Hardscaping features are easiest to incorporate when they are considered during the initial planning of a project. Pillars, seat walls, firepits, grill islands, and other features may affect the layout of a patio, the location of utilities, the foundation required beneath them, or the access needed to bring materials and equipment into the work area.

Rolling Hills Landscapes plans these features as part of hardscape projects throughout Greater Pittsburgh. Before surrounding patios, walls, walkways, or other improvements are installed, we consider where each feature will sit, how it relates to the rest of the space, whether utility lines are required, and what access will be needed during construction.

"A pre-built stone fireplace is often a simple addition. All it takes is some basic preparation work in the form of a small footer, then placing the units with a machine. This becomes much more difficult if there is no longer machine access. So, if you want something like this later, it's important not to block access with a patio, wall, or other structure. Some pavers can tolerate a machine driving over them and some cannot, so this plays a factor as well. It's better to plan this out than rush into it."

John Linder, Owner & Lead Installer

Pillars

Pillars can be incorporated at entrances, gates, fences, patios, decks, and transitions between outdoor spaces. Entrance and gate pillars can help define the approach to a property, while fence or patio pillars can establish boundaries or provide support where required.

Their proportions and materials should coordinate with the home and surrounding hardscape. Brick, natural stone, masonry, or modular products can be selected to complement nearby walls, patios, steps, and architectural materials. When pillars are included in a larger project, their location, dimensions, foundations, and construction access should be planned before adjacent surfaces or structures are installed.

Seat Walls

Seat walls are commonly incorporated around patios and fire areas or along grade changes where they can help define the edge of an outdoor space. Their placement should account for furniture, circulation, steps, nearby features, and how people will use the surrounding area.

Planning them with the overall project also allows their dimensions and materials to coordinate with patios, retaining structures, steps, and planting areas. For more information about their function and specific design considerations, visit our Seat Walls article.

Stone Mailboxes

Stone mailboxes provide a permanent feature at the front of a property and can be coordinated with materials used on the home, entrance, driveway, or surrounding landscape. Their location should accommodate mail delivery while fitting naturally with the frontage.

Rolling Hills Landscapes installs the mailbox itself as a removable insert, allowing it to be replaced if damaged without dismantling the surrounding column. Stone, caps, proportions, and other details can be selected to complement existing features. When included with a driveway or front-yard project, its location can also be established as part of the overall layout.

Firepits

When a firepit is part of a larger project, its location should be determined early so surrounding seating, patio space, and any required fuel line can be planned before finished surfaces are installed. For materials, fuel choices, and complete feature details, visit our Outdoor Firepits page.

Grill Islands

Grill islands should be planned early so enough space is reserved for cooking, access, nearby seating, and any required utilities. Coordinating these details before the surrounding patio is completed can prevent changes later. For equipment, storage, finishes, and complete design information, visit our Barbecue Islands page.

Plan Your Hardscaping Features From the Start

Planning a patio, retaining wall, outdoor living area, or other hardscape project with additional features? Rolling Hills Landscapes can help incorporate pillars, seat walls, fire features, grill islands, stone mailboxes, and other additions into the project from the beginning. Contact us at 412-885-7049 or via our online form to discuss your plans and request a consultation.