Dry stone walling has been used to join the end of a new concrete retaining wall, to an existing garden hedge, this section is over 6’ (1.8m) high. (Mawgan Porth) The turf is nothing to do with us!!

Whilst dry stone almost always has the best appearance, in some situations it is not suitable, this could be because of access problems, height of the wall or personal choice, alternatives include Treated timber (similar in size and weight to ex-railway sleepers, but without the tar and toxins), these can offer an attractive option, other alternatives include, Brick, Rubble stone (with mortar), blockwork (usually rendered and painted), shuttered and poured concrete  or simply an exposed earth bank, each has its place.

Because of access problems, it was not possible to use stone on this site, instead very heavy duty pressure treated Timbers 8' X 10" X 5" (2.4 X 240mm X 125mm) was used, this enabled level terraces to be created and turned an unusable very steep garden into an attractive feature, a large deck was constructed to enable the clients an area to relax and enjoy their new garden.

Before and after, hopefully its obvious which are which? A small pool at the top of the bank leads over a waterfall into a stream (visable top right of bottom picture), the stream winds around and drops through a number of small falls until it arrives in the 'bog pool', it flows under a small bridge into the main 7m X 5m horseshoe shaped pool.

This shows the above, from a different angle, the use of natural stone to create the banks can clearly been seen, the crevices between the stones are perfect for a range of amphibians and insect life to take up residence, the clients are very keen gardeners but were also concerned that the local wildlife would benefit from the water and damp conditions.

Before and after... this pool incorporates a waterfall, the garden has changed considerable below it now incorporates two new patios and several cornish hedges as well as a the obvious wall and fencing, the grass has been reseeded, but serves to show that you cannot create an omelette with breaking some eggs!! (The aluminium bridge is for miniture steam engines)