Transit between two areas of activity on the ground, reception for our guests or design element aimed at emphasizing a point of interest in our garden, the paths are at the heart of the creation of a landscaping. A few infallible tricks and certain rules of the art for a beautiful garden path are in order.
A width proportional to the space
While 36 inches is the standard width for a hallway inside a house, this width may be insufficient for an exterior passage. If space permits, 48 inches would be a more suitable width for an outdoor sidewalk. It is also important to consider the size of adjacent spaces depending on the desired effect. Thus, a narrow path in a large space will amplify the effect of length: you will want to widen it in proportion to the terrain.
What materials to choose for a beautiful garden path?
Depending on the function that the path will fulfill, the choice of materials will be different. For example, for the construction of a front garden path, materials with a more uniform surface (pavers, slabs or smooth stones) will be recommended to facilitate snow removal. For the development of a path located in the backyard , it will be possible to let one’s creativity express itself more by allowing more varied textures… Especially if one uses our path mainly during the summer. Thus, in order to lighten the design, one can arrange a driveway of large slabs with grass joints.
In addition, a mix of materials and textures in the layout of your garden path will bring a touch of refinement to your composition. One thinks among others of the herringbone patterns, classic, but which are becoming very popular again. Mixing natural materials and precast concrete is also permitted. For example, it is possible to opt for a beautiful pattern of natural stones bordered by smooth pavers, thus offering a contrast of textures to your garden path.
Rhythm and focal point
A garden is a story that is told to those who use it. Arrange the edges of a path with trees, shrubs or perennials to give rhythm to the space and to accompany the walker. This rhythm can also take the form of path lights which also play an important role if you want to enjoy your garden in the evening.
A focal point at the end of an aisle or an aisle that leads to a focal point? Both are worth it! When laying out a pathway that leads to an inground pool, positioning a small tree with contrasting foliage as a focal point can make all the difference to the experience. Do you have a sculpture that reminds you of a trip to Europe? Find a special place for it in your yard and stage it with a path that leads us to it.
Standards for a job well done
The durability of what we build must be the basis of our concerns. Be aware that technical standards exist! Refer to BNQ standards (bnq.qc.ca) and choose a landscape contractor who follows these quality rules developed for the Quebec climate.
Sensory experience
The feeling of the user will be very different depending on the material chosen for the layout of your garden path; we think here to take into account not only sight, but also hearing and touch. If you walk on a flagstone path at the side of the house and find yourself walking on gravel once you get to the backyard, the sound will change and the feeling under your feet will change, giving a peaceful effect.