Creation of paths in the country from modern and improvised materials. Paths in the garden - photo of original projects Stepping path on the lawn how to make

29.08.2019

Etc. For the time being, it’s convenient for us to run on them, but now the rainy season begins, so what? .. We urgently have to look for old ones somewhere in the attic rubber boots, and even put on grandmother's galoshes. Disorder!

Let's take a look at ways to create solid garden paths that will last for decades, and they will look much more beautiful than the old cozy, but such unsightly paths.

For the construction of garden paths there is a mass ready-made solutions. What kind of species and now you will not meet for sale! It's just eyes wide open. But for summer residents with not very high incomes, the price of such material is very “biting”)) Therefore, let's look at simple and economical ways make paths in the country with your own hands from improvised material.

What to pave?

The question immediately arises: what to pave? A very successful design technique is to build garden paths from the same material from which a country house or cottage is built. Moreover, you probably have leftovers building material: , or . For example, if the basement of the house is lined with white stone, then lay out the paths that “run away” from the house to the garden with stone, and then the stone can be replaced with paving stones, or something else. If your country house, then in the design of a garden path with your own hands it is good to use a combination wooden beams with stone, porcelain slabs or gravel. A with brick house a solid brick path will be combined, only a paving clinker brick should be used for garden paths, because an ordinary building one will fall apart in a couple of years. In general, look around and be smart))

Do-it-yourself concrete path

Many summer residents, without further ado, build monolithic concrete paths. Durable, but so dull ... However, concrete paths can be ennobled: beautifully decorate them at the time of construction with colored mosaics, pieces ceramic tiles or . And to build such paths with your own hands in the country is very simple.

Having noted the width and length of the track, its bed is deepened by 8-10 cm.
Then they sprinkle it with sand to a height of 5-6 cm, compact the sand well and spill it with water.
After that, frames made of wood or plywood are mounted along the entire length of the bed, leaving a distance of 5-7 cm between them. The width of the frame should correspond to the width of the track. The most optimal and easy-to-use size of a wooden frame for concreting: 60x60 cm.
Then the frames are poured, and when it dries slightly, decorative elements are beautifully laid out on top (you can even use an ordinary shell rock).
After the path is completely dry (2-3 days), the ground between the plates is planted with unpretentious plants for the lawn. That's all)) - concrete walkway ready with your own hands.

Do-it-yourself garden paths from boards

The best material for creating a wooden walkway will be non-rotting wood.

Wooden paths are usually lift above the ground, strengthening them on durable massive beams, treated with a special composition from decay.
And the bars, in turn, are installed on a layer of gravel (5-6 cm).
gravel pre carefully align all over the garden path.
The flooring is not made end-to-end, but with a gap of 1-2 cm between the boards to provide a kind of "ventilation")) Thus, the boardwalk will last much longer.

This work is quite meticulous, but not difficult at all.

Do-it-yourself garden paths from wooden chocks

You can also build a garden path from wooden chocks or cross sections of thick trees, pre-treated to protect against decay.

For this:

According to the bed planned in advance, the paths are dug with a trench 5-6 cm deeper than the height of the chocks or wooden "rounds".
The bed is covered with gravel (2-3 cm), then with sand (2-3 cm), carefully tamped, watered abundantly and set the chocks in the bed as tightly as possible.
After that, gravel is poured into the gaps in half with sand and again watered abundantly.

The work is completed)) The result and technology for creating a garden path from chocks with your own hands is shown in the photographs:

1. Chocks are tightly installed in the bed of the track:

We install chocks in the bed. Photo from the siteinvestrussia-2012.com

2. Align the chocks in height with a sledgehammer:

Align height. Photo from the siteinvestrussia-2012.com

3. Finished garden path, where the chocks are already sprinkled with compacted gravel and sand:

Result. Photo from the siteinvestrussia-2012.com

Garden paths based on figured forms: a master class

This pretty DIY garden path is built using durable pre-made polystyrene molds, which are available everywhere in the free market.

The forms for the garden path themselves may look like this:

Their cost varies from 160 to 900 rubles. You and I will need at least 4 identical shapes.

You can choose suitable forms with the help of our market, where goods from different online stores are presented. .

Form for paving slabs Wave 189 rub WATCH
Russian Garden

Form for paving slabs Flower 249 rub WATCH
Russian Garden

Form for paving slabs Brick 179 rub WATCH
Russian Garden

Without brand Form for garden paths 60x60 cm 749 rubles WATCH
OBI

Operating procedure:

1. First, determine the location and width of the garden paths, using pegs and a rope for this. Here I want to note: similar forms, like puzzles, easily adjoin each other, and the size is, as a rule, 60x60 cm, which is quite enough for a narrow garden path. If you want to build a wider path - 1.2 m, then fold the two forms not along, but across the bed.

