How Landscapers Near Me Create Comfortable Permanent Seating in Sun Prairie, WI

If you have ever dealt with the frustration of dragging patio furniture around to accommodate more people—and then everyone tripped over the furniture as they tried to maneuver in a crowded space—then you may appreciate the simplicity and practicality of built-in seating. If you’re wondering “how landscapers near me create comfortable permanent seating” in Sun Prairie, WI, the answers are forthcoming.

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Examples of Permanent Seating

Permanent seating can be made of stone or concrete, wood, or other materials, and it is installed as a non-movable element of a hardscape. Typically, permanent seating is positioned on the perimeter of an outdoor living space—for example, a seat-height retaining wall with a generously sized ledge—but there are instances where it can be incorporated into the central area of the patio.

Retaining Walls for Seating

For a sloped lot, you have many options for integrating permanent seating. Retaining walls can offer the perfect opportunity to seat more people comfortably. Whether they are seat-height or taller, stone or wood seating can be built right in. Not only is this practical, it also adds a sophisticated touch to your outdoor living space. This is a way to create multiple conversation areas instead of clustering all of the seating in one cramped area.

If you have a flat lot, seat-height retaining walls can be used to define the space and provide overflow seating. Typically, seat walls built on flat lots don’t have a back rest, unlike seating built into taller retaining walls.

Gathering Spots

You may notice permanent seating most often constructed around a fire feature such as a fire pit or outdoor fireplace. Around a fireplace, the seating typically fans out in a semi-circle to enclose the space, but still leaves plenty of room for patio furniture directly in front of the fireplace.

The real magic of permanent seating happens around a fire pit. A round fire pit naturally lends itself to a circular arrangement of benches. Surrounding the fire pit with masonry benches (especially if they have a back rest) will help hold heat in the space for a cozier experience. Permanent seating keeps the space clutter-free, it allows everyone around the fire to enjoy the warmth, and it can accommodate anywhere from one person or 20 close friends.

Other Options for Permanent Seating

To consider other areas where permanent seating would be an instant winner, think about your entryway, where it could offer a warm welcome to guests; around a treasured old tree, where a comfortable bench invites you to relax with a good book; in a meditation garden such as a Japanese-style zen garden; in front of a flower bed; next to a water feature or sculpture; and even along a walkway, to offer a chance to rest and admire the landscape.

The biggest appeal of permanent seating could be aesthetic, since it eliminates clutter. It also creates attractive multi-functional spaces. For example, a seat wall can surround a small herb garden next to an outdoor kitchen—providing both overflow seating and a convenient chance to sit comfortably while tending the herbs.

And speaking of clutter, permanent seating is an opportunity to integrate landscape lighting without stand-alone fixtures that clutter the landscape. 

Permanent seating can also be used to define spaces. If you have a large patio that feels too big to be cozy, consider installing a few permanent benches or seat walls where they serve double duty as “walls” and as seating. 

For extra charm, consider installing a small pergola over each of your permanent seating areas. This simple addition can transform your outdoor living space into a cozy retreat everyone will love!

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