How to Use Hardscape Genius

A complete guide to designing your perfect stone patio

Design Guides

Fire Pit Patio Design Guide

Everything you need to know to design the perfect fire pit patio - from safety clearances to stone selection and seating arrangements.

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Getting Started with the App
1

Print Your Measurement Marker

Before uploading stone photos, you'll need to print a special measurement marker. This marker helps our system accurately measure your stones' real-world dimensions.

Download Measurement Marker PDF

Printing instructions:

  • Print at 100% scale (no "fit to page" or "shrink to fit")
  • Use standard 8.5" × 11" paper
  • After printing, verify the ruler measures exactly 10cm
  • Consider laminating the marker so you can reuse it for all your photos
  • Place the marker in frame when photographing your stones
2

Upload Your Stones

Take photos of your stones from directly above (bird's eye view). Make sure each stone is clearly visible and well-lit. Our AI will automatically detect and measure each stone.

Example of stones photographed from above with measurement marker
Example: Stones photographed from directly above with measurement marker visible. You can upload a photo with as many stones as you can fit in the frame - the system will identify, measure, and label each individual stone.

Tips for best results:

  • Use natural lighting or bright indoor lights
  • Place stones on a contrasting background and with a gap between stones
  • Avoid shadows and reflections
  • Keep camera parallel to the ground
3

Review & Organize

Once uploaded, review your stone collection. Label your stones with chalk according to the numbers generated during the upload process.

Stone collection showing numbered stones after processing
Each stone is automatically numbered for easy identification
4

Design Your Layout

Create a new patio design and start arranging your stones. Drag and drop stones into place, rotate them, and experiment with different layouts until you find the perfect arrangement.

Patio design workspace showing drag and drop stone arrangement
Drag and drop stones to create your perfect layout
5

Cut & Customize

Need a stone to fit a specific space? Use our virtual cutting tool to see exactly where to cut before touching your actual stones.

Demonstration of virtual stone cutting tool
Virtual cutting tool helps you plan cuts before touching real stones
6

Export & Build

When you're happy with your design, export your layout and follow your plan to build your perfect patio in real life!

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