2. Now arm yourself with a shovel and dig a trench 8-10 cm deep along the planned bed. Tamp the ground well. To do this, it is better to use an electric vibrator; you can tamp the ground manually, but this will require a lot of effort. Pour a layer of crushed stone or pebbles (3-4 cm) into a well-packed trench, and pour river sand (5-6 cm) on top. Before laying the form, pour the sand abundantly with water from a hose with a spray gun. Then grease the molds with machine oil (for lack of it, you can use ordinary vegetable oil) and set them on wet sand.

Form in the trench. Photo from sameto.com.ua

3. Prepare a solution: cement - 1 part, sand - 3 parts and crushed stone - 4 parts. Add a special binding mixture for the foundation and, adding water, begin to mix the solution, bringing it to the consistency of thick sour cream. And to make your garden path shine with multi-colored paints with your own hands, add the dye of the desired color to the solution.

We prepare a solution. Photo from sameto.com.ua

4. Then fill the molds to the brim with a trowel, avoiding air bubbles, and then remove the excess solution with a pre-prepared plastic rail (an iron one can also be made for this purpose).

We pour the solution. Photo from sameto.com.ua

The solution will "seize" in 30-40 minutes, the forms can be carefully removed, shifted further along the path of the future track and repeat the procedure. Forms are removed from half-moist cement quite easily (unless, of course, you forgot to lubricate them))

We take the form. Photo from sameto.com.ua

5. While the solution is not completely dry, you can decorate the path with pieces of colored tiles, porcelain stoneware, beautiful pebbles or other material. You just need to press the jewelry a little into the cement, and after the solution has completely dried, they will hold very tightly.

Now the most difficult phase of work remains)) - to protect your newly created masterpiece from the encroachments of pets or pampering children, because cement mortar completely dry only after 2-3 days, and even then - subject to sunny weather. Therefore, think over "defensive measures", place signs with the inscription or temporary fences.

As you can see, building a beautiful garden path with your own hands is not at all difficult. True, you will have to work hard)) But you create convenience and beauty for yourself, and not for one year, so you should show diligence and imagination in order to eventually enjoy the fruits of your work. Good luck to you!

You may also find the following publications helpful:

Tracks on personal plot- this is not only the protection of shoes from dirt and peat dust. Hard coating sets interesting game balance between man-made and natural components of landscape design. Making garden paths in the country with your own hands is more than realistic. Learn how to plan them correctly, compare the advantages of paving materials, get acquainted with the technology of laying paving slabs on a sand cushion, evaluate the options for decorating a paved canvas with borders and flowers.

Layout of paths in the summer cottage and in the garden

To break down the functional system of movement in their garden, they take a site plan or draw it on a scale and mark two groups of objects on it:

goals - significant places, which you need to easily approach: a gate, a garage, outbuildings, a gazebo, an alpine slide, a recreation area, a greenhouse, open ground beds;
obstacles - objects that will have to go around: trees, mounds, relief depressions.

Fantasy terracotta with small bushes and leaf pattern

Further on the plan, observing the scale, paths are outlined, trying to get by with a minimum number of them, since each one takes up the useful area of \u200b\u200bthe garden and the entire plot. It is recommended that you work on multiple projects so you can compare drawings and designs.

A small mosaic among uneven slabs will not let the eye get tired

What are the nuances to consider when planning tracks

The ergonomics, durability and impeccable appearance of these garden objects are influenced by a number of factors:

tracing. When laying the route, the main paths are first marked: from the gate to the porch, from the house to the garage, utility block, vegetable garden, garden. They are made as straight as possible, since they are designed for the quick walking of a working person. The remaining passages - side ones - branch off from the main ones and run around the entire site. They serve for relaxation and therefore can be of any length and degree of sinuosity.
Width. No one wears crinolines anymore, so the need for Versailles avenues has disappeared, but the dimensions of the paths should still allow people walking towards them to disperse or walk arm in arm. 80 cm is taken as the minimum width. The main garden path is made even more free, 120-150 cm, so that a wheelbarrow or bulky furniture can be transported along it.
Cross slope. Accumulating rain and melt water erodes some types of coatings and creates dirt. The smaller the gaps between the paving elements, the more important that the water goes to the sides, for which the middle of the coating should rise slightly above the edges.

Elevation design

Any kind of garden paths can be hopelessly mutilated by the roots of closely growing trees. It is desirable that at least 2 m of space remain between the tree trunks and the edge of the canvas.

Visual effects of paving

Any line in the landscape creates a certain visual sensation. You can achieve interesting visual effects using design methods:

Curvature. Straight as arrows, paths are typical for regular parks, their task is to organize order, symmetry, discipline and even pomposity. Winding, on the contrary, turn the garden into fairy world promise a surprise around every turn.
Color. The coincidence of the coating material with the finish of the basement of the house creates a stylistic unity on the site, but, in order to avoid boring monotony, it is worth choosing different shades for the building and paths in the same color scheme.
Paving pattern. Longitudinal laying of elongated tiles creates the illusion of movement, calls forward and visually lengthens the garden path. Cross paving shortens and expands it, makes you slow down and look around.

