Hardscaping

A major decision in garden design is choosing the right paving option for your garden. 
In the end, the choice is a matter of preference and style. Everyone has a different taste, so get creative! 
Here is a little guide to explain some of the options available.

Common hardscaping materials include concrete, brick, stone, wood, and pavers. 

Concrete

Concrete is a relatively cheap option that is very versatile. Instead of having a poured concrete sidewalk in your yard or garden, why not try concrete pavers? They are less susceptible to cracking and because you can have grass or stone between pavers this option helps eliminate run off.

Brick

Brick adds a classic look to your garden. You can stick with the classic deep red or try brick in a variety of colors. There are also endless patterns for brick laying.

Stone

Stone is another great option for hardscaping. It can be used as your main material or in addition to other materials. Common stone available for hardscaping are flagstone, sandstone, slate, limestone and quartzite.  Stones permeability makes it a good environmentally friendly option. 

Wood

Wood is typically used in hardscaping for fences, walls, and decks, but wood chips can also be used to create a rustic looking pathway.

Pavers

Almost any stone type can work as a paver, but the most commonly available options are either sandstone, limestone, slate, or granite. Pavers can be laid in a connected pattern or spread out with sand, gravel or even greenery between them to create a permeable surface for water to seep through.

There are many hardscaping options out there for your garden space. There is much room for creativity. You can stick with one material or mix many. Recycled materials are also a great option. You could use old glass bottles or salvaged building materials. Have fun with it!