VERY ZEN

If you’re looking for more than just a small, do-nothing, flat patch of lawn in your backyard, then create a zen rock garden with a difference. Zen gardens are intended to reflect the essence or spirit of nature, not copy it. The rocks represent objects such as mountains, trees or animals. Gravel or sand stand for movement – a sea, lake or river – and water means purification and cleansing. And toss away any notion zen gardens don’t have plants. Many do, so put your creative spirits into gear. Then, after you’ve given away your lawnmower, relax on the two-tier deck, surrounded by scenery that exudes calmness and serenity.

EASY STEPS TO BUILD A FLAGSTONE PATH

Rather than just taking you from A-Z, zen garden paths offer a voyage of discovery – without disturbing your mini world.

Here’s how

STEP 1 Excavate the area for your path, allowing for a 40mm mortar bed plus the thickness of