Reclaimed Materials in Garden Design

Using reclaimed and recycled materials makes for beautiful, distinctive and eco-friendly garden schemes. Reclaimed timber, bricks, tiles, and stones add character and a sense of history. Recycled stones and bricks can be used to border beds or pathways; broken dishes and mosaic tiles splash color in unexpected ways. Crushed seashells and abalone shells are another great way to give the garden color, promote drainage, or serve as mulch. Reclaimed lumber is just as sturdy as virgin wood and can be used for decks and other structures, helping reduce your home’s carbon footprint.

We occasionally take finds from the Rebuilding Center and repurpose them as garden trellises. Another take on this concept may be right in your garden. Many yards contain existing materials – stone, pavers, etc. – that can be readily integrated into a rehabilitation project and new landscape. City Steward takes pleasure in drawing on resources already on site and helping our clients reuse these materials in our projects. The photo to the left shows a path created with blocks and flagstones that were hidden behind an old garage at this NE Portland home (only the gravel had to be purchased).