Recycled and repurposed

Recycled and repurposed landscape materials give new life to existing resources– reducing waste, conserving energy, and saving money. From construction remnants to salvaged hand-me-downs, these materials bring in unique textures, patinas, and stories that can’t be replicated, while reducing negative impacts. Check architectural salvage yards, construction sites (with permission), and community exchange platforms to find useful materials. Decorative features and planters are great opportunities for repurposing, but the possibilities go far beyond those– old railroad ties can provide fire pit seating, a dead tree can be removed and turned into mulch, untreated pallets can be used to set up a composting system, and corrugated metal sheet remnants can be used as roofing on a garden shed. Incorporating these repurposed and recycled materials showcases sustainability while creating a unique, personal outdoor space that tells a story of resourcefulness and creativity.

Here are easy ways to incorporate recycled and repurposed materials in your landscape:

Structural elements

• Salvaged timber – reclaimed beams, posts, railroad ties and even stumps can be used for pergolas, patios, seating, borders, and more
• Brick and pavers – useful for laying permeable patios and paths, as edging, or retaining walls
• Urbanite and breeze – broken slabs of concrete from demolition projects (urbanite) can be used for retaining walls, paths, and seating while breeze (byproduct of crushed, repurposed stone, concrete, and brick) is a great permeable surface material for paths and social areas

Containers and planters

• Wine barrels – naturally weather-resistant vessels with excellent drainage make great planter boxes
• Untreated pallets – can be used to build a composting system, or deconstructed and used for raised garden beds
• Corrugated metal – reclaimed containers or scrap sheet remnants can both be used to construct garden beds or water features
• Old windows – can be repurposed into lids for cold frames or for greenhouses

Decorative features

• Vintage metal work – old gates, bike wheels, and farm equipment make fantastic trellises 
• Repurposed ceramics – broken plates, tiles, and pottery can be used to make mosaic surfaces for garden tables or inlaid stepping stones
• Reclaimed glass – bottles, jars, blocks and more can be colorful garden borders, light covers, or embedded into concrete pavers and pathways