Landscaping IDEAS for Walkways

Good landscaping can add as much as 20 percent to a property’s value. Part of that landscaping includes a way to access it, whether through walkways, paths or cultivated areas. Many people make great use of the area close to their home or building by installing wooden decks and then end up using a different landscape element to connect other areas of the space. However, by using wood decking for more than just the deck itself, like walkways, you may actually be able to save money, lessen the maintenance requirements and add greater dimension to your landscape’s design.

Wooden walkways and pathways are a viable alternative to things like gravel or pavers, and can help give you a beautiful, durable and maintenance free landscape that complements the rest of your property. These eight ideas for wood walkways and paths will help give you a better idea of what’s possible for your property.

1. Wooden Sidewalk

This arboretum needed a walkway that would lead guests down to seating and viewing areas by the water. A wood plank walkway complements the deck, while adding contrast to the metal railings and fences. Over time, the wood weathers to a beautiful silver gray that works well with the setting and surrounding nature. Arboretums are well known for their beautiful plants and foliage; using a natural wood walkway instead of concrete or stone helps to call better attention to the setting that the walkway is situated in.

2. Terrace Walkways

The outdoor dining area at this restaurant is surrounded by gravel, sand and water. A deck and walkway was needed to facilitate guests moving around the property and reaching the beach below, while complementing the beauty of the natural environment. They did so by building a series of wooden walkways from the same material as the deck; a modified softwood that will withstand the moisture in the sea air. Over time, the planks will take on a graceful, weathered appearance that will complement the beach setting, similar to the color of driftwood that’s been worn and washed by the sea. Natural beauty and superior performance characteristics were a must for this large deck and expanse of various walkways, making modified wood the right fit.

3. A Private Retreat

This home made the most of its yard and landscaping by featuring a very large wooden deck from which they can enjoy the outdoor setting. Winding around the property and framed with smooth river stones to contrast the wood, is a deck walkway that is flush with the ground. The wood structure’s clean lines mirror the ones of the home itself, to keep with the modern design create and yet add a sense of character and warmth.

4. Pool Deck Paths

Photo by Ed Kingsford Photography

The deck surrounding this private, residential pool is made of a beautiful, modified wood that has been technologically enhanced to achieve extreme durability levels and incredibly low maintenance requirements. To give the yard more versatility, the same wood is used to create wooden pathways leading to and from the home and other areas of entertainment. The way that the paths flow from the deck encourages natural exploration and fun. Furthermore the wood used, complements the trees and greenery perfectly, creating their own private paradise.

5. Mixed Materials

Photo by Salih Usta

This yard helps to showcase how different materials can be mixed when adding onto a space without feeling disconnected or out of place. Traditional patio pavers were used for the seating area near to the villa. However, when it came time to build the walkway and deck that was to surround the pool and spa, modified wood was chosen instead of concrete pavers. A decision most likely made for modified woods superior performance in applications prone to water and sun exposure, without requiring consistent upkeep. The result is a functional space with a clean, contemporary look that blends well with the rest of the landscaping.