How to Choose the Right Decorative Aggregates for Your Outdoor Space
When it comes to transforming your garden or outdoor space, few materials offer the versatility and visual impact of decorative aggregates. From sleek decorative stones to classic garden gravel, these materials provide a practical, low-maintenance way to enhance pathways, borders, and driveways. If you’re planning a garden makeover or looking for fresh landscaping ideas in Dorset and beyond, here’s a helpful guide to choosing the right decorative aggregates for your space.
Firstly, What Are Decorative Aggregates?
Decorative aggregates are natural stones used to enhance outdoor areas. They come in a variety of sizes, textures, and colours depending on where they have been sourced from. This makes them perfect for everything from modern patios to rustic countryside gardens. Popular varieties include:
How to Choose the Right Decorative Aggregates For You
1. Consider what you are using them for:
Before selecting your aggregate, think about where and how it will be used. For example:
- Driveways need durable, angular gravel like our 20mm limestone chippings to prevent them getting caught in tyre treads. It’s important to note that Golden Cotswold looks great, but is not suitable for driveways as it is too soft.
- Pathways need material that isn’t too large, for stability underfoot you ideally want something 20mm and below, most decorative aggregates fit into this bracket, our 10mm to dust when compacted gives a great, stable estate style look.
- Flower Bed Coverage – Slate is ideal for looking great whilst also keeping weeds under control. Shingle is also a popular option.
2. Match the Style of Your Garden
Your choice of aggregates should complement your garden’s overall aesthetic:
- Modern monochrome spaces: Sleek slate chippings or limestone chippings.
- Traditional cottage gardens: Shingle, Cerney Gravel, Limestone Chippings
3. Think About Colour and Texture
Aggregates come in a broad range of colours and textures. Lighter tones can brighten shaded areas, while darker stones add depth and contrast. Mixing textures, like combining fine gravel with larger decorative stones (like gabion stone), can create visual interest and can be a great way to define different areas within your garden.
So, What Are You Waiting For?
Adding decorative aggregates to your outdoor space is a simple, cost-effective way to boost kerb appeal and enhance your garden’s functionality. By considering the purpose, style and colour, you can select the perfect materials to suit your landscaping vision.
Whether you’re installing a gravel driveway, creating a tranquil seating area, or refreshing your garden borders, there’s a world of landscaping ideas waiting for you. Get inspired and start transforming your outdoor space today.
