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Which is the best path (to my parents' happiness)?

7 years ago

Hi,

My parents are looking at a few different styles for their garden path. It is a reasonably steep path so i have selected a bunch of examples to show them.

I am eager to hear from you on which would be safest (as they are nearly 70years old) and also the most attractive and durable.

Thanks for any advice!

Longfellow Drive · More Info

Project 1 · More Info

Concrete Garden steps · More Info

Exteriorscapes · More Info

Elegance in Design · More Info

Longfellow Drive

Concrete Garden steps

Elegance in Design

Featured Answer

telperien

7 years ago

A handrail will be good, whichever path is chosen. Aging, but not decrepit, parents will find broad, steady steps the easiest and safest to ascend. A zig-zagging path could provide landings, possibly with a chair or two, to rest or take a break on the way up and enjoy the view of the garden.

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Comments (9)

bigreader
7 years ago
I think you need to find some designs with a hand rail. They're all very pretty but maybe not be age friendly
oklouise
7 years ago
age will not be the decider it will be health and agility...the sloping gravel path is the least challenging slope ie sideways rather than straight up but needs firmly packed small gravel or crushed granite not boulders to be more comfortable ...
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PRO
Siobhan Donoghue Design
7 years ago
Lovely options. To be kind of your parents and to make sure they use it confidently it would be safer for everyone to install a lovely handrail. One never knows when they will need a handrail until its too late. Good design will always incorporate safety, functionality and beauty. My vote is exteriorscapes #4.
Dan
7 years ago
What about using a zigzag path to reduce the angle of the descent.

Handrail may also be a good idea.

Like this image but on a smaller scale.
Bernadette Staal
7 years ago
I love something about each and every one of them but they are not appropriate for people who may be fit now but one slip or accident and they will not be able to access their section at all. Strong, Sturdy, Uncluttered, Easy Clean (e.g. waterblast) is my suggestion. A handrail is a must and that can be done decoratively / rustic or modern. No one photo above is in my mind entirely suitable. You also need to look at the height of the tread and the size of the step (depth). I am in my 40's and have a major knee injury so I speak from experience in relation to steps. If you can have some level areas with a seat of similar to sit on along the journey that would also be nice.
southies
7 years ago
Love all the pics above but have to agree with Bernadette's comments above - handrail, low rise steps, deep tread area and a level area or 2 for resting. I am currently researching the exact same thing for my mother, for whom we are building a granny flat location of which is higher than our house.

Important to plan for frailty as your parents age.
pascoeyvonne
7 years ago
All the photos show lovely pathways, which are pleasing to the eye but in fact they could be dangerous for any age group. Project 1 would be OK if the stone had a flat, non-slip surface. The pebble pathway looks highly dangerous. Flat, non-slip surfaces and wide pathways with railings at several intervals would be best. If it's a long pathway, perhaps a seat or two for resting along the way could be added. The photo which Dan attached of the zig zag path makes the most sense.
Jo M
7 years ago
I agree, the paths look nice, but they all pose tripping hazard. steps need to be clear and stable. So no pebbles, they move around underfoot; and no plants in between pavers that can be tripped over ( and also slippery underfoot when wet). Good luck.
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