Square plates unfolded in rhombuses will create the impression of a diamond bracelet

Interesting effects that draw attention to the pattern underfoot can be achieved by combining materials and adding unexpected elements: shells, mosaics, leaf prints, low flowering grasses.

What can paths be made from?

A set of requirements is imposed on the material for paths in the garden, which is common for elements of landscape design:

availability and adequate cost;
elegant appearance and durability;
compatibility with common style buildings and gardens;
reliable performance;
safety for children and pets;
the possibility of combining in the process of work and repair in the future;
no insurmountable difficulties during installation.

Fantastic patterns can be made from ordinary pebbles

To determine how to lay out the tracks inexpensively and beautifully, consider the most different ways their paving.

Paths in the country from paving slabs

The popularity of paving slabs is due to its durability and resistance to seasonal temperature changes in middle lane Russia and north. Tiles are relatively easy to install and replace. Manufacturers offer samples of different shapes for paving paths: brick, square, wave, rhombus, hexagon, coil - which avoids monotony.

Paving slabs do not wear out, do not soften under the scorching sun, do not crack from frost, do not emit volatile substances. To clean the garden from fallen leaves and wind-blown earth, you can simply walk on it with a broom.

The more varied the shape of the tile, the more interesting the result.

Eco-friendly wooden walkways

Under the condition of a dry climate, you can lay out a cheap path in the country with your own hands from wood. Suitable for this purpose:

cross cuts of trees, half dug into the ground;
boards, timber and pallets;
bamboo stems;
garden parquet.

Boards seem to be laid directly on the grass

The disadvantage of such materials is their low resistance to moisture, so any wood is treated with antiseptics and bituminous mastic, and drainage is carefully prepared before laying. It is better to raise the wooden flooring above the ground, laying it on metal supports, then it will be blown from below and will not start to rot. For additional protection, the flooring is painted or varnished.

Shredded bark and shells of coconuts can be conditionally attributed to the tree. They look original, but require a mandatory border and periodic backfilling. Another disadvantage of soft paths is that in wet weather, pieces of bark stick to shoes and are carried around the site.

Stone in the landscape - noble and natural

Walkways made of natural stone

The most durable, beautiful, aesthetic, but also the most expensive paving material in the garden is natural and artificial stone. It looks elegant, allows you to imitate the streets of ancient cities and mountain paths, goes well with rock gardens, fountains, waterfalls, lamps, flower beds and stone plinths of buildings.

Chipped natural stone, such as limestone, has a special shape and shade for each piece, so the paving turns out to be interesting and not fatiguing for the eye. The result of laying multi-colored pebbles or shell rock slabs with your own hands is always a unique work of art.

"Herringbone" brick resembles antique parquet

Walkways made of bricks for practical

This is an excellent budget solution if after the construction of a cottage or garage there is a lot of unused brick left. It can be used whole or broken into crumbs that will be nice to crunch when walking. The combination of different brands allows you to create a geometric mosaic, and use the darkest or lightest bricks as a border.

The disadvantage of conventional silicate brick is its low frost resistance. Repeated freezing and thawing for several years make it unusable. In regions with cold snowy winters, it is better to use a paving variety of clinker bricks in the garden. A special firing technology protects it from changes in temperature and humidity.

Using stencils on concrete creates the illusion of stone

Concrete walkways in different versions

Concrete is one of the cheapest materials for decorating a garden, but the long gray ribbons that the curing mortar turns into look dull and unpresentable. Concrete requires a fantasy approach:

application of special forms to create artificial stone imitating different breeds;
inclusions of pebbles, shells, broken tiles, colored glass;
mixing pigments;
gravel inserts and grass islands.

Leaf prints on concrete

Beautiful concrete alleys are obtained if large leaves are imprinted into a semi-liquid solution, additionally scratching the veins with a sharp knitting needle.

Gravel paths

As an alternative to stone, gravel is quite cheap, especially if there is a quarry or a company selling such material nearby. If desired, it can be removed and replaced with a different combination of colors and fractions. Gravel is ideal as a path to a rockery with flowers or a classic Japanese rock garden, but requires occasional backfilling.

Against the background of gravel, garden benches, lanterns and pergolas look great. It emphasizes the carved structure of ferns, the freshness of roses and the heaviness of metal. However, as a road surface, gravel is somewhat unstable: individual pebbles move out underfoot, and sharp edges prick through thin summer shoes.

