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A path is often the last thing to be thought of when a garden is being created - 'oh, we must be able to get to the shed/washing line/garage/dustbin'. So the pile of old concrete slabs left over from when the terrace was altered are set out along the worn muddy track. This functional 'desire line' serves its purpose but wouldn't it be more fun to think about letting paths contribute an extra layer of textural and visual delight to our gardens?
While planting schemes and garden structures, obviously, set the scene, it is the paths which can engender an atmosphere and will encourae exploration. They also determine the speed of preambulation.
Compare how the path with the cobbles (pictures left) laid in line rushes ahead, while the traditional brick path seems more leisurely because the courses run across its width. The modern paver path has a static feels because of the basketweave pattern.
Width is also a crucial factor. If the grass path (pictured below) had been narrower, then, because of the straight lines, there would have been a strong, fast pull towards the white bench. However, because of its very generous width, there is a wonderful sense of leisure, of being able to saunter gently along enjoying the spring flowers with the distant promise of a rest after all the exertion.
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