Updated April 30, 2024
Gabions are one of the most popular design elements of every architect. They are not only visually appealing, but also functional and have a natural effect. Although they have lost some of their good reputation in recent years, they are still one of the most sought-after materials for a sturdy garden fence.
The gabion fence: functionality and design in one
In this article we will look at the popular gabion fence and we have some ideas for garden design with gabions for you. The stone fence actually serves as sound, wind and visual protection, especially near motorways or other busy roads. But these are no longer the only areas of application. The fence, filled with stones or other effectively arranged materials, is becoming increasingly popular and chosen as an attractive alternative to the fence or wall. Best of all, you can customize your own fence and even create pretty patterns.
Choose different colored, large or small stones and combine them with each other as you like. The fact that such fences have to be filled with stones is by no means a requirement. There is alsopretty variants for privacy protectionmade of wood or other materials, which we will look at in more detail below.
Gabion fence designs and materials
The wide variety of designs and materials for filling the gabions leaves almost nothing to be desired. We will now go into detail about the different variants using some pictures that can serve as inspiration for you.
Classic version with stone for privacy and decoration
Here you see a fence that is classically filled with stones. In this way, the otherwise transparent fence becomes a perfect privacy screen, the length of which can vary as desired. The light stones ensure that the dark metal stands out wonderfully, which would not be the case without filling.
The size of the stones can also be freely selected. Here you can see an example where large stones were used and arranged like a puzzle. The stones have a subtle shade of gray, red and yellow, which means that the modern rust gate is highlighted in its strong reddish-brown color.
Lower palisades or even paving stones can also be used. The great thing about them is that they not only come in different sizes, but also in different colors. This way, with a little imagination, you can create pretty patterns by combining different colors. This was also done in this example. Gray, yellowish and red stones can be seen.
The classic versions with stones can also be spiced up and provide a perfect background for works of art. And what would suit modern fence design better than Corten steel? There are a wide variety of motifs made from this material that can be attached to the metal fence. Choose a type of filling that is bright enough so that the motifs can be shown to their best advantage.
As you can see, you can play with both the height and width of the fence and adapt it to your wishes and needs. If you just want to separate certain areas and don't value privacy, simply use the usual height for garden fences.
The steel structures can be installed in a colored frame so as not to attract too much attention. The color white was retained in the design of this garden and the round stones in the gabions only add a great accent.
Design options with glass in gabion fences
Privacy fences and walls filled with glass are certainly a real eye-catcher. The color can again be chosen arbitrarily. It's up to you whether you want to design a single-colored fence or a colorful one. Make sure that the fence is wide enough to accommodate enough glass to be impermeable.
Fill gabions with wooden elements
The grids can even be filled with wood. Wood comes into its own particularly well when you combine it with stone or another material. In the example above, elegant white stone was used for this purpose. The color difference between the two materials makes them stand out from each other perfectly. Of course, you can also choose glass or a shell filling.
However, that doesn't mean that wood looks less attractive without other materials. Use wooden discs of different diameters and of sufficient length to accommodate the grid and at the same time fill it well. With a little patience and imagination, you can even create interesting motifs or patterns using the different diameters.
Maybe you also have some logs available and would prefer to use them instead of the wooden discs. That's no problem at all! Don't forget that the design is entirely determined by your taste. However, some materials such as stone last a lot longer than wood, for example.
Special design ideas: the gabion fence as a retaining wall and seating
Various ideas can also be used as a retaining wall for properties on slopes. Not only do they attractively separate and support a higher level, but they also decorate the outdoor area at the same time.
You can also integrate seating into the fence, like here. If the supporting wall is lower, a seat made of wooden boards can simply be mounted on the fence.
Of course, they also look very nice without benches. Not only high beds can be supported in this way. Use any ideas you like for raised patios or pool areas, frame flower beds and seating areas, or come up with something creative yourself.
Wood and stone harmonize well with each other
A great alternative to the classic garden bench
Combine the gabion fence with plants
However, the bare stones look much nicer when surrounded by vegetation. Use low gabion fences as a kind of bed enclosure. The beautiful contrast between the plants and the stones creates interesting accents and ensures an original and playful garden design.Planting makes the otherwise bare wall insect-friendlyand creates more biodiversity in the garden. A hedge can also grow between the wire baskets.
Arrange the plant box on the gabions
Plant the top layer with flowers and plants
Lush planting behind the gabion fence
Creating works of art through combinations of materials
Maybe you find high stone walls too massive and boring. The design can then easily be combined with a wooden privacy screen. To do this, simply alternate boards and gabions with stone, which are also used as a foundation. The look becomes varied and modern.
This privacy fence is a similar variant. However, the wooden elements here are on a higher level. This can be an equally interesting structure and does not necessarily have to be straight. This wall, for example, imitates columns between which the wooden panels are attached.
Create patterns using different colors
Let your creativity run wild and design your garden fence according to your own preferences. Using stones in different colors and sizes, you can even create patterns in the fences that look creative and unique.
The gabion as a design element in the garden
Stone can also serve as a purely decorative design element in the garden. The filled stone structures are really robust and will withstand extreme weather. You can play with the colors and size of the stones to achieve the desired effect.
Integrate water features into the gabions
If you are also planning some water features when landscaping, you can combine them with a gabion fence. This looks modern and extremely original and is definitely not seen in every second garden. Consult a landscape architect who can provide you with more information and ideas for this original garden design.
