Garden fences: 4 classics + 1 unique, modern model

Putting up border/fence around, for example, our garden is common practice. And borders come in all shapes, sizes and material types. A border clearly indicates and demarcates the extent of our property, but they also provide a garden furnishing opportunity.

Borders and fences are the background to our gardens, and outline everything that is on the inside. There are usually 4 common, classical border/fence types used, but there are other types around which are much more original and unique.

The wooden fence

Wood is one of the most used fencing materials: it costs less than other options (below), but it is still long-lasting. And it allows you to create slatted panels with a modern design, as well as fences with a more traditional, rustic feel.

If it is well crafted and installed properly, a wooden structure can last a very long time and serve all your needs. However, there is a constant need to do maintenance: repairs and the periodic application of sealing and waterproofing products to resist the elements.

You can use refined, specially prepared wood or opt for "raw" branches and trunks - it all depends on yours needs, the style of the garden, your tastes and the surrounding environment.

Brick walls

A timeless classic: brick walls are a very popular choice for a building a fence. Of course, they are more expensive and challenging to erect, but they will last virtually forever.

The choices are endless too: types, colors and sizes of the bricks, as well as the design of the border (which can be traditional or modern), will allow you to customize your wall in a thousand ways.

The height of the wall, and the way in which it is finished, will give it its character. Sometimes, for example, walls are topped off with flat slabs or even sloping tiles.

But usually, unless you have to border off a very large property, you don't want to have walls that are too high (as these create too much shadow and "close off" the space. More popular are smaller walls, with columns interspersed with iron grates, to let in light and feel less claustrophobic.

Natural stones for a fence

An always very fascinating option is using natural stone to build walls. These types of walls blend in well in less urban landscapes and can be easily decorated with plants.

The type of stone you choose, as well as the way it is cut, can be customised to suit any type of need and/or environment.

When doing your research, you might be surprised to find that there are still stone masons active in your local area that can supply you with the materials you need.

Wrought iron fences

Suitable for urban and rural areas, wrought iron fences are a timeless classic. They can be very simple and relatively cheap, but they can also be an opportunity to splash out on some truly luxurious furnishings.

Using metal, you can make fences with a very modern and contemporary style. And they do a great job of demarcating your property without shielding from sight completely.

A modern alternative: gabions

A unique combination of metal and stone: these large, super-resistant "cages" (gabions) hold a multitude of stones vertically. Of course, the type of stones chosen will determine the overall look. Truly a combination of nature and modernity waiting to be discovered.

Which option do you prefer for your garden fence?