Choosing New Paving

A natural stone paver pathway is an ideal way to introduce a beautiful inorganic substance into your garden. You'll need to select between various rock varieties and also decide on the layout and scale of the trail among other things. Here are some tips on designing your creation.

Mixing Patterns And Paver Size 

Some popular patterns, such as the ashlar design, combine differently sized and shaped tiles. This pattern uses a mixture of large and small square and rectangular stone pieces that adds liveliness to the path. Otherwise, you could blend different designs. For instance, cover the middle of the track with a herringbone schema while setting the edge pavers lengthwise, toe to toe. 

For an artistic impression, contrast small tiles with larger tiles. For example, lay large square mid-grey pavers along the path, then create a border of two-by-two tiny square dark grey ones, forming a narrow band with a jewel effect. Once this pathway reaches a patio, you could cover that area in natural stone pavers set in a diagonal herringbone design. 

Material Combinations 

Mixing materials will add visual interest and variety to your track. For instance, you could lay rustic bluestone slabs, forming a stepping stone path, and fill the spaces in between with a range of cream river pebbles. You can use paver size in creative ways. For example, heading towards steps at your backdoor, rectangle pavers could get progressively wider, the closer they get. This will create a sense of dynamics and movement. Other approaches to enhance appeal are to contrast irregular crazy paving set within cement against narrow rectangular pieces placed along the border.

Straight Or Curved 

Consider whether you'd prefer a straight, geometric pathway or one that gently winds through your garden like a river through the countryside. A meandering path echoes the curving lines within nature and thus will give your track a rustic feel. Factor in the overall style of the landscape, though, when planning the layout. In a classic garden, paths are often straight and geometric, supporting a symmetrical design. For instance, four pathways might branch out from a central water fountain, two on one side and two on the other. 

Your garden's aesthetics might not be the only consideration, however. If your path is primarily functional, providing access to a shed filled with bicycles, lawnmowers and tools, you might prefer a trail that takes the most direct, straight route to its destination.

For more information, contact a natural stone paver supplier.