A chain of concrete circles in a river of gravel

We make tracks with our own hands

To properly make the tracks in the country with your own hands and at the same time get a really beautiful economy option, you need to calculate total area coverage, multiply by the cost of 1 sq. m of different materials and compare the numbers with each other. For some, the concrete remaining from the construction will be cheaper, and for some, natural stone will fall from the neighbor's shoulder for a third of the price. Below is a step-by-step instruction that can be applied to laying most materials, since the most important stage - soil preparation - is almost the same in all cases.

The pegs are hammered deeper so that they do not roll.

Step one - marking the area

For marking, you will need as many sharp pegs as possible, a skein of twine and a tape measure. On straight segments, pegs are placed less often - one per 8-10 m, on turns - more often. Steep bends in the garden are outlined with pegs every 15-20 cm. The width of the path is controlled with a tape measure.

At this stage, the site layout can be corrected, the functionality of the “transport network” under construction can be checked. To do this, you need to walk around the entire territory of the garden inside a stretched twine and understand how convenient the path to each significant object is and how effectively flower beds and other decorations on the site are visible.

When working on a hard surface, be sure to protect your knees

Step two - preparing the bed

In regions with negative winter temperatures, soils swell. In autumn, the clay is saturated with water, in winter ice forms in the garden, pushing the soil particles apart, in spring the melt water goes down, as a result, the coating elements lie unevenly. The classic way to prevent such a problem is to create a gravel-sand cushion that performs the function of drainage:

Inside the twine contour, the earth is taken out to a depth of 20-25 cm, at the same time removing stones, roots and debris.
The bottom of the resulting recesses is carefully compacted, especially on soft, for example, chernozem, soils. Given the amount of work, they use a gasoline vibrorammer, while the toes are protected by shoes with steel capes, and the ears are protected by tight headphones.
In the absence of such a tool, a manual rammer is made. She is a heavy log large diameter to which handles are attached from the ends.
The compacted bottom of the recesses is covered with geotextile to protect against the germination of weeds, the seeds of which remained below.

To organize the slope, the height of the pegs is checked with a level

At this stage, it is necessary to determine the slope of the paths, which will ensure the rolling of rainwater: will it be longitudinal (at least 3-5 mm for every 10 running meters canvas) or transverse. If the path in the garden, according to the plan, is crossed by communications (electric cable, pipes of the drainage system), they are being installed now.

Step three - installing the border

Edge banding will make it difficult to mow the grass later, but it is often used because it achieves several goals:

give the canvas a neat finished look and keep it for decades;
highlight the track visually;
do not allow the earth to crumble from nearby flower beds.

Installing a curb on concrete

As a border, you can use paving elements in a contrasting color, which are laid using the same technology as the rest. Roof tiles, even stumps, willow braids are simply dug into the ground so that they can be replaced.

The most difficult base is created for the curb stone. Under it, they dig grooves below the bottom level and fill them with 5 cm of sand. Then a small layer of concrete is poured and a stone is installed, checking the quality of work with a level.

Pavement for paving slabs

Step four - backfilling the gravel-sand cushion

Operating procedure:

Half the depth of the excavation is covered with gravel or crushed stone, the size of the fraction does not matter.
Gravel is covered with lightly moistened sand and carefully rammed.
The sand is watered until puddles form and left for 3-4 hours in sunny weather and for a day in cloudy weather.
When the water is completely absorbed, the sand is leveled immediately before paving. For this, a board is prepared, the length of which exceeds the width of the track. The board will move along the "beacons", which can be a previously installed curb stone.
If the level of the canvas is supposed to be below the edges of the curb, cutouts are made along the edges of the board.
In the absence of a curb, two pipes are placed in its place, one on each side, a board is placed on them with an edge and led along the path until the sand surface is completely leveled.

Alignment sets the quality of the future track

Step five - paving over the pillow

The arrangement of garden paths is directly related to the future load on them. Under the passage of wheelbarrows and other equipment, as well as under intensive walks a large number it is recommended to pave people on a sand-cement mixture (1:6). It is poured over a leveled pillow and re-leveled with a board along the “beacons”. In other cases, the coating elements are simply placed on the sand.

If a complex ornament is conceived, for example, from pebbles, its full rapport is first laid out nearby on the ground in order to get an idea of \u200b\u200bhow it will look like when finished. The same applies to the alternation of multi-colored bricks or tiles, stripes, various inserts and combinations of materials.

The first row of elements is laid along the twine stretched across the pillow and carefully rammed with a mallet. The presence and width of the seams between the elements depend on the selected material and pattern. Brick and tile are usually fitted closely. Rounded wood cuts in any case will leave significant gaps.

Using a hand rammer

When laying any material, do not forget about the transverse slope: the center of the web should be somewhat convex.

At the end of the laying, the self-made garden path is sprinkled with a sand-cement mixture and the seams are swept with a brush. To harden the mixture, it is moistened with light sprinkling.

