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Gabion baskets are one of the most practical and visually striking ways to transform your garden. Originally used in civil engineering for retaining walls and erosion control, these wire mesh cages filled with stone have found a place in modern landscaping for their versatility, strength, and natural look.
Why Choose Gabion Baskets?
Gabion baskets offer a unique blend of function and style. Unlike traditional brick or timber structures, gabions allow water to drain naturally, reducing pressure build-up and improving stability. They're also long-lasting, low-maintenance, and blend seamlessly with outdoor settings.
For the best results, gabion baskets should be installed on a stable sub-base. A compacted layer of MOT Type 1 sub-base is ideal to prevent movement over time. When building, it's recommended to hand-place quality gabion stone on the visible face of the basket for a clean, flat appearance. The rest of the basket can then be filled with loose stone to provide structure and bulk.
Creative Ways to Use Gabions in Your Garden
1. Retaining Walls
If you have sloped ground or want to create level terraces, gabion retaining walls offer a solid, stylish solution. They support soil while adding a rugged, natural look to your space.
2. Raised Beds
Gabion baskets make excellent frames for raised planting beds. The stone structure provides insulation, helping to regulate topsoil temperature and retain moisture, while the look adds a modern touch to your garden layout.
3. Garden Seating
You can build benches or outdoor seats using gabion baskets as the base. Top them with timber or stone slabs for a comfortable and durable finish. This setup blends functionality with industrial charm.
4. Fire Pit Surrounds
Use gabions to encircle a fire pit area for a safe, heat-resistant boundary. The stones won’t degrade with exposure to heat, and the design helps define a cosy outdoor spot for socialising.
5. Decorative Features and Privacy Walls
Gabions aren’t just for structure. Fill them with decorative gabion stones to create garden dividers, sculptures, or eye-catching privacy walls that double as conversation pieces.
6. Water Features
Gabions can form the base or backdrop for water features. Their open structure is perfect for housing pumps and piping, and the stone complements flowing water beautifully.
Whether you're looking for structural solutions or design elements, gabion baskets are a smart, sustainable choice. At Mainland Aggregates, we supply high-quality quarried aggregates such as gabion stone, perfect for any project. With the right base and a bit of creativity, you can use gabions to redefine your outdoor space in ways that are both practical and visually stunning.