DESIGN. Hardscaping and Materials Plan.

Permeable Tar Tan Pathways

Poured into moulds

Tinted with orange colour to create a playful interest

Self-Binding Gravel

Stones sourced locally to Lombardy region

Self-binding to allow shallow layer to be used and make site accessible to wheelchairs

Used for secondary paths to planting beds and between rows of trees.

Stone paved path

Stones sourced locally to Lombardy region

Cut to 500mm-1000mm dimensions

Used for tertiary pathways to larger trees or between main pathways

Semi-permeable concrete linear paving

Used for mini bus parking area to allow some greenery but make the ground appropriate for vehicular use year round

Wooden bench seating

Used along wider areas of paths

Simple wooden slat and metal ribbon construction

Some areas with raised backs to be comfortable for older people or pregnant women to sit at

Light green metal bins

200l capacity 6 no. total, for use of general rubbish produced by visitors during events or talks

Blue perforated fencing for climbing plants

Used along East and West facade to fill in gaps in current fencing to ensure complete security of the site. Perforated metal is used to allow the planting of climbing vine plants along the fence

Blue metal trellis arches for vine plants

Used along the pathways adjacent to planting of larger climbing plants to allow them to grow up and along

Composting Zone

With three layer walls to allow decomposed material to move along the composting line

Insect Hotel Walls

Features along the site to promote biodiversity and used as an educational tool for teaching children about different insects, wildlife and pollinators.

Ground level vegetable patch (fenced)

Planting rows separated by areas of wood chippings to create pathway for walking on and also to prevent snails and slugs reaching crops

Raised wooden planting beds

Accessible wooden beds for elderly or disabled users

The central path is constructed from colourful permeable rubber Tartan screed, which can be poured within a shallow mould. The flooring creates colour and interest and is still water permeable to allow natural irrigation. It creates a distinct route for visitors and children to follow as they weave through the food forest. Other pathways are chosen in more subtle natural colours to allow the main path to be a feature. Self binding gravel and flagstones are used in local stone and the car park uses an impermeable surface to prevent oil leakages contaminating the soil. Furniture and features are chosen to add interest and create spaces for rest, learning and gathering.