Garden Steps

A change in level in a garden adds interest and provides the opportunity for another garden design feature: a set of steps. The nature of those steps will depend on the physical situation as well as the aesthetics of your overall garden design. Remember that steps in the garden are different from steps indoors. Instead of designing outdoor steps to climb in as little space as possible, make the climb gradual (experts recommend a slight rise of 4- 5 inches with a comfortable deep tread of 12 inches), with landings or change of direction every 12 or more steps, In addition to making the steps less taxing to climb, a shallow rise makes it possible to run a wheelbarrow up and down the stairs; a ramp will help if you need to make frequent trips with a wheelbarrow.

STEPS ALTER THE PACE

Use steps to help regulate how people move through the garden space. People tend to walk faster on steps with low risers and wide treads than they do on steps with high risers. Curved steps naturally slows people down. If possible, make the steps wide enough for two people to walk side-by-side (minimum 4.5 feet wide). Broad stairs look more inviting and elegant than narrow set of steps.

BALANCE THE COST AND LOOK

Cost will surely be a factor in choosing the design and materials for your garden steps, but while considering budget, also keep in mind the look of the final result. Railroad ties or landscape timbers are relatively less expensive, but used incorrectly, they can make a space look less formal. Steps near the house should complement the architecture and style of the building and style of the garden, Farther away from the house, especially if the garden becomes more informal, choosing steps made out of less expensive or more natural materials, such as beach pebbles or logs.

CONSIDER SAFETY

Regardless of the style of the steps, keep safety  and function in the forefront of the mind. As a general rule, the steps should be as wide as the path leading up to them. Uneven steps with risers that vary in hight and treads of different depths are dangerous to negotiate.

A safety rail or a handrail should be considered even if the steps are not as steep as those built indoors. As an added safety and comfort feature, slope the tread ever so slightly so that water does not collect and pool on the steps themselves. If possible, choose a nonslip or porous material to make the steps. A final suggestion, though more expensive, is consider outdoor lighting. There are MANY options to create backdrop and forefront light allowing guests to stroll through the garden and on the steps in the twilight hours of an evening.