Pathways are a fundamental part of any garden design. They can be as beautiful as they are practical, creating corridors that draw you to different parts of your garden. With various interesting shapes and materials available to suit your aesthetic, purpose, and budget, your only limitation is your imagination.
Paving bricks
A brick pathway is an enduring design feature that will add warmth and atmosphere to your garden. You can set your bricks in a stylized pattern such as herringbone or a basket weave or go for simple straight-ahead lines. Brick laying is skilled work, so it may be worth paying an expert to set it down.
Be sure to prepare your surface properly before you add the bricks. Set your brick path on a good foundation of 100mm of crusher dust or similar, a layer of heavy-duty fabric, and then 50mm of sand. The fabric lets water through, keeping the sand from sifting into the gravel.
Gravel pathways
Gravel is an excellent material to use in tropical, wet climates. It stops your feet from getting muddy and provides excellent drainage from downpours in the wet season. It is also resistant to algae, which can make it dangerously slippery. Provided you prepare your surface with fabric matting and a layer of sand or dust, these pathways should stand the test of time.
Mulch paths
If you are looking for an affordable way to create a natural-looking garden path, mulch is an excellent material. It is quick and easy to install and has the added benefit of keeping weeds at bay. Prepare the surface with some fabric and cover it with a thick layer of mulch. You could also make a border using corten steel garden edging to create the luxe version - or use rocks for an organic look.
Stone Steppers
Sandstone or basalt steppers are a great way to create a statement in your garden design. This classic, highly durable material will last a lifetime and requires little maintenance.
Consider design elements
When designing your garden path, consider design elements too. A long, straight path creates a more formal look, whereas a meandering path works in less formal landscapes. Sound and texture will also subtly influence your experience of wandering down the garden path. A crunchy gravel path is evocative of a rustic country garden, and smooth granite tends to feel more formal or urban. You may also like to add a focal point for the destination, such as a water feature or garden sculpture.
Plateau Landscapes is your landscape and garden superstore. We have everything you need to build your garden path!