Where planted areas, other than lawns, meet hard surfaces include some form of raised edge to contain the soil and discourage cutting across the bed. Consider designing the edges so they can also serve as outdoor seating areas.

The raised beds in this Oakland, California project help protect the plants from foot traffic and, at the same time, help enclose the outdoor patios of individual units. 
(HismenHin-nu Terrace)

The edges of this children's play yard help define the play area and contain the sand while, at the same time, providing a well-designed seating area. 
(YWCA Villa Nueva)

Raised beds at different heights provide variety and help guide circulation in the courtyard of this Seattle project. 
(Cascade Court Apartments)

The edge separating grass and sand in this Los Angeles courtyard has been thickened to provide a seating area that surrounds the playground. 
(Willowbrook Green Apartments)

Modest stone edges provide a clear separation between the semi-private planted areas and the public sidewalk in this Boston project. 
(Langham Court)

Raised curbs separate plantings from circulation areas in this Boston courtyard. 
(Tent City)

Simple brick edges separate the front yard from the front walk in this Chattanooga single family home. 
(Orchard Village and Oak Hill)