Hardscaping 101
South African Garden and Home|April 2023
Not sure how to utilise hard landscaping in your garden? We've got you covered
SUSANNA PARKER
Hardscaping 101

Hard landscaping is the cornerstone of any garden design. Before a single plant is put in the ground, the paving, stairs, edging, raised planters, fences, walls, retaining walls and water features should be in and ready to form the framework of the garden. Choosing the right design, the correct materials and possibly the help of a professional are essential to building the backbones of your garden. We'll cover all the options to help you make the right choice for your space.

PAVING 

Pavers are incredibly versatile in the garden, providing flat areas and pathways that invite people to explore or sit and enjoy. The good thing is that most paving can be done without heavy machinery or buckets of cement. There are also many different styles, shapes and colours of pavers to choose from.

Before you get started, decide what look you want. Pavers can be butted up against each other with just a bit of river sand brushed into any crevices, or gaps can be left for grouting. You can also add decorative pebbles or ground cover plants.

Most important when doing your own paving is preparation - make sure the area is level and has a solid base before you begin. In high-traffic areas such as pathways or patios, this is of even more importance to avoid tripping hazards. In this instance, it's advisable to grout the paving to make it a smooth surface. If you plan on doing the paving yourself, use a builder's line to keep everything level. Prepare the surface by packing it down and adding a layer of river sand to adjust and place pavers.

STAIRS 

Esta historia es de la edición April 2023 de South African Garden and Home.

Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.

Esta historia es de la edición April 2023 de South African Garden and Home.

Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.

MÁS HISTORIAS DE SOUTH AFRICAN GARDEN AND HOMEVer todo
Winter Warmer
South African Garden and Home

Winter Warmer

Properly insulated homes are the next frontier for South Africa in a world of higher energy costs and a harsher climate

time-read
3 minutos  |
Garden&Home; July 2024
Carved in MARBLE
South African Garden and Home

Carved in MARBLE

Use marble around your home to create an instantly luxurious feel

time-read
2 minutos  |
Garden&Home; July 2024
A Lesson From The Animal Kingdom
South African Garden and Home

A Lesson From The Animal Kingdom

Not all of us are graceful ballet dancers or stylish fashion followers, but we can still stake a claim to elegance

time-read
2 minutos  |
Garden&Home; July 2024
Nature's Hidden Harvest
South African Garden and Home

Nature's Hidden Harvest

Clutching a bovine bolete deep inside a pine forest, Ryan Enslin discovers nature's bounty as he unearths her hidden gems and edible treasures

time-read
7 minutos  |
Garden&Home; July 2024
PAPER BRIQUETTES
South African Garden and Home

PAPER BRIQUETTES

Fuel your winter fire with these home-made briquettes made from recycled paper that you would otherwise throw away. Each brick burns for up to 1.5 hours

time-read
1 min  |
Garden&Home; July 2024
WINTER DOS AND DON'TS HOUSEPLANTS
South African Garden and Home

WINTER DOS AND DON'TS HOUSEPLANTS

Winter houseplant care is not complicated, but there are a few essential tips to follow to keep your plants alive until spring arrives

time-read
3 minutos  |
Garden&Home; July 2024
In The Garden
South African Garden and Home

In The Garden

July Garden To-dos

time-read
3 minutos  |
Garden&Home; July 2024
ELEGANT AGAVES
South African Garden and Home

ELEGANT AGAVES

Low-maintenance and always looking their best, you can't ask for much more from these showstoppers

time-read
2 minutos  |
Garden&Home; July 2024
MIRROR UPDATE
South African Garden and Home

MIRROR UPDATE

Turn any old or plain rectangular mirror into luxe home decor with this simple and beginner-friendly DIY

time-read
1 min  |
Garden&Home; July 2024
LOFT LUXE
South African Garden and Home

LOFT LUXE

This Cape Town loft remodel, inspired by Balinese living, shows how much of an impact minimalist design can make in small spaces

time-read
4 minutos  |
Garden&Home; July 2024