Patios: less is more

The temptation to over-curve

Don't be tempted to put in that extra curve. Often with a patio, less is more.

Clients frequently ask for curved paths, patios, ponds, walls, and lawns. These features can look really good when done appropriately, but misplaced curves create problems. A colleague of mine calls it "creative meandering", and once you've seen it, you can't unsee it.

One sweep, not six

The issue is that too many curves make everything look fussy. A single sweeping curve appears strong, purposeful, and much more natural in appearance. It also costs less to build.

We subconsciously analyse hard landscaping constantly. A well-placed curve feels right. Six curves fighting for attention feels wrong, even if you can't immediately say why. Getting the shape right at the design stage saves money, time, and regret.

How to test your curves

If you're planning curved features, here's a practical approach. Buy some marking-out spray paint and lay the shape on the ground. Then go upstairs and look down at it from a window, or step back far enough to see it objectively.

Wait at least twelve hours before deciding. What looked exciting at 3pm can look entirely different at breakfast. The goal is a shape that appears naturally created, not forced.

A single confident curve will always look better than three tentative ones.

Planning a new patio or hard landscaping?

Getting the structure right at the design stage saves money, time, and disappointment.

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