One of the most important design elements in a garden is structure. It’s easy (ok, it is a little bit of work!) to add structure by adding paths and walkways. They give the eye a place to rest, follow, and let you lead visitors throughout the garden. Classic DIY garden walkway projects can be done in a weekend, and can seriously up the anty on any garden design. Even adding a simple pathway from the street to the front door adds value. Direct the garden wanderings, keep visitors out of special areas, and lead to the important focal points and recreation areas of your yard with a walkway.  We’ve done a few posts on casual, creative paths, but it was time to make sure you all had the classic options as well. Try out these projects to give your garden a smart framework and foundation.

Learn how to lay a paver or flagstone walkway from ‘BHG’… instructions for three different options of pathway.

 

‘Paint Speckled Paw Prints‘ transformed their existing “paver in the grass” walkway into one laid into rock for easier mowing… Make sure you scroll down to the end of their post and see the photo of the front yard with the finished path… Big improvement! I would have chosen a different rock, but I’m probably biased against red lava rock… saw too much in my youth in California…

 

Another idea of the same type of project… with a different mulching material between the pavers! This walkway project is by Danielle from ‘Life Be Green‘…

 

Find out how to lay a slate walkway from ‘Young House Love’… This one looks so high end!

 

How to lay a brick path, from ‘This Old House’. This is a great choice for a more traditional home…

 

Also from ‘This Old House’, how to lay a gravel path. I would use this material for a more casual home, but remember to choose gravel that compacts together for easy walking. Round pea gravel is not easy to walk in!

 

And number 7 is how to build a concrete walkway, by ‘Family Handyman’… This is the most permanent solution, so make sure of your placement before you take this one on. Good luck with adding a walkway to your garden!