10 Retaining Wall Ideas for a Sloped Backyard

A lush shade garden with stone retaining walls and staircase. — Credit:
Jennifer Photography Imaging / Getty Images

Retaining walls are hardscaping heroes, making challenging locations more workable and preventing erosion in your outdoor space so it stays safe. In sloped backyards, retaining walls are especially important; whether you’re dealing with hilly terrain or a steep rocky edge, they can stabilize the overall landscape.

These walls aren’t purely practical either. There are myriad styles to choose from that can boost the aesthetic appeal of your space, whether through stacked stone or layers of greenery. Here, a few to inspire your next big project.

Nahal Sohbati, landscape designer and co-founder of Topophyla
James Crisp, AIA and founder of Crisp Architects
Marci Bonner, landscape architect at Richardson & Associates

01 of 10

Use Natural Stacked Stone

Stacked stone retaining wall with hydrangeas — Credit:
Rob Karosis / Crisp Architects

Stacked stone is a classic choice that can last for hundreds of years.

"Unlike solid poured walls, it doesn’t overpower the space," says Nahal Sohbati, landscape designer and co-founder of Topophyla. "Instead, it holds structure, while keeping a natural, locally relevant feel."

02 of 10

Create a Terraced Wall

Terraced Retaining Wall near pool — Credit:
Caitlin Atkinson / Topophyla

When there's a need for a larger barrier, Sohabti prefers to break the wall into a few smaller sections that step with the slope.

"This approach works with the existing landform rather than against it, limiting the need for excavation and fill," she says. "It also supports natural drainage, lowers construction costs, and reduces long-term maintenance."

03 of 10

Strengthen With Concrete

Brick and Concrete Retaining Wall — Credit:
Rob Karosis / Crisp Architects

Concrete can be paired with more eye-catching materials for extra support.

"This can look exactly like a natural, hand-laid stone or brick wall, but has the power of reinforced concrete, which allows for a taller wall that's able to accommodate variable soil types," says James Crisp, founder of Crisp Architects.

04 of 10

Top With a Stone Cap

Retaining wall with stone cap home exterior — Credit:
Rob Karosis / Crisp Architects

A stone cap is ideal for more formal locations and creates a clean-cut appearance.

"If the height of the wall is around 18 to 20 inches, it can also be used as a seat wall if the location allows, since the smooth cap is comfortable to sit on," says Marci Bonner, landscape architect at Richardson & Associates.

05 of 10

Implement Deep-Rooted Plants

Retaining walls with a natural look — Credit:
Caitlin Atkinson / Topophyla

Walls don't have to do prevent erosion on their own—thoughtful plantings can also play a supporting role.

"We look for deep-rooted plants and ground covers that have evolved in naturally eroded or disturbed environments," Sohbati says. "These species often have deep roots or rhizomes or spreading habits that help hold soil in place, and quickly cover exposed ground."

06 of 10

Reuse Boulders and Rocks

Boulders used for retaining wall — Credit:
Caitlin Atkinson / Topophyla

Embarking on a renovation? The boulders or rocks that you uncover can be reused to build retaining walls.

"It’s a simple way to preserve the natural character of the landscape, while also reducing costs and the carbon footprint of the build," Sohbati says. "Using what already belongs to the site tends to create a design that feels more grounded and integrated."

07 of 10

Pair With Planting Beds

Planting beds at top and bottom of retaining wall — Credit:
Topophyla

Plantings at the top of a retaining wall create a visual cue for guests; planting at the base reduces maintenance needs.

"The plantings themself can reflect the style of the house or preference of the owner," says Bonner. "A formal hedge of boxwoods or hydrangeas is beautiful, and a classic look. A mixed perennial border creates a more casual, colorful style."

08 of 10

Create Curves Using Fieldstone

stone garden wall — Credit:
track5 / Getty Images

One of Bonner's favorite retaining wall designs is dry-stacked fieldstone, where the stone used for the face of the wall is also used for the cap, lending a more informal look.

"The construction of this type of wall can curve and meander, creating more interest," she says.

09 of 10

Give Concrete Texture

Concrete retaining wall — Credit:
Caitlin Atkinson / Topophyla

One of Sohbati's favorite ways to use concrete is by repurposing it, giving the yard a sense of history and personality.

"Old concrete slabs or construction waste can be stacked to create striking, low-impact, functional retaining walls," she says. "It can also take different textures, using finishes like board-forming (to imprint wood grain), seeding, or scoring."

10 of 10

Save Space With Timber

On a budget? Timber is a practical alternative to pricier materials.

"It's more affordable than stone or masonry and takes up less space. However it's not as attractive, so tucking it into a plant bed is the best option," Bonner says. "Timbers are [also] limited to straight runs, so being creative with the shape isn't usually possible."