If you could install one element on a patio that would make a huge difference in the patio’s functionality and beauty, what would it be? You might be surprised to know that the humble sitting wall could be the answer. Here’s why building sitting walls is worth it in the York and Lancaster, PA, areas.

Related: 3 DETAILS TO LOOK FOR IN PATIO PAVERS FROM OUR MASONRY SUPPLY IN HARRISBURG, PA

A Companion to the Patio

The sitting wall is a masonry wall at just the right height for sitting. Its cap stone is generously proportioned to offer a comfortable place to sit. But how can it transform a patio? Since outdoor areas are designed to be used, careful consideration of the utility of each individual element is a prime concern, especially in smaller spaces. 

The Place to Gather

Sitting walls create a cozier space. Many patios are basically ground-level slabs surrounded by a lawn or other landscaping elements. But, if homes are close together, this can have a fishbowl effect that doesn’t make for cozy spaces to entertain or relax. While a sitting wall won’t offer privacy, it does give a sense of enclosure—more of a definition of space —that contributes to a more intimate feeling. 

Vertical Elements

Sitting walls give a backyard vertical dimension without blocking views. Pancake-flat backyards need something other than trees to give them dimension. Shrubs and taller plants serve the same purpose, but they aren’t as utilitarian as sitting walls. On a steeply sloped yard, consider a tiered retaining wall/sitting wall to give the space a feeling reminiscent of Roman coliseums. It’s an efficient and dramatic way to add usable space and beautify the landscape.

Aesthetically Pleasing Impact

Sitting walls can tie a landscape together. This is especially useful if various areas utilize different pavers, such as a driveway, walkway, and patio. One wall material will tie it all together.

Full Functionality

Often, the main question on people’s mind when hosting a party is, “Where will everybody sit?” landscape professionals can avoid the scramble for clunky patio furniture, and give the job to a beautiful masonry sitting wall. Sitting walls offer overflow seating without creating clutter or blocking traffic flow.

Large patios can be broken up into distinct activity zones with sitting walls. These can include a conversation area around a fire pit or a defined cooking/dining area with overflow seating beside an outdoor kitchen or grill station.

They’re also the perfect way to get close to nature—literally, in some landscapes, to stop and smell the roses—especially for individuals with limited mobility. And when placed along a walkway, they give people a place to rest or chat away from the main activity of the patio area.

When sitting walls are not in use, they offer the opportunity to add decorative touches to the patio using potted plants or ornaments.

Places for Outdoor Lighting

Sitting walls can also house light fixtures. Instead of a harsh glaring overhead light, the patio can be softly illuminated just where it needs to be to offer safe passage and the right ambience. Light fixtures that shine from under the cap stone will highlight the wall’s texture for a dramatic after-dark effect.

Keep in mind sitting walls are functional while meeting a particular design aesthetic. They can follow the contours of an existing walkway or patio, or serve as a guide for an expansion. They can be gorgeous focal points in their own right.

Related Read: MARKING PERIMETERS AND OTHER SAFETY FUNCTIONS OF OUTDOOR LIGHTING IN LANCASTER, PA

Image Source: Unilock