Retaining Walls We Love

July 01, 2021

retaining walls we love

Sloping hillsides, bluffs, steep drop-offs, rough terrain, creeks, and ravines are all hallmarks of the natural landscape here in the Pacific Northwest. Some might see the challenge of trying to create functional yards in such an environment, but we see the opportunity to get creative—especially when we start talking about retaining walls.

Retaining walls offer the perfect blend of form and function, serving dual purposes in landscape design. While helping homeowners make the most of a sloped lot, retaining walls also provide added interest, distinctive style, and beauty. Over the years, we have installed countless retaining walls in a multitude of designs and materials. Here is a collection of some of our favorites.

Natural stone retaining walls are a popular choice and offer a wide variety of colors and textures and styles from refined to rustic.

Terraced retaining wall featuring mica ledgestone

Terraced retaining wall featuring mica ledgestone

Basalt boulder retaining wall with basalt corner column and concrete paver stair treads

Basalt boulder retaining wall with basalt corner column and concrete paver stair treads

Basalt rock wall with Holland herringbone pavers

Basalt rock wall with Holland herringbone pavers

Steel and concrete are two materials often used in retaining walls to achieve a specific aesthetic that blends modern industrial with natural elements.

Corten steel walls provide structure and form to complement and support the flowing curves of this landscape

Corten steel walls provide structure and form to complement and support the flowing curves of this landscape

Concrete wall with concrete steps and corten steel terraced garden boxes

Concrete wall with concrete steps and corten steel terraced garden boxes

 

Raised garden and retaining wall constructed with raw steel

Raised garden and retaining wall constructed with raw steel

Concrete block retaining walls are another popular choice with a selection of stone colors, styles, and sizes that can be configured in a number of ways.

Curved and straight lines have been incorporated into this concrete block retaining wall finished with stone caps

Curved and straight lines have been incorporated into this concrete block retaining wall finished with stone caps

 

Stone blocks provide both a retaining wall and foundational support for this patio. The retaining wall has been capped with Belgard Diamond wall cap and the steps leading up to the patio are a Belgard Landings© Step unit.

Stone blocks provide both a retaining wall and foundational support for this patio. The retaining wall has been capped with Belgard Diamond wall cap and the steps leading up to the patio are a Belgard Landings© Step unit.

 

Larger walls for supporting hillsides and sharp elevation changes are usually built of full-size concrete blocks. Walls over 4 feet tall usually require engineering and permitting to ensure they are safe.

Larger walls for supporting hillsides and sharp elevation changes are usually built of full-size concrete blocks. Walls over 4 feet tall usually require engineering and permitting to ensure they are safe.

As you are considering retaining wall materials and design options for your own yard and landscape, we encourage you to consult with us. There are a variety of factors to consider and we can help you select the right materials and retaining wall type to fit your yard as well as your personal style.

Contact Landscape East and West today to get started, or check out our photo gallery and past retaining wall blog articles for more inspiration.

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