Paving Wonderful Walkways Creates Curb Appeal | McLean, VA

Nov 28, 2013 | Pavement

Stone paver walkway surrounded by brown mulch in front yard

McLean, VA

Walkways should be considered as more than just a way to get from one place to another. People will see a lot of your yard while they are walking across it. So why not make the journey more visually pleasing by landscaping the walkway?

If you are planning a new or redesigned walkway there is much to be considered, from the course it will take to the materials it’s made out of. If the walkway is already in place, you can greatly enhance it with lights, plantings and other landscaping details.

Walkway Design

This will largely depend on what the walkway will be used for. If the walkway will be connecting the sidewalk or driveway to the front door, it will probably need to be straight or gently curved. A walkway through a larger area, such as the backyard, may meander to give a wandering feeling, while showcasing various points of interest.

Pavers

Pavers come in varying sizes, shapes and colors. They are excellent for creating patterns in walkways and steps, and are strong enough to be used in driveways. Pavers can define gentle curves around trees and bushes, creating a feeling of adventure to the walkway as it winds its way to its destination.

Flagstone

Flagstone has a wide range of textures and character. It adds a beautifully rustic look, and can be used to chart a natural looking path across the landscape. Individual stones can be surrounded by gravel, grass or other natural materials. Flagstone has a rough enough surface to allow excess rain water to run off, giving better traction in wet weather.

Plantings

Plantings can be used to define the borders along a walkway. Flowers of various colors and varieties artfully arranged along the way make for a cheerful journey. Strategically planted large plants and hedges add a sense of mystery to the grounds by breaking up the landscape and obscuring the view beyond the next bend in the path.

Landscape Lighting

Lights along walkways give nighttime charm and safety. Down lighting will illuminate the way, including potential hazards, while lending a gentle glow to the surrounding landscape, setting the stage for an enchanting evening stroll.

Terrain

Varying terrain can be artfully integrated into the design. It can be used as a valuable feature instead of an obstacle to be overcome. Hills can add a rugged drama, with walkways stretching around them or steps climbing over them.

Walkway landscaping is an often overlooked feature that can turn an ordinary looking yard into an elegantly shaped space. A walkway can be a showpiece in itself. And as people travel along it, it adds to the appreciation of the house and the rest of the landscape.

At Johnson’s Landscaping Service, we have the dedicated landscape architects and design professionals to bring out the best in any landscaping project. We tailor every design to the desires and needs of each client and the available outdoor space. Contact us for a free site visit. We will listen to your ideas and help you to create the best design for your landscape.