Garden Pathways

Garden paths are an all-too-often overlooked feature of our properties. While their main purpose is to plot your journey from A to B, the right path will help your outdoor space shine. Spend a little time considering which landscape designs could work for you, and you’ll be reaping the rewards for years to come. Whether you want your path to provide a clear walkway between home and garden, or you’d like it to wind around your flower beds, the best designs can ensure your outdoor space works more effectively as well as ramping up the charm factor.

 

Your garden pathway should strike a balance between function and style. We’ve pulled together the best garden path ideas – from simple, decorative tips for a low budget to bigger renovations that will keep your garden looking great for years to come.

 

1 CURVED WALKWAYS

Although the lifespan of your garden path depends partly on the materials you use, the shape of it has the ability to inject the whole area with a dose of character.

If you appreciate creative quirks more than straight, clean lines, build on an informal garden design by creating organic shapes and large, sweeping curves for maximum effect.

Designs that incorporate curves not only look more interesting, they also make the overall space feel bigger than it actually is. Make the most of these shapely walkways by growing a variety of plants along the edges – it’ll invite your guests on a journey to see what lies around the bend.

2. STRAIGHT LINES AND ANGLES
Use geometry to transform a lacklustre space into a cutting-edge landscape that incorporates different shapes to create interest, define boundaries and add focus to your space. A path design based around straight lines can add drama and elegance, as well as providing much-needed function.

From basic, simple two-dimensional forms to complex symmetry and decoration, the use of shape and linear designs take conventional rules and adapt them to create interest and movement. Modern, three-dimensional design incorporates raised beds, differing heights and positioning of boulders or sleepers to create a clean, fuss-free look.

3. STEPPING STONES

Stepping stones are a great way to add interest and practicality to your garden. Reminiscent of bygone childhood memories and imaginings of secret gardens, they’re also a fun way to bring personality to your paths.

Depending on how much space you have available, you can create intersecting pathways that play with colour and pattern to stunning effect, enticing your guests to take a journey around your garden.

However, you don’t always need masses of space – stepping stones are one of the best garden path ideas for small gardens, too. Even just putting two or three stepping stones down could create a look you’ll love.

Choose a stone that adds a striking look – like Scoutmoor sandstone with its blue and grey veining – and play around with possible placement options before coming to a final decision.

4. NATURAL PAVING

Looking to keep it natural by using stone in your garden pathways designs? The possibilities are endless. Stone paving can look fantastic in a range of different outdoor spaces – from classic to contemporary – because it varies so much in shape, colour and texture.

Natural paving can beautifully accent or complement existing features of your garden. Here, Fairstone Sawn Versuro Linear sandstone paving shows off a smooth, lightly textured surface and effortlessly blends neutral, calming colours to create a haven for relaxation.

5. CONCRETE PAVING

Versatile concrete paving can help create pared-back, understated and elegant designs – or equally, eye-catchingly dazzling walkways. A more traditional design might see them embedded in grass, or paving the way through the bursting colours of your garden – as Heritage paving does so successfully here.

A traditional material used in a contemporary style can brilliantly enhance a space, so for an ultra-modern look, consider positioning the pavers above the grass, sand or pebbles as part of an elevated walkway.

6. ATTENTION TO DETAIL

A garden path is made all the more interesting if there’s something to stop and look at along the way. While plants and flowers may do the job, it’s a good idea to consider the smaller details, too.

Whether it’s shapely boulders that catch the eye, a quirky bench that gives you a rest stop, or beautiful scalloped edging as seen here – these little flourishes can deliver a gorgeous finishing touch.

7. LIGHTING

Lighting is one of the most important considerations in any garden path design. The tone of your garden will determine the type of lighting that will suit it – be it subtle, dramatic or functional. Either way, it can really lift the atmosphere of your space and create a warm, inviting ambience. Discreet LED lights can subtly illuminate your garden without being overbearing – what’s more, they make an energy-efficient choice. Alternatively, you could choose to up-light trees, steps or other features of your garden using spotlights – but bear in mind the perspective from which you will be viewing what you’re lighting, and ensure it does it justice. There could be lots of reasons why you’re considering pathways ideas and updating your garden space this year. Maybe it’s for entertaining – perhaps you just want to make the most of the area. Either way, there’s plenty you can do to add interest and atmosphere.