If your garden path is looking more outdated than on-trend, it might be time to consider an upgrade. According to the experts at Homes and Gardens, there are 7 particular garden path ideas that are seriously past their prime and in need of a refresh. But the good news is, there are plenty of stylish new looks to try instead.
Out With the Old, In With the New
The days of simple gravel or basic brick paths are quickly coming to an end, says landscape architect Kevin Lenhart. "We're seeing a big uptick for 'the maximalist yard,' with lush plantings, flowers, and pops of color taking center stage." Lenhart reports a 64% increase in requests for vibrant, nature-inspired elements in outdoor spaces over the past year.
What this really means is that those stark, minimalist garden paths are feeling increasingly cold and uninviting. Instead, Lenhart and other designers are championing paths that wind organically through the landscape, using a mix of natural materials like stone, wood, and gravel to create a more relaxed, visually interesting look.
Saying Goodbye to the Straight and Narrow
Along with the move away from rigid, geometric designs, experts are also advising homeowners to ditch the idea of a simple point-to-point path. "Winding, meandering trails that encourage exploration are much more on-trend than a straight shot from A to B," explains Georgina Read of Paving Superstore.
The bigger picture here is that gardens are increasingly being viewed as spaces for relaxation and connection with nature, not just utility. Paths that invite you to slow down, discover hidden pockets, and immerse yourself in the landscape are far more appealing than the quickest route from the back door to the shed.
Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Choices
Beyond just aesthetics, there's also a growing emphasis on making garden design choices that are better for the environment. That means saying goodbye to water-guzzling plants, chemical fertilizers, and impermeable hardscaping that contributes to runoff issues.
Instead, designers are encouraging the use of drought-tolerant native plants, permeable paving materials that allow rainwater absorption, and natural mulches that enrich the soil. It's all part of a shift toward more sustainable, eco-conscious gardening practices.
The bottom line? If your current garden path is feeling a bit dated, it might be time for a refresh. By embracing organic shapes, natural materials, and environmentally-friendly design, you can create an outdoor space that's not just visually stunning, but also better for the planet. And expert advice from horticulturists like Melinda Myers can help guide you every step of the way.