One such element which instantly talks about the care and thought put into the garden is a bridge. Bridges can be practical, ornamental or a combination of both. Considerations for the practical bridge will be its end use (vehicular or foot traffic), and the span it needs to cover. The practical points should not exclude good design features or ornamentation.

In a garden situation a bridge is likely to be smaller. Its visual impact will be important and will only be limited by your creativity.

As with a hedge, a garden gate or an arbor, a bridge can act as a junction point between two different parts of the garden such as two outdoor rooms. Access to a deck via a small bridge gives that space a sense of destination, as if you are somewhere special.

The rails are an important part for defining a bridge. Rope, chain, timber and steel all have very different looks and uses as railings. Some are purely decorative, while others provide an important safety barrier. Check with council for railing requirements if the bridge is over 50cm high or spans water over 30cm deep.

Small bridges are available off the shelf from some garden centers and hardware stores. If you are looking for something unique, you may choose to engage the services of a professional designer, landscaper or carpenter. Remember, a bridge will have people walking on it and must be constructed for strength and safety in mind.

Add charm to your garden with a bridge. Make it unique and enticing and enhance the garden experience for yourself and your visitors