Landscape & Urban Design Issue 56 2022 | Page 9

DECKING
and warps far less than natural timber , while still providing a totally authentic wood look . Maintenancewise , all it requires is an occasional brush and wash with soapy water to keep it looking good , rather than the regular sanding and oiling that timber requires .
The amazing likeness to real wood is achieved through the boards being created in a range of different moulds taken from carefully selected timbers and then hand coloured .
The elements
Just as important , though , are practical aspects such as safety in all weather conditions , especially if the path is likely to get heavy use . Millboard is highly slip resistant and is often used in public spaces with heavy footfall because of this .
When Kew Gardens needed a low-maintenance , high contact surface for the extensive walkways in its children ’ s garden , they chose Millboard ’ s Weathered Oak Embered and Enhanced Grain Burnt Cedar because of its durability and slip resistant properties , as well as its natural aesthetic .
In this bold design at Bord Bia Bloom , Millboard ’ s Smoked Oak Enhanced Grain decking is used for twin boardwalks which take centre stage over a wide pond .
twin dead-straight boardwalks in the pale tones of Millboard ’ s Smoked Oak Enhanced Grain to take the visitor over a wide pond . The clean lines used helped to create a sense of drama .
Kew Gardens chose Millboard ’ s Weathered Oak Embered its durability and anti-slip properties , as well as its natural aesthetic .
Even though the shapes of the paths in each case are very different , the over-arching feeling achieved by both gardens is calmness and tranquillity .
Materials matter
Whether it ’ s the crunch of gravel , solidity of paving stones or the springy firmness of a decking board underfoot , it ’ s important that the materials used fit with the style of house and garden . Composite decking such as Millboard ’ s is becoming increasingly popular because it is rot-resistant and fades
Follow us @ ludmagazine www . landud . co . uk 9