Making tracks in different styles

Paths in the country house are not just a way to get to the greenhouse without getting covered in mud, they are a full-fledged design element of the site that can emphasize the beauty of the landscape and enhance the impact on the viewer's senses. Therefore, the general style of the garden determines how, for example, to decorate the path with flowers, lawn grass, lighting.

A country-style dacha is ennobled with paths made of uneven blocks of limestone or shell rock, between which ground covers are allowed. Astilba, rudbeckia, lavender, small lilies and sedge are planted on both sides. Reed grass, lobelia or a bright blue delphinium are placed in the background. Garden paths made of rare stones framed by curtains of cereals are often complemented by wooden benches and compact rose bushes.

Do you have a beautiful garden or cottage? Then take a look at these garden paths that can enrich the landscape of any space, give it a twist, the romance of an old park or the mystery of the wild. The paths on your property can and should evoke emotions, tell stories, and encourage inspiring walks. Therefore, in this article, we have collected 35 photos of different types of garden paths - in shape, material, size and design. Just scroll down, look at the beautiful gardens and save your best ideas!

Also read:

Choosing a shape for a garden path

When you are going to make a garden path with your own hands, you need to take into account a lot of factors: from the cost and quality of the material to the time required to complete the work. But nothing affects the result as much as the design of garden paths - that is, their shape and material. It is they who decide whether the site will ultimately delight your eyes, and it is them that we will consider next.

Clear geometric lines and angles create a contrast with the soft outlines of plants and give the garden a modern chic. Large rocks and tree beams create an organic connection to the land, while naturally winding paths captivate and spark the imagination. Let's take a look at the most common forms of garden paths:

Serpentine. The serpentine lines of the paths create a feeling of calm, because such a form is natural and organic for them. Such paths are especially good in the country, among big trees and lush bushes, where they literally drag you along, creating curiosity about what is around the next bend. Choose this trail shape if your garden is large enough and divided into sections that are not meant to be viewed all at once.

2. Straight line. This track option is designed to guide visitors quickly and efficiently. garden plot from one place to another. They are practical for a dacha or garden, but may seem too mundane in a garden plot intended for relaxation. To soften their excessive "straightness", such garden paths are left without a border and decorated with lush plants. Another option is to break the path into sections, between which moss or grass will grow.

3. Labyrinth. What could be more interesting than beautiful garden paths crossing each other with a certain rhythm? This way of designing a garden plot slows down walking, creating visual barriers, conveniently divides the landscape into sections and gives it a well-groomed look in the spirit of classic gardens. How are you?

4. Zigzag. This laying of garden paths is not suitable for everyone, but if you have enough large plot and are a fan of Feng Shui and Zen - then this is 100% your option. According to Japanese tradition, evil spirits cannot move at a 90 degree angle, so trails laid out in this way provide safety. In addition, this form of garden paths gives the site a meditative mood and, like a labyrinth, slows down the walk of the garden visitor, allowing him to enjoy nature. The best option for landscape design in modern or Japanese style!

Below we provide another photo of garden paths laid in a zigzag pattern. This time they are made of wood and somewhat raised above the ground, like a bridge. This option is not as easy to manufacture as the others, but it perfectly solves the problem of a sloped area. And how it looks!

The ideal size of the paths in the garden or in the country

Traditionally, most garden walkways are 1.2m wide, allowing two average adults to walk or walk side by side in the garden. In order for a group of people to walk and talk freely on the site, the width of the path should reach 1.5–2.4 m. The size of the path that you are going to decorate with a vase or other garden decor should be about the same.

At the same time, paths in a country house or a small plot of land can be much narrower - from 60 to 95 cm. However, when decorating paths in a country house, do not forget to take into account that you may also need fairly wide paths here - for example, when you will be transporting something on a wheelbarrow or move around with gardening tools in hand. For such use, the track must be not only spacious, but also more reliable.

Materials and design of paths (+ 29 photos of garden paths)

Consider the top 7 materials from which garden paths are made:

Concrete. The most popular and "flexible" material for garden paths. It is safe and low maintenance. You can simply fill the paths with concrete, lay them out with cement tiles, concrete blocks, or use a special mold to create your own garden paths (as shown in the next photo). For more unusual design Concrete garden paths are painted a contrasting color with greenery, divided into sections, or artificially created cracks from which grass will grow.

2. Stone and paving stones. The stone can give both classic and modern look landscape, depending on its shape, color and texture. As a rule, inexpensive types of stone, such as sandstone and limestone, are used for paths in the country. But even with them, your paths will acquire both a chic and harmonious look with nature. And how amazing the stone mosaic looks ...

3. Tiles. Tile is much easier to lay garden paths than stone or brick, but can mimic the look quite successfully.

And sometimes tiles — it's fun. With a rich selection of paving and cement tiles in stores, any fantasy landscape designer can be made a reality!

