Garden Surfaces

In the garden, surfaces have both a practical and a visual function. They are used for walking, sitting or playing on, and they also provide an area of rest for the eye, a space between the profusion of the planted areas. The visual element is particularly important as surfaces define the space and layout of the garden, and their design should be given a great deal of thought. The materials should be chosen with care; they should be sympathetic to their surroundings, taking into account the mood of the garden and the materials of the house and any other buildings or walls. Never employ too many different materials, especially in a small garden, as this will create a restless effect in an area usually dedicated to relaxation.

There are two types of surface: soft and hard. Soft surfaces, mainly lawns, are better for occasional use and dry weather, and for covering large expanses, as they tend to be easier on the eye than hard surfaces. Hard surfaces are best for constant use and wet weather, and for smaller areas of the garden. Generally speaking, hard surfaces are expensive to install but cheap to maintain, while soft surfaces are relatively cheap to create but expensive to keep in good condition during bad weather and heavy use.

For a garden to look its best, all surfaces, whether they are soft or hard, should be properly laid and well maintained. Being such prominent features, any carelessness will affect the whole garden.