Tips & Tricks: Choosing the Right Retaining Wall for your project

Interior design extraordinaire, James Treble draws upon his wealth of knowledge and experience to provide you with all the important information on retaining walls. Before tackling any project of this kind, it is important to consider your choice of material, the desired structure, size and colour. 

Where style meets superior functionality, retaining walls serve multiple purposes. James shares, “Retaining walls are an easy and elegant way to create visual interest in your garden. As well as providing an aesthetic appeal, a retaining wall can act as a spatial divider and a means of preventing soil erosion.” 

1. Consider the material and type of wall

There is an extensive range of materials available for constructing retaining walls. This includes traditional concrete interlocking walls and concrete sleepers, which are both available from Austral Masonry and provide a variety of design options. James adds, “Interlocking retaining walls and concrete sleepers is the perfect choice for DIY projects, as they are easier to lay.” 

If concrete blocks are your material of choice, James recommends getting a skilled tradesman involved in your project. While they are a great way to save space, concrete sleepers may also require professional installation depending on the height of the wall. 

2. Know your height limitations

Building codes and height restrictions may influence your material selection and the development & planning process for the retaining wall. It is recommended to consult a professional for retaining walls over 600mm or for more complex designs. 

For an elegant and refined design, James notes, “Don’t forget the height of your vegetation – it should be coordinated with the height of your retaining wall and design.” 

3. Consider your material colour and finish

For a cohesive look throughout your outdoor environment, it is best to select a material colour that complements your paving and other external finishes throughout the space. Alternatively, a contrasting element can provide a striking design element to enrich the exterior environment. There is a range of colour options available on the market to suit any style; from smooth white blocks to textured sandy colours or deep charcoal shades.  

James adds, “Contrast is okay if done properly, but you may also choose to use a retaining wall finish that matches your home’s exterior walls.” 

5. Plan for water drainage

To ensure efficient water drainage, gravel and fabric must be added to cover the base of the retaining wall. It is also important to consider your climate when choosing the appropriate vegetation – for instance, tropical climates require plants that thrive in humid and wet weather. 

“A well-designed retaining wall will work well with nature as well as it does with your home,” James expresses.