Don’t Forget to Look Down!

The intent of this blog is to simply initiate more careful consideration regarding the surfaces we use throughout our landscapes for movement and relaxation (paths and patios!). Of course we have a vested interest in including beautiful plant material to beautify our gardens and landscapes but we certainly need to address function and flow throughout the landscape. We spend time and money dedicating space to turf, plantings and their maintenance. This should also occur when considering paths, patios, fences, decks, retaining wells, etc. This blog focuses primarily on path and patio surfaces (see photos). After establishing needs for surfaces, do your homework and research prior to committing to a significant expense. This involves considering materials, dimensions and layouts for paths, patios and other features that would require the installation of “hardscaping” materials after appropriate and sufficient site preparations. Some common materials we consider in our landscapes include concrete, bricks, concrete pavers, gravel and a wide range of other materials. These materials can add color, ornamentality, patterns and extreme visual interest. Detailed surfaces that use multiple materials or transition between materials help attract the eye. A change in hard surface materials may indicate a transition to another portion of the garden or a new space entirely. There are pros and cons to using just about any material and of course, budget will be a factor. Once we establish the square footage of a certain path or patio, it can be daunting to apply a “per square foot” multiplier to gauge the total cost including installation. Reputable and experienced installers can give you a fairly accurate quote for the materials and installation. I highly recommend using someone who has significant experience (supported by testimonials!) with the style and materials you might be considering. Do-it-yourself approaches can work but I would recommend having some experience with the style and materials utilized with your project. I installed my own flagstone patio at home and wish I had approached it a bit differently. The project was significant enough that I don’t envision re-doing the patio itself. Proper installation leads to the longevity of that feature, thereby maximizing your investment. This wide range of photos bounces between different materials but shows ways to create ornamentation, guide flow and augment the landscape. Some of the images show surfaces that are specific to a thematic garden (i.e. Asian-themed) and are artistic accomplishments.