Augmented reality (AR) lets users overlay digital information on the real environment, which helps landscaping designers plan hardscaping projects such as fountains, sculptures, statues, benches, bird baths, and planters. This technology lets designers visualise and make adjustments before construction, saving time and money.

AR helps designers visualise how the arrangement of different elements will look in the final space. For example, a designer can use AR to set a virtual fountain in a landscape and adjust its size and style to see how it looks. This is useful when working in difficult locations or trying to match a specific aesthetic.

AR landscaping design allows for real-time modifications. Conventional design methods require designers to prepare numerous drawings and make modifications on paper or in software. AR lets designers instantly adjust the virtual landscape and observe the results. This can save time and resources compared to traditional design processes.

AR can be used to collaborate with architects and engineers on the design team. For example, an architect can use AR to preview how a sculpture or statue would look in a specific place in the building and make adjustments. This can ensure that all team members agree and that the final product meets stakeholder needs.

Clients can also have interactive and immersive experiences with AR. A landscaping designer can use AR to create a virtual tour of a finished hardscaping project, allowing clients to walk around and see how different pieces will look in the final landscape. This can help clients who have trouble visualising a project from drawings or renderings alone.

AR also allows landscape designers to construct virtual prototypes. This is ideal for intricate or large-scale hardscaping projects. AR lets designers test and alter elements of the project in the virtual prototype before construction. This reduces errors and saves time and resources.

AR also cuts building expenses. A designer can use AR to preview a fountain or monument before its construction. This can uncover issues before construction begins and avoid costly errors.