Crazy Pave & Rock Walls

The Natural Beauty of Australian Gardens

2/21/20254 min read

Australia’s outdoor spaces are a perfect blend of raw natural beauty and functional design, and few elements capture this aesthetic quite like crazy paving and rock walls. These timeless landscaping techniques add texture, depth, and an organic feel to gardens of all styles, from coastal retreats to bushland escapes.

Whether you’re designing a rustic pathway, a retaining wall, or a feature garden bed, these materials bring a sense of authenticity and permanence to outdoor spaces.

What is Crazy Paving?

Crazy paving (also known as flagstone paving) is a technique where irregularly shaped stones are pieced together like a natural jigsaw puzzle. The result is a surface that feels organic, rustic, and effortlessly stylish.

Why it Works in Australian Gardens
  • Perfect for coastal, bushland, and contemporary homes.

  • Allows for natural drainage, making it great for pool areas and outdoor showers.

  • Adds character and charm, making spaces feel less structured and more organic.

  • Works beautifully with native plants, natural stone, and timber elements.

Best Stone Types for Crazy Paving
  • Bluestone – Ideal for modern, sleek designs.

  • Sandstone – A warm, classic choice for Australian gardens.

  • Limestone – A soft, neutral stone perfect for coastal homes.

  • Granite – Durable and textural for high-traffic areas.

  • Travertine – Ideal for Mediterranean-inspired gardens.

Where to Use It:
  • Garden paths & walkways

  • Pool surrounds & patios

  • Outdoor fire pit zones

  • Courtyards & entryways

Arkkia Crazy Pave by Artisan Exterior

Crazy Pave by Artisan Exterior

Rock Walls- A Staple of Australian Landscaping

Rock walls are a defining feature in many Australian landscapes, adding structure, function, and beauty. Whether used for retaining, seating, or pure aesthetics, stone walls blend seamlessly with native surroundings.

Types of Rock Walls
  • Dry-stone walls – Built without mortar, allowing plants to grow between gaps.

  • Mortared stone walls – Sturdy and structured, ideal for retaining walls.

  • Boulder walls – Large, natural stones stacked to create a rugged look.

  • Gabion walls – Wire cages filled with rock, perfect for a contemporary edge.

Why Rock Walls Work in Australian Gardens
  • Natural insulation – Keeps gardens cool in summer and warm in winter.

  • Low maintenance – Once built, they require little upkeep.

  • Works with slopes – A perfect solution for retaining steep landscapes.

  • Enhances native gardens – Complements eucalyptus, banksia, and grasses.

Where to Use Rock Walls
  • Retaining walls for sloped gardens

  • Feature walls for visual impact

  • Raised garden beds

  • Seating walls around fire pits or courtyards

Freeform Rock by Eco Outdoor

Blending Crazy Paving & Rock Walls for a Cohesive Look

For a truly stunning outdoor space, combine crazy paving with rock walls. The mix of textures, tones, and materials creates a landscape that feels natural yet well-designed.

How to Style Them Together:
  • Use the same type of stone for both paving and walls to create harmony.

  • Soften stonework with climbing plants, native grasses, and ground covers.

  • Add contrast with timber, corten steel, or weathered brick accents.

  • Integrate lighting within rock walls to highlight textures at night.

Inspiration for Australian Garden Styles

Coastal Gardens:

  • Use limestone or sandstone crazy paving.

  • Pair with driftwood, hardy succulents, and soft grasses.

  • Incorporate low, natural stone walls for seating and retaining dunes.

Bushland Retreats:

  • Opt for rough-hewn bluestone or granite paving.

  • Integrate boulder retaining walls to blend into the surroundings.

  • Surround with eucalyptus, native grasses, and wildflowers.

Modern Minimalist Gardens:

  • Use large-format crazy paving with clean grout lines.

  • Pair with sleek, structured rock walls (gabions or mortared stone).

  • Keep plantings low-maintenance and architectural (think agaves and yuccas).

Home using mix of stone by Amber Interiors

Temples Approach to Crazy Pave and Rock Walls
Timeless & Versatile

Crazy paving and rock walls aren’t just beautiful design choices—they’re also practical, sustainable, and long-lasting. Whether you’re looking to create a winding garden path, a secluded retreat, or a bold retaining wall, these elements add a timeless, organic feel to any Australian garden.

For expert advice on sourcing materials and designing your outdoor space, Temple Outdoor can guide you through the process. Let’s create a garden that feels truly connected to nature.

Let’s create something timeless together—reach out today ! Contact us here