include succulents, ornamental grasses, and xeriscape plants.

3. Mulch: Apply a thick layer of mulch around your plants and garden beds to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and reduce the need for frequent watering. Organic mulches like pine straw or wood chips work well in Florida.

4. Irrigation System: Invest in an efficient irrigation system with smart controllers that adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions. Drip irrigation is an excellent choice for targeted and water-efficient watering.

5. Hardscaping: Incorporate hardscape elements like stone pathways, gravel areas, and paver patios to reduce the amount of lawn and plant beds that need maintenance. These elements are easy to clean and require minimal care.

6. Low-Maintenance Lawn: If you want a lawn, choose warm-season grasses like Zoysia or Bahia grass, which are better suited for Florida’s climate and require less water and maintenance compared to cool-season grasses.

7. Grouping Plants: Group plants with similar water and maintenance requirements together. This makes it easier to care for them efficiently.

8. Garden Design: Create a well-thought-out garden design with simplicity in mind. Reduce the number of plant species and focus on mass plantings for a clean and low-maintenance look.

9. Automatic Lighting: Install low-maintenance outdoor lighting with automatic timers to enhance the beauty of your landscape in the evenings without the need for constant adjustments.

10. Professional Design: Consider hiring a professional landscape designer, such as Hawkstone Landscape Design, with expertise in Florida landscapes. They can help you create a low-maintenance landscape that suits your preferences while thriving in Florida’s unique climate.

By incorporating these elements and strategies, you can achieve a low-maintenance landscape in Florida that remains beautiful and functional year-round with minimal effort. Hawkstone Landscape Design can provide guidance and expertise to create a sustainable and easy-to-maintain outdoor space in the Florida environment.

Laying pavers directly on dirt is generally not recommended for a long-lasting and stable installation. While it’s possible to lay pavers on dirt in certain situations, it’s essential to follow specific steps and considerations to ensure a successful and durable result. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Prepare the Base: The first step is to prepare the dirt base properly. Clear the area of any vegetation, rocks, or debris. Then, excavate the dirt to a depth that allows for a stable and level base. The exact depth will depend on the thickness of the pavers and the type of project you’re working on.

2. Add a Base Material: After excavation, it’s crucial to add a base material, such as crushed stone or gravel. This base material provides stability, drainage, and prevents settling. The depth of the base material will vary depending on your project but typically ranges from 4 to 6 inches.

3. Compact the Base: Use a compactor to ensure the base material is compacted evenly and firmly. This step is essential to prevent settling and create a solid foundation for the pavers.

4. Edge Restraints: Install edge restraints, such as plastic or metal paver edging, around the perimeter of your project. These restraints keep the pavers in place and prevent them from shifting over time.

5. Sand Layer: On top of the compacted base, add a layer of coarse sand. The sand should be screeded, which means using a long board or leveling tool to create a perfectly flat and even surface.

6. Lay Pavers: Now, you can begin laying the pavers on the sand bed in your desired pattern. Start from one edge and work your way across, ensuring that the pavers are level and properly spaced.

7. Compact Again: After laying the pavers, use a compactor to gently vibrate and settle them into the sand. This step helps to lock the pavers in place.

8. Fill the Joints: After compacting, fill the joints between the pavers with fine sand. This sand will help interlock the pavers and prevent them from shifting.

While it is possible to lay pavers on dirt, it’s important to note that this method is best suited for pathways and patios in non-vehicular traffic areas. For driveways and high-traffic areas, a more robust and stable base, typically including concrete or a thicker base material, is recommended to withstand the pressure and weight.

For a professional and long-lasting paver installation, especially in high-traffic areas, consider consulting with a landscape or hardscape professional like Hawkstone Landscape Design. They can ensure that your pavers are installed correctly, providing durability and aesthetic appeal to your outdoor space.

Landscaping around a pool area can enhance the beauty, functionality, and safety of your outdoor space. Here are the steps to help you landscape around a pool area effectively:

1. Safety First:

   • Prioritize safety by ensuring that there is proper fencing or barriers around the pool area to prevent accidents and secure access.

2. Compliance with Regulations:

   • Familiarize yourself with local regulations and codes regarding pool landscaping, fencing, and safety requirements. Ensure your design complies with these regulations.

3. Zoning and Space Planning:

   • Define the zones around your pool. Consider areas for sunbathing, seating, dining, and play. Ensure clear pathways and transitions between these zones.

4. Selection of Pool-Friendly Plants:

   • Choose pool-friendly plants that don’t shed a lot of leaves, flowers, or other debris into the pool. Opt for plants with non-invasive root systems to prevent damage to pool structures.

5. Privacy and Screening:

   • Create privacy and screen your pool area with hedges, trees, or fences. This can enhance the sense of seclusion and make your pool area more inviting.

