Over the past few years, outdoor steps and walkways have emerged to be one of the most popular trends in outdoor landscaping. A well designed outdoor steps and walkways can improve the overall look of the home and boost the value of the property in the market as well. Now, if you want to give your home a modern and trendy look and increase its resale value, then you must be aware of the latest trends. Let’s explore some ideas that are not only stylish but also safe and secure.
Things to Consider When Designing Walkways and Outdoor Steps
When you are working with a landscaping consultant to choose the right design for your home, there are a few important factors that you need to consider. Here are the key ones:
- Safety – Obviously, safety should be your number one concern. When it comes to steps, make sure that they are of proper height. Keep the area properly lit as well.
- Durability – The steps and walkways will be exposed to the elements at all times. So, try to use durable materials that can withstand the pressure.
- Visual Appeal – As you know, outdoor steps and walkways are also impactful from the design perspective. So, you need to balance functionality with the appeal.
- Performance – Consider factors like foot traffic, and intended use to choose the right option for your yard.
Trending Walkway Ideas: Combining Style and Safety
Let us quickly look at some of the ideas that you can explore when you are searching for the right option that gives you the perfect balance between style and safety.
1. Natural Stone Pathways
Let us start with an all time favorite – the classic natural stone pathway. There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to materials and design.
If you want a rustic charm, you can choose flagstone, slate or bluestone. They blend seamlessly with your landscape and are generally considered to be safe.
To add some style, you can lay them in an irregular pattern to mimic the natural way.
2. Brick walkways
This is another popular option, that gives you the perfect blend of style and utility. They are durable enough, but if you want to add to that, you can use weather-resistant bricks and seal them to prevent moss or mildew buildup.
The most fun thing about brick walkways is that you can play around with the pattern. You can get them arranged in herringbone, basketweave or running bond pattern or try out your own unique design ideas.
3. Pavers
The biggest benefit of concrete pavers is the variety of colors, shapes, and sizes that you get. So, you can choose one that perfectly suits the design of your home.
Interlocking pavers are safe as they don’t shift over time. If they are damaged, they can be easily replaced and require little maintenance.
4. Gravel Paths
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, then gravel pathways is ideal. You can pea gravel or crushed stone to create charming yet informal pathways through your garden and yards.
However, gravel can spread across your yard and make it look untidy and also create certain safety issues. To solve that, use edging materials like brick, metal or wooden beams.
5. Concrete Walkways
For sleek and modern appearance, concrete walkways are a great option. You can customize them with stained finishes, stamped patterns or exposed aggregate for added texture.
Concrete is also highly durable, which makes it safe as well.
Best Design Ideas for Outdoor Steps
Now that we have explored some of the walkways ideas for your yard, let us look at some options that you can consider when it comes to outdoor steps.
1. Floating Steps
They are modern. They are sleek. They are minimalistic. These are all characters that make floating steps ideal for your home.
Floating steps made from large concrete or wood slabs create an airy and contemporary feel. Landscape designers often position them over gravel, grass, or even water features for striking landscape design.
2. Wooden Steps
If you have decks or sloped gardens, then having wooden steps can add a touch of warmth and charm to the space.
There are multiple options that you choose from, like treated lumber or composite wood, which can be used to prevent rot and weather damage. A great idea will be to pair wooden steps with metal or glass railings..
3. Illuminated Steps
Adding lighting to outdoor steps can improve safety while increasing the visual appeal at the same time. Putting LED strip lights under each step, solar-powered stake lights, or recessed lighting along stair edges can not only add to the overall look of your outdoor space, but also prevent trip and fall.
