What are Stepping Stones and which one should you choose?

Stepping stones or stepstones are collections of stones arranged to create a makeshift pathway, they initially enabled pedestrians to cross watercourses like creeks or small rivers, or water features in gardens where water flowed between the stones.

While their historical origins are uncertain, stepping stones, along with log bridges, were likely among the earliest methods humans developed for crossing inland bodies of water as they used natural elements around them for this purpose.

Nowadays, stepping stones are available in various shapes and sizes, enhancing both the functionality and design of gardens. But which garden stepper is suitable for your garden?

Round stepping stones, when arranged in various sizes, produce a natural, flowing appearance. Using a single size gives a more modern look. They soften gardens, which is advantageous if your design includes straight lines and angles, and they can also enhance meandering curves in an informal layout.

Rectangle Stepping Stones create quite a contemporary look or can also be informal when they are laid off set ( as per this image). The Great thing about rectangles is that they can be laid in smaller areas or lay two when a wider path is required.

Irregular shaped Stepping stones are perfect for themes gardens such as Balinese, Chinese or Cottage gardens. They create a romantic meandering impression and add a feeling of a professional landscape design with natural curved elements that can also work in harmony with adjacent straight lines or organic shapes as in the illustration here.