6. Shade and Cabanas:

   • Provide shade options such as umbrellas, pergolas, or cabanas to protect swimmers and sunbathers from intense sun. These features also add style and comfort to your pool area.

7. Decking or Patio:

   • Choose appropriate decking or patio materials, such as pavers, natural stone, or composite wood. These materials are slip-resistant and comfortable underfoot.

8. Outdoor Furniture:

   • Select durable and weather-resistant outdoor furniture for seating and lounging around the pool. Consider comfortable chaise lounges, sunbeds, and outdoor dining sets.

9. Pool Lighting:

   • Install pool lighting and landscape lighting to create a beautiful ambiance in the evening. Soft, warm lighting can transform the pool area into a relaxing retreat after dark.

10. Water Features:

    • Enhance the pool area with water features such as waterfalls, fountains, or decorative spillovers. These elements can add both visual appeal and the soothing sound of running water.

11. Pool Deck Plants:

    • Use containers or built-in planters near the pool deck to add color and greenery without the risk of plant debris entering the pool. Consider tropical plants like palms for a resort-style look.

12. Pavers and Coping:

    • Select pool coping and pavers that complement the pool’s style. These materials should be slip-resistant and heat-reflective to ensure safety and comfort.

13. Poolside Pathways:

    • Create attractive pathways around the pool area using pavers or stone to provide easy access and prevent slipping.

14. Maintenance:

    • Plan for ongoing maintenance, which may include pool cleaning, plant pruning, and deck maintenance to keep your pool area looking its best.

15. Professional Help:

    • Consider working with a professional landscape designer, like Hawkstone Landscape Design, who has experience in pool landscaping to ensure a well-designed and functional space.

Designing and landscaping around a pool area can greatly enhance your outdoor living experience. By carefully planning and selecting the right elements, you can create a beautiful and enjoyable poolside retreat that suits your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Hawkstone Landscape Design can assist you in designing and implementing a stunning pool area that balances beauty, safety, and functionality.

Designing your yard layout is a creative and exciting process. Whether you’re looking to create a serene garden, a functional outdoor living space, or a combination of both, here are the steps to help you design your yard layout effectively:

1. Assess Your Space:

   • Begin by measuring your yard’s dimensions and understanding its topography, including slopes, existing structures, and any natural features like trees or water features. This assessment provides the foundation for your design.

2. Define Your Goals:

   • Determine the primary purpose of your yard. Are you looking for a place to relax, entertain, garden, play, or all of the above? Clarifying your goals will guide your design choices.

3. Create a Rough Sketch:

   • Start with a rough sketch of your yard. This doesn’t need to be detailed, but it should include the main elements you envision, such as patios, walkways, plant beds, and focal points.

4. Consider Sun and Shade:

   • Identify areas of your yard that receive sunlight and shade at different times of the day. This will help you decide where to place various elements, such as seating areas or gardens.

5. Select Plants and Materials:

   • Choose plants, trees, and hardscape materials that are suitable for your climate, soil conditions, and design preferences. Consider factors like height, bloom time, and maintenance requirements.

6. Hardscape Elements:

   • Decide on hardscape elements, such as patios, decks, pathways, and borders. Consider materials like pavers, concrete, wood, or natural stone, depending on your style and budget.

7. Zoning and Function:

   • Divide your yard into functional zones. Create distinct areas for dining, relaxation, gardening, and other purposes. This zoning helps define the flow of your outdoor space.

8. Focal Points:

   • Add focal points like water features, sculptures, fire pits, or even an outdoor kitchen to create visual interest and draw attention to specific areas.

9. Balance and Symmetry:

   • Strive for a sense of balance and symmetry in your layout, as it’s often aesthetically pleasing. However, don’t be afraid to introduce some asymmetry for a unique and dynamic look.

10. Flow and Accessibility:

    • Ensure that your yard layout has a logical flow and is easily accessible. Paths and walkways should connect different areas, and there should be clear transitions between zones.

11. Scale and Proportion:

    • Pay attention to the scale and proportion of your design elements. Avoid overcrowding or underutilizing space. Make sure each element fits harmoniously within the overall design.

12. Budget and Timeline:

    • Consider your budget and timeline. Some features may be more affordable or quicker to implement than others, so prioritize based on your resources.

13. Professional Help:

    • If you’re unsure or want a more intricate design, consider working with a professional landscape designer, like Hawkstone Landscape Design. They can provide expert guidance and a detailed plan.

14. Iterate and Revise:

    • Don’t hesitate to make changes to your design as you go along. It’s natural to refine your ideas and make adjustments as you see the plan come to life.

15. Implement and Maintain:

    • Once you have a finalized design, start implementing it. Remember to maintain your yard regularly to keep it looking its best.

Designing your yard layout is a creative journey that allows you to express your personality and create a space that suits your lifestyle. Enjoy the process and the satisfaction of seeing your vision come to life in your outdoor space.