9. Corten Steel and Board-Formed Concrete Retaining Planters
Sloped yards or flat expanses gain structure and tactile interest from contrasting, industrial-grade planter walls.
- Materials: Juxtapose the rough, textured finish of board-formed concrete—which reveals the natural wood grain of the timber forms—with the rich, oxidized patina of weathering Corten steel.
- Terracing: Use stepped planters to tame hillsides, creating elevated planting beds that bring greenery closer to eye level.
- Foliage Pairing: Contrast the rust and gray tones with deep emerald Japanese maples, boxwood spheres, or cascading silver ponyfoot (Dichondra argentea).