Gravel. What could be easier than how to make a garden path with your own hands from gravel? It looks good, is comfortable both on flat terrain and on steep slopes, and besides, it crunches nicely underfoot. Before buying gravel or crushed stone for paths, try to pick up perfect color and the size of the pebbles that will decorate your garden. The following garden paths in the photo demonstrate how their color can affect landscape design.

5. Brick. This material for paths is especially loved in the western corners of Europe. It does not have the natural charm of a stone, but is also able to give the site a unique spirit of antiquity. At correct installation(which, by the way, can be quite painstaking) brick garden paths are among the most durable. We also note that red brick perfectly emphasizes greenery, but for an ideal composition it should be combined with white elements of facades, a fence or other details of the site.

6. Tree. Lumber, whether solid wood or pressed boards such as MDF, is good choice for paths in the garden that will not have direct contact with the soil. As a rule, they are made like bridges (see photo below) or are laid on pebbles, which perform the function of drainage - that is, they pass water well, preventing the wood from being soaked with it.

7. Mulch.Soil mulching is widespread in the West, but today you can buy mulch for making paths from us. Mulch can include straw, tree bark, dry leaves, sawdust, and even paper. Like gravel, mulch is easy to lay on the ground, has a pleasant rustle, and is available in a variety of shades. But unlike him, it has a positive effect on the soil, while protecting and enriching it.

Also read:

Garden paths made of combined materials

For creative landscape design, different garden path materials are often combined. The key to creating a successful combination lies in the right juxtaposition. different forms, sizes, shades and textures. If at least one of these characteristics of the materials does not match, the garden will look confusing and incoherent.

Of the most win-win combinations, wood and stone are the first to come to mind. Usually they are chosen quite close in color (light stone + light wood, and vice versa), because. a sharp contrast between them is not particularly characteristic of nature.

Here the tile and gravel make a stunning transition from home to garden, don't you think?

Very interesting view your garden can be given paths of stone slabs with grass or moss between them. one hundred% the right way give an old charm to the site!

And of course, the stone can be perfectly combined with gravel close to it in color. In this case, the emphasis is not on a beautiful combination of textures, but on how small pebbles emphasize the expressive irregular shape big stones.

Also read:

Thanks for reading! And, as always, we welcome your comments! What is your favorite garden path design?

What garden paths to make in the country or plot (35 photos) updated: October 10, 2016 by: Margarita Glushko

It is impossible to imagine a suburban area without suburban paths: they not only connect the house with other objects, but also perform an important decorative function. By choosing the right material, you can create a harmonious picture in a single style, and by building paths in the country with your own hands, you can turn several acres into a unique and comfortable area.

The main reason for dividing country paths and paths into types is the material from which they are built. Its diversity allows you to choose the best option for landscaping.

Natural stone is distinguished by natural beauty and nobility, but its price is quite high.

Natural stone ideal for building curved paths: stone elements are arranged in a chaotic manner, so it is easy to make smooth bends

Wood is great for rustic landscaping.

The natural textured pattern on wood saw cuts depends on the type of wood, but an interesting effect can also be achieved using special impregnations and varnishes.

Brick is a wonderful material, especially if the house is also built from it.

Ordinary full-bodied building bricks are not suitable for garden paths; it is better to use special sidewalk types that are not afraid of water and frost.

Will serve long and faithfully paving slabs or paving stones.

Using pavers different color, as well as a specific laying pattern, you can create an amazing original pattern that is suitable for your garden

Simple and inexpensive gravel paths are also appropriate in the garden.

Gravel is good not near a landscaped area around the house, but in a garden or near a stream - it blends better with wildlife

Concrete can be used to create unique road tiles.

In construction stores you can buy special plastic molds, which serve for the manufacture of road concrete elements with their own hands

By combining materials, it is easy to achieve a style match of the tracks with the surrounding natural and artificial objects.

You can combine completely different materials: natural stone and multi-colored gravel, wooden boards and river pebbles, brick and concrete

The location of the tracks, taking into account the landscape and climate

Paths are just as important a strategic part of a suburban area as a house, a garage or a bathhouse, so you need to think about their arrangement before building buildings and utility rooms. For convenience, it is better to draw up a diagram by drawing it by hand or using a computer design program. Having identified important points, it is necessary to connect them with paths - straight or curved, depending on the terrain.

It is better if all objects are present on the diagram, including a garden, a vegetable garden, greenhouses, a bathhouse, gazebos - the paths are the connecting element between them. The material for the construction of communication lines should be combined with buildings and surrounding decorative elements.

