Building a retaining wall is one of the most practical and visually impactful ways to upgrade your landscape. Whether you’re creating usable space on a slope, framing a garden bed, or adding structure to your outdoor area, retaining walls are both functional and beautiful. But if you’re new to hardscaping, there’s one big question to answer before you start: What blocks are best for a retaining wall?
In this article, we’ll explain what to look for in a retaining wall block, share our top recommendations, and help you choose the right one for your specific project. Whether you want sleek and modern or classic and rustic, Western Interlock has the right fit for you.
What Makes a Great Retaining Wall Block?
Not all wall blocks are created equal. The best ones combine strength, usability, and style.
Here’s what to look for:
- Structural support: A good wall block can withstand the pressure from soil, moisture, and weather over time.
- Interlocking features: Many blocks have lips or alignment tabs to help with spacing and long-term stability.
- Design versatility: Whether your space is modern, Northwest rustic, or somewhere in between, choose a block that complements your aesthetic.
Our Top Picks for Retaining Wall Projects
At Western Interlock, we’ve developed a range of wall blocks that meet these standards and make a DIY retaining wall approachable and long-lasting. Below are our favorite options.
Murata™ Wall
Clean, modern lines with modular simplicity.
Murata™ is ideal for structural walls and large-scale installs. Its rear alignment tab makes leveling and stacking easier, especially on longer runs.
Why it’s great:
- Tight joints and consistent alignment
- Works well with corners and steps
- Excellent strength for higher wall applications
Learn more about Murata™ Wall →
Chateau Wall™
Old-world charm meets Northwest durability.
Chateau Wall™ is treated to mimic the look of hand-hewn stone, making it perfect for decorative or freestanding walls with a rustic feel.
Why it’s great:
- Rich texture and timeless design
- Easily stacks without tools
- Pairs well with Chateau Diviso™ for accents or visual breaks
Learn more about Chateau Wall™ →
Chateau Moderna™
Modern aesthetics with structural integrity.
Chateau Moderna™ builds on the legacy of Chateau Wall™ with smoother edges and a more refined face. It’s the go-to choice for clean, architectural lines.
Why it’s great:
- Sleek, modern appearance
- Versatile for retaining and freestanding uses
- Pairs beautifully with contemporary outdoor spaces
Learn more about Chateau Moderna →
Tegula Garden Wall™
Traditional looks with layout flexibility.
Tegula Garden Wall™ gives you the feel of aged stone and is great for curved or segmented walls. Optional column and cap pieces let you personalize your project.
Why it’s great:
- Easy to work into curved designs
- Perfect for smaller retaining or garden walls
- Complements natural landscape styles
Learn more about Tegula Garden Wall™ →
NurseryStone®
Lightweight and ideal for small landscape walls.
NurseryStone® blocks are compact and easy to install—great for borders, planters, and low walls. Jumbo NurseryStone® provides extra size and strength.
Why they’re great:
- Lightweight and manageable for DIYers
- Stackable without specialty tools
- Simplified dry-stack construction with an attractive stone appearance.
Learn more about NurseryStone® →
How to Choose What Blocks Are Best For A Retaining Wall
Use these quick filters to find your best-fit block:
1. Wall Height
- Under 2 feet: Almost any block can work.
- Over 2 feet: Choose a structural block and plan for geogrid and drainage.
2. Wall Function
- Freestanding or decorative: Try Chateau Wall™ or Tegula Garden Wall™.
- Load-bearing or structural: Murata™ and Chateau Moderna™ are stronger options.
3. Design Aesthetic
- Modern finish: Go with Chateau Moderna™.
- Rustic feel: Chateau Wall™ or Tegula Garden Wall™ are ideal.
Installation Best Practices (Quick Tips)
From our step-by-step How to Build a Retaining Wall video, here are the key steps to ensure a long-lasting build:
- Excavate to the correct depth to bury part of the first course and lay a solid foundation.
- Compact your gravel base in 2” lifts to prevent future settling.
- Install filter fabric behind the wall to stop soil migration.
- Use a perforated pipe to ensure proper drainage
- Place geogrid at the appropriate height intervals for taller walls.
These measures protect the structure and preserve the look of your wall for years to come.
What Blocks Are Best for a Retaining Wall?—We’re Here to Help
The best retaining wall blocks don’t just hold back soil—they support your entire outdoor design. Whether you’re tackling a weekend garden wall or a large slope solution, choosing the right block is the first step toward a wall that’s functional, attractive, and built to last.
If you’re ready to start planning, explore our full Product Selection and visit DIY with WI for expert guides, videos, and tutorials to help bring your project to life.
