Summer living

‘Boxing’ has been the word du jour in the essence office of late. It’s not that the gloves are off! The warm, bright days have galvanized the essence girls into action. With the help of Rangiora Landscape & Garden Supplies, the challenge was on! How to transform a once untidy barbecue area for a summer of entertaining within a budget of $400?

Things to consider

1. Select an area to pave and the look you wish to achieve.
Browse magazines and landscaping books for ideas.

2. Think about equipment and materials.
Larger light coloured pavers can make a small area look larger.

3. Check the size of the area.
Before you get underway, measure it – this will help your supplier to work out how much you need in terms of basic materials.

4. Draw up a basic plan
Discuss this with the staff at Rangiora Landscape supplies.

The essence project

Step 1
To makeover the barbecue area, we first defined the area with boxing. Then the boxing was stained with a charcoal stain. (Boxing and stain are available from McAlpines).

Step 2
Within the boxing, we added a layer of AP20 (shingle). This allows any water to seep through and prevent any pooling. Ideally, this needs to be compacted.

Step 3
Next, we added a layer of crusher dust and spent time making sure it was level…well actually, brother-in-law Phil did. At this point it is helpful to have someone who knows what they are doing!

Step 4
Concrete pavers were then placed within the boxed area.

Step 5
White Amuri stone chips were spread between the pavers to complete the project.

Step 5
Time to celebrate with a barbecue!

How much did this project cost?

Outdoor tiles$156

AP 20 $30

Sand$20

Amuri stone chips$54

Boxing & pegs$34

Charcoal stain$30

Total$324

Wrap up

We were impressed with the service at Rangiora Landscape & Garden Supplies. They not only helped with expert advice on what materials were needed and in what quantity, but also delivered to the door. It made the process so easy.

All your landscaping supplies are on site, from bark, sawdust, stone, sand and shingle to pavers, punga, sleepers and more.

Trendy makeover – economy budget

This project delivers exceptional value for money, with the final cost being well within the budgeted amount of $400. Why not give your garden a boost too? Just take your ideas to Mike and the team at Rangiora Landscape & Garden Supplies and let them guide you through your own backyard project this summer.