Paths in a summer cottage do not have to be of the same type: solid and step-by-step, straight and curved options are perfectly combined

When drawing up a diagram or site plan, you can indicate which plants and shrubs will be planted - this will help when choosing material for building paths

If it rains frequently in your area, be sure to consider drainage system and dig plums along the edges of the roads so that water does not stagnate. Doing the construction of country paths with your own hands, remember: freezing, water will spoil the material - wood, brick, concrete. Powerful trees should not grow near the pavements, as their root system will easily violate the integrity of the roads.

The more detailed the preliminary planning, the brighter the picture of the future will be. country landscape and the easier it is to come to the choice of design elements

Analysis of the 3 best budget options

The owners of villas and luxury cottages will most likely not bother with sand and stones, but will invite a well-known landscape designer and a team of specialists. Anyone who is independently engaged in arranging a garden knows perfectly well that it is not necessary to use expensive natural stone or collectible paving stones to build original and convenient paths. Therefore, we will consider three options for creating paths from affordable and inexpensive materials: cement, brick and wood. Be sure the result will surprise you!

Option # 1 - a trail of cement leaves

Lovers of short-cut lawns will never exchange silky green grass for dense thickets of shrubs or a flower garden, and even more so they will refuse the path that crosses the luxurious carpet in front of the house. But there is a tricky option in which you can maintain the integrity of the lawn and at the same time arrange a kind of path that allows you to cross the grass cover directly.

Decorative concrete leaves are just an option that can be replaced with other elements: human footprints, geometric shapes, animal silhouettes

To build a miracle path, you will need an ordinary one and a plant that can be found somewhere nearby - burdock, or rather, its large leaves.

Burdock leaves can be replaced with any other, as long as they are large. As an option - the use of several differently textured leaves

In a small container, knead the solution according to the instructions and spread the thick mass on a large leaf of burdock. Why not a form to fill?

Make sure that the cement mortar has the required consistency: too thick will lie unevenly, and liquid will not retain its shape

After the sand-cement mixture has completely set, the sheet is removed. We get the original decorative tile - the main element of the track.

As you can see, nature turned out to be the best decorator - a decorative leaf with a natural pattern will not disturb the harmony of a lawn or garden

It remains to prepare a place for laying. With the help of a scoop or a small spatula, carefully remove a piece of sod so that a shallow hole forms.

The advantage of arranging a step-by-step lawn track is that there is no special tool: for example, a baby scoop is enough to make holes

We lay the tiles in the prepared nest, then do the same with the rest of the elements. The path turns out to be light, airy, harmoniously complementing the lawn. It is pleasant and safe to walk on beautiful decorative leaves even in rainy weather.

Option #2 - Solid Brick Walkway

Brick is a versatile material. You don’t have to think about how to make a path in the country if you have the necessary amount of this durable material at hand, as if specially created for the construction of reliable coatings. Its advantage is that it is ideal for almost any cottage style. Red bricks, like gray ones, look amazing against the background of a building made of a similar material, blend perfectly with wood, harmoniously fit into the natural environment. One piece of advice - you need to use only special, paving material.

The advantages of brick are obvious: it is durable, lasts for decades, is easy to install, does not slip even in the rain, and has aesthetic value.

Main stages of construction:

Determination of boundaries and extraction of soil.
Preparation of sand and gravel base.
Filling voids with sand.

The width of the trench depends on the size of the bricks and the pattern that will be laid out of them. The minimum width of the track is 0.9 m. We define the boundaries and mark them with pegs with a stretched construction cord. We take out the sod and tear out a shallow trench. Its edges must be strengthened with boards - in the next two years they will serve as an additional emphasis for the curb. Then they can be taken out, and the grooves can be covered with gravel chips or pebbles.

The brick base consists of two layers. The lower one is gravel and coarse sand. After backfilling, the gravel mixture must be evenly distributed along the entire length of the track and compacted.

Determining the depth of the trench for laying a brick path is simple: you need to add up the thickness of both layers of the base and the dimensions of the brick itself

Compaction of the gravel layer is required: loose material will provoke the movement of the remaining layers and, as a result, will destroy the brick surface

The top layer consists of one sand. While leveling it along the track, press at the same time so that the layer becomes dense enough. It is better to compact segments of 20-30 cm, so the base will be of better quality.

Having made a sand backfill, it is necessary to level the surface: pull special device while simultaneously pressing on it so that the sand lies in a dense layer

The next step is laying bricks along the boards. Before laying each element, dig a small hole, then place a brick in it and adjust its position with a wooden mallet. Products placed on the end will play the role of a border.

To “hammer” bricks into the sand, it is better to use a special rubber hammer: metal or even wooden can damage the structure of the material

Given the laying pattern, fill the gap between the curbs with bricks, lightly hammering them into the sand and checking regularly for level.

When focusing on a particular element, do not forget about the integrity of the path: regularly check the horizontal position of the bricks using a level

The last stage is filling the gaps between the bricks with sand. Carefully pour sand until it is level with the bricks. Water the path and repeat the last operation. In the next few days, you can adjust the position of the bricks.

