Gardens are only as good as their foundations: the soil, the water, and the growing environment all play a part. In these garden shots by Art in Green, we see another dimension of outdoor living foundations — the flooring elements that complement lawns, flowers, and other landscape ingredients. A solid ipe or other wood decking adds greatly to the beauty and usability of outdoor rooms, enhancing al fresco dining or even just relaxation in lounges next to a pool. And speaking of pools, don’t forget the impact that quality glass mosaic designs can have on the appearance of your entire outdoor area. Colors of mosaic tile run the gamut from classic blues (seafoam to royal and beyond) to colorations that match poolside flowers or the nuanced brick tones of a house.
Like mosaics, colored stone increase visual interest in your outdoor rooms. A concrete driveway is solid and utilitarian, while a cobblestone surface adds an extra degree of nostalgic charm. Sandstone can make for a softer look on a driveway and an undeniably rustic feel to retaining walls, flower garden paths, or walkways from a back deck or patio to the lawn. Concrete stepping stones can be rectangles that bridge a water feature (always a fun touch) or random shapes that meander through violets; colored concrete can even provide a stunning mosaic-type effect of its own, mimicking the look of far more expensive and/or fragile surfaces with very practical everyday durability. So, as you put together your dream garden, remember to start it right from the ground up…with some great Garden ideas from Art in Green.