Garden Design Material Choices
Natural Stone
Paving - material choices
Natural stone can be very expensive. Many people prefer its aesthetics, and it is the traditional option. However, importing stone from certain areas may raise ethical questions - sustainability of quarrying and child labour to give a couple of examples. Stone is often chosen based on porosity - too porous and it will hold water, become slippery and grow slime. You may not be abe to take all suppliers at their word for this measure, unless it has been checked independently. Read more »
Reconstituted Paving
Paving - material choices
Reconstituted varies widely in price and quality. At the top end, reconstituted paving looks very similar to natural stone, without the disadvantages described above, but may approach natural stone in price. Look out for reconstituted paving that has been cast from natural flagstones, as these give a very realistic look Read more »
Paving and the law
Plants for your garden
When designing your garden, try to cover less than half the
area in
impermeable stone or paving. Flooding is a risk in many areas and
overenthusiastic paving has increased this. From 1 October 2008, UK
homeowners will have to apply for planning permission if they want to
lay impermeable paving to more than 5m2 of their front garden.
Read more
»
