Paths

Design considerations when planning garden paths

When planning the path consider the following:

• Paths should ideally be a poured material such as poured limestone or poured concrete with a non slip surface. Painted stencils can be used to create non slip surface with a brick or stone pattern. Avoid using block paving or slabs that may move and create trip hazards.
• The path should be visually well defined and commence at the entrance to the garden and lead back to the exit from the garden back into the building.
• Use a darker colour along the edge of the path to ease way finding and encourage people to remain on the path. Do not use darker shades at transition points or junctions as these can be perceived as level changes or steps.
• Ensure adequate hand railing exists if path levels change or you wish to guide people along the path to ensure they do not walk into high risk areas.
• In a residential care garden the path should be wide enough to comfortably allow two people in a wheelchair to travel around the garden side by side, ideally around 1400mm wide. In a home garden two people side by side, ideally around 1100mm wide.
• Place seating stop-off points every 15-20 metres along the path to ensure adequate rest opportunities.
• Minimise slip hazards on the path by regular clearing of leaves and jet washing of any mould or moss that may be growing on it, especially in damp shady areas.