An ordinary cleaning brush will help to evenly distribute the sand: with its help, you can easily move the sand over the surface and push it between the bricks

Option #3 - use wood saw cuts

If we compare a tree with a stone, then it will certainly lose: wood is not distinguished by the durability and strength of granite or marble. However, when arranging garden paths in the country, elements from this seemingly unsuitable material are used. Wood saw cuts, subject to the laying technology, are excellent “bricks” for creating a decorative path in a rustic style.

Choosing tree saw cuts, you kill two birds with one stone: you “attach” unnecessary cut trees and decorate the territory with a beautiful and practical path

An old tree can be found right in the country or in the nearest forest. We cut the trunk into small segments - from 10 to 20 cm thick. Thick branches will also come in handy - small round trees are suitable for decorating the site or the edges of the track.

When extracting soil when digging a trench, do not take it outside the cottage: it will come in handy to fill the voids of the path, and the remains can be used for a garden or flower garden

We cover the bottom of the trench with sand, a layer of 5 cm is enough. We tamp and level.

Spread the sawn stumps along the path: it’s easier to imagine how many they will need, and later it’s easier to use when laying

We lay out saw cuts on the prepared base. Using the level, we give them a horizontal position, a wooden sledgehammer or a large hammer is perfect for this. In some places, voids form - they can be filled with small cuts.

When laying large items, do not worry about in large numbers voids that remain between them: they are easy to fill with small stumps, gravel or pebbles

The gaps between the wooden elements are covered with sand or earth. In the spring, they can be planted with lawn grass or small flowers - this way the path will look more artistic.

To determine how to lay out beautiful decorative paths in the country, just look around. Do not be afraid to use your own technological secrets during construction and design solutions- then the summer cottage will become truly unique.

In addition to functionality, the paths in the country house play a huge role in the original design of the landscape. The presence of beautiful original paths gives the site sophistication, creates a positive impression of its owners.

Sometimes it is difficult to decide on the material for garden alleys in order to fully preserve the perfect harmony of the site, while not going beyond the available budget.

It is important that the material chosen for arranging the paths is in harmony with the style of the garden. So after drawing up the estimate documentation, as well as calculating the required dimensions, you can proceed to the selection of the most optimal material.

Natural stone

At the moment, natural stone is still considered one of the status and practical materials for various coatings.

Marble, sandstone, and also granite are applied. Focusing on the preferences of the owners of the site, a stone is selected in light or dark shade. Alleys made of stone have a variety of shapes, but they need professionalism when laying.

The stone, which is laid in plates, is incredibly in demand. It's called flagstone. Imitation is considered an identical and affordable option. natural stone, which is offered on the market in a variety of product range.

Alleys made of stone look great, in harmony with the trees and shrubs growing on the site. Natural stone goes well with pebbles.

Among the advantages of the stone, one can single out the durability of use, a high degree of resistance to mechanical influences, aesthetics, a variety of textures and configurations. The disadvantages include a fairly high price, slipperiness when the surface is moistened and crusting from ice in frost.

paving stones

Garden paths made of paving stones are in demand because of their durability, high resistance to temperature extremes.

A diverse palette of shades and a variety of configurations make paving slabs a versatile material used in a wide variety of design ideas.

Paving stones are easy to install and fit perfectly into the garden space of any shape. According to the production type, several types of paving stones are produced, therefore it can be sawn, as well as chopped.

The advantage is the versatility of use. Among the minuses - laying at a non-professional level can cause distortions.

Brick

Clinker brick is often used as a pavement for garden paths, as it is convenient in the laying process, fits well into any style area, and is presented in a variety of shades.

It is important to note that we are talking about clinker, since building bricks are not suitable for creating garden alleys.

Walkways made of wood

This type of garden path can hardly be called practical, however, additional impregnation, as well as processing, can increase their resistance to the negative effects of mold and humidity.

For maximum extension performance characteristics coatings, it is desirable to use it exclusively on dry hills.

The most suitable tree species for organizing alleys is oak, the rest of the array also has positive characteristics.

Inexpensive options for the price category are saw cuts, as well as bars, and a terrace board is a more expensive option.

Among the advantages of wooden alleys are originality and affordability. Among the shortcomings are impracticality, as well as instability to mechanical influences.

Alley of concrete

Filled concrete alleys are widely used in suburban areas. This coating is considered a barrier to weeds and has increased resistance to the negative effects of moisture.

Forms for such alleys are sold in any specialized store. With this type of fixture, concrete becomes a true design find. Using dyes, colored details are obtained, the forms provide for a specific pattern.

The advantages of concrete tracks include practicality and durability, as well as external originality, and among the minuses, the laboriousness of the workflow stands out.