Foot traffic and gathering.
A walkway should make the natural route across a property easier to use. A patio needs enough usable room for its intended activity and a clear connection to the house, lawn or other outdoor areas.
Grade and drainage.
Changes in elevation and the way water moves through a site affect where built features make sense. Discuss these conditions early, particularly for a remodel or a project that meets existing surfaces.
Tie it into the landscape.
Planting, lighting concepts and sprinkler coverage may affect the edges of a hardscape project. Share photos of the site and examples of the look you prefer so the feature can be considered in context.