It doesn’t matter where you live or the size of your outdoor space, combining artificial grass and rock landscaping can create stunning, functional, easy-to-maintain spaces to level up your outdoor living. That’s because stone and synthetic grass share a few important traits. They need less water than traditional grass, they’re super low-maintenance, and they’re fantastic (and flexible) design elements to build your dream-lawn around. So let’s get open-minded, get inspired, and get to learning 10 ways to combine artificial grass and rock to make your own unique outdoor space!
Why Go With Artificial Grass and Rock Landscaping?
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- Beautiful, Diverse Aesthetics: stone and synthetic turf look great year-round, and can be combined in a wide range of styles
- Low Maintenance: say goodbye to mowing, watering, and weeding (saving time and money)
- Water Conservation & Eco-Friendly: fake grass uses less water and doesn’t need pesticides
- Pet/Family-Friendly Durability: this combo is perfect for pet owners and families—resisting ‘accidents’, spills, and foot traffic
- Cost-Savings: while initial costs can seem high, synthetic grass is cost-effective long-term
Now, are you ready for some rock-solid ideas that’ll make your neighbors green with envy?
1. The Putting Green Paradise
You don’t have to be a hardcore golfer to appreciate the beauty and fun of a backyard putting green. I mean, who doesn’t love a round of putt putt? Start by rolling out some beautiful artificial grass. Maybe you want a simple, flat surface. Or you can take it up a notch by creating gentle slopes and curves. Then bring in pea gravel to create beautiful edging and a few large stones for artistic accents. Add a soothing water feature or fountain to fully recreate that real golf course vibe. Chefs kiss.
And what’s the great thing about a backyard putting green? Even when you’re not actively using putting, it just looks fantastic!
2. Zen Rock Garden Bliss
Need a little bit of inner peace in your outdoor space? Well, still your mind and embrace the tranquility of a Zen rock garden by combining artificial grass and rock landscaping elements.
- Create a base of artificial grass for beautiful, care-free maintenance
- Designate gracefully-curved areas filled with pea gravel
- Arrange larger rocks to mimic the flow of water
- Use a rake to find your zen as you draw patterns in the pea gravel
- Add a cozy seating area for meditation or chatting (or napping – no judgment here!)
Pro tip: Toss in a copper fire bowl for those chilly evenings when you need to contemplate life’s big questions, like “Should I have that second slice of pizza?”
3. Kid-Friendly Play Zone
As a parent, I know the struggle of keeping a lawn intact with little tornados running around. Here’s a solution: create a natural-looking and safe play area from artificial grass and rock landscaping! You’ll love this creative way to give your kiddos a safe space to unleash their energy without turning your yard into a mud pit.
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- Start with a soft, durable artificial turf
- Add colorful (eco-friendly) rubber mulch under play equipment for extra safety
- Incorporate large, smooth rocks for climbing and imaginative play
- Create a border with river rocks to separate the play area from adult zones
Functional fun for the kids? Check. Unexpectedly attractive for your lawn? Check. Perfect for giving you peace of mind? Double-check.
4. The Ultimate Pool Surround
Show of hands: who loves fishing grass clippings, dirt, and mud out of your pool? Anyone? Oh, no one? Well, an artificial grass and rock combo around your pool area is a game-changer. Artificial turf acts as a lush, green border for your pool that stays perfect year-round. Then identify areas to incorporate small pebbles or river rocks. They help with area drainage and look great! Then, install a few large, flat rocks as stepping stones to the pool.
Finally, add a few elements to fit your vision. Built-in lights are great for nighttime swims and ambiance. A stylish, modern patio seating area gives you a place to chill as your friends, kids, or guests splash around. And bonus? No more slipping on wet grass or dealing with muddy feet. Everyone wins!
5. Drought-Resistant Rock Garden
Here’s some inspo for those of you who live in a dry climate. Embrace the beauty of a rock garden with pops of green from artificial grass. You get to have your cake and eat it too – but with rocks and fake grass instead of cake. (Although … cake is always a good idea.)
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- Use a variety of rock sizes and colors for visual interest
- Incorporate drought-resistant plants like succulents and cacti
- Add strips or patches of artificial grass for a lush contrast
- Create meandering pathways with stepping stones or gravel
This low-maintenance design will have you spending more time enjoying your outdoor space and less time watering and weeding.
6. Modern Minimalist Marvel
So, who are my cool cats who love clean lines and sleek designs? Well, get your artificial grass and rock landscaping notes ready. Here’s an idea to make those minimal dreams come true.
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- Install large concrete pavers in a geometric pattern (ideally in a light color)
- Fill the gaps between pavers with artificial grass for a striking contrast
- Add a few strategically placed boulders or sculptural rocks as focal points
- Incorporate LED lighting for a futuristic nighttime vibe
Now you’re space is more than a backyard. It’s a swanky modern art museum style space for enjoying elegant cosmos and convos.
7. Pet Paradise
We love our fur babies, but we’d also love to ditch those muddy paw prints and yellow grass spots. Fake grass and rocks are a great way to create a space that’s safe and fun for your pets. Since artificial grass and rocks are both durable and safe for cats and dogs, starting with pet-friendly turf is the way to go. Designate a “potty zone” using special odor-resistant turf and treatments. Then delineate your space with rock borders (that help prevent digging). Now finish your outdoor space with a shallow water feature that includes some smooth river rocks.
Your furry friends will have a blast, and you’ll spend less time cleaning up after them. Tail wags and “good boys” all around!
8. Backyard Sports Arena
Why trek to the park when you can bring the action to your own yard? Create a multi-sport zone with artificial grass and sturdy edging.
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- Install a high-quality sports turf for year-round play
- Use rock borders to define different areas (e.g., soccer, badminton, cornhole)
- Add a small seating area with boulder “bleachers” for spectators, complete with an outdoor umbrella or pergola for shade
- Incorporate shock-absorbing underlayment for safer play
Game night just got a whole lot more interesting!
9. Secret Garden Nook
Let’s be honest, when we were kids we all wanted a secret space, am I right? Let’s indulge our inner-child and make a hidden retreat using rocks and artificial grass.
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- Build a curved pathway with artificial grass and stepping stones
- Use large boulders, a rock wall, or a trellis with artificial foliage to create a secluded area
- Add a cozy seating nook with synthetic turf or pea gravel flooring
- Think of a secret password and club hand-shake
Now, you have the perfect spot for reading, daydreaming, scheming, or hiding from your in-laws. (Did I say that out loud?)
10. Rooftop Oasis
No lawn? No problem! There’s no reason for you urban dwellers to be left out! If you only have access to a rooftop or balcony, you can still bring some beautiful green to your outdoor living.
- Cover the main area with lightweight artificial grass
- Use planters filled with rocks and succulents for a low-maintenance garden
- Create a lounge area with comfortable outdoor seating and a small fire pit
- Add string lights for a magical evening atmosphere
Who says you need a sprawling yard to enjoy the great outdoors? I say work with what ya got to make the artificial grass and rock landscaping space of your dreams.
The Wrap-Up
Embrace some creative outdoor living with these 10 artificial grass and rock landscaping ideas. Putting greens, pool surrounds, and pet-friendly play areas are just a starting place. Let your creativity go wild, and find some artificial turf professionals who can help your dreams become a reality. The Artificial Turf Supply team is just a phone call away: (866) 677-9405
And if you’re ready to determine your budget, our turf quote tool is free and easy to use.
