Small architectural forms: historical background. Small architectural forms on a personal plot Metal small architectural form for a garden

Small architectural forms made of concrete in the modern building concept are designed to create a harmonious environment, to bring something new to the architectural appearance of buildings, streets, parks, squares.

Small architectural forms in modern construction are needed to decorate buildings and streets.

This is a piece of landscape design, which includes numerous garden figures, flowerpots, busts, flower girls, fountains, waterfalls, urns, columns, pedestals and various fences.

With the help of such products, a unique style and design of a particular object is created.

Architectural concrete, used as a building material, allows many ideas and designs of architects and designers to be embodied. Thanks to such properties as durability, frost resistance, resistance to salts, precipitation, temperature extremes, any figure made of such concrete has a long life, and the possibility of using color textures allows you to make it as original as possible.

In addition, decorative concrete has other types of its manifestation: facade slabs, paving slabs, various structures.

Production technology

For the manufacture of products, the following is used:

  1. Cement without additives.
  2. Sand.
  3. Granite crushed stone.
  4. Superplasticizer.
  5. Armature.
  6. Water.
  7. Molds (plastic, metal, plywood).
  8. Concrete mixer.
  9. Trowel.
  10. Rammer.
  11. Rake.

On the vibrating table, the created form is filled with concrete. At the end, the mold is disassembled and the product is removed.

Fountains, benches, flowerpots and other architectural masterpieces are produced by vibration casting or vibration pressing. In the first case, the process is as follows. After disassembly, it is lubricated with a special grease, and then reassembled. The concrete mix is ​​prepared from 1 part of cement, 1 part of crushed stone and 3 parts of sand. Then the mold is placed on a vibrating table and filled with concrete in small portions. At the end of the process, the mold is disassembled, the product is removed and the mold is cleaned. The product seizes, and gains strength after, within three days (depending on the temperature and humidity of the environment).

When vibrocompression, a semi-dry mixture of cement and sand is involved in the working process under the influence of vibration and pressure. Sealing is carried out using a wooden mortar. And in this case, the fill shape plays a decisive role in the final result.

The technological process of creating sculptures also begins with the construction of a reinforced base to shape the future product. After the formation of the contour, the mass is subjected to artistic cutting, in which excess is removed, texture is added. After that, the sculpture is ready for painting. Painting should be done only with special permanent paints. In this way, you can make whole compositions: gazebos, gates, figures, various structures.

Product design

With the help of concrete elements, you can make any house, street, square and park more functional and artistic.

A comfortable house and a beautiful plot, a cozy square or an unusually decorated street are the result of correct decoration using many elements, for example, fences, railings, buildings, flower beds and figures. Their skillful placement will certainly create a light atmosphere in recreation areas, in urban settings, in a private courtyard. Small architectural forms have both functional and artistic purposes.

Decorative elements in the form of geometric shapes are harmoniously combined with the surface of the paving slabs. Benches and urns fit well with urban design. Vases, flower beds, sculptures, waterfalls are ideal for parks and squares. Gazebos, arches, flower beds will complement the landscape interior on the personal plot.

Each of the products can have a different surface: pebbles, granite chips, marble chips, quartzite, diorite. Texture, shape and color are determined by the general style. Gardening art and landscape architecture have a lot of variations for decorating an object with concrete products. First of all, accents are placed on the decor of buildings, urban or garden furniture, fences and sidewalks. The most advantageous look is obtained in combination with a hedge, pool or pond, additional decor items for a given space.

Small architectural forms in most cases are directly related to landscape design. They have the form of attractive in appearance and quite practical objects that serve for the harmonious design of personal plots and other garden and park areas of a private and public nature.

Today, there are a variety of types of MAFs, which in modern conditions mean products made by craftsmen from materials of natural and artificial origin.

They can be placed separately or in groups. They serve as an unusual attention-grabbing accent in the landscape design of a specific area.

Small architectural forms in most cases are made in the form of decor with lighting elements, bosquets (fences made of cut bushes and other green spaces), bridges, fountains, flowerpots, garden sculptures, traditional fences, fences, benches and arbors, which tend to have different purposes and differ in design, shape and plan.

The most common type of MAFs in Russia are gazebos.

The highlight of landscape design is small architectural forms

They can be installed brazier, oven or grill. There is a unique type of gazebo with a sauna. They can be in the form of a polygon or a circle. There are collapsible and stationary gazebos, for the warm and cold seasons, indoor and outdoor. Often, gazebos are made according to individual orders according to design development and selection of materials agreed with customers.

You can buy a ready-made gazebo and assemble it yourself on your personal plot.

This type of small architectural forms should be comfortable, durable and successfully combined with the general design of the territory on which it is planned to install the gazebo, or with its individual elements. Also, such a LFA can act as a contrasting accent.

Today, fences and paths are often used to form landscape design, in the manufacture of which a variety of materials are used - dumps, stone and wood for paths, materials of natural and artificial origin for fences.

Such MAFs can have different purposes - decorative, limiting or connecting certain zones. On the territory of gardens and parks, as well as in some suburban areas, benches will be appropriate, which may differ in shape and be made of all kinds of materials.

With their help, you can give the design of the territory a new direction.

It is also necessary to say about the new types of MAFs, which appeared in large quantities in Russia relatively recently. Now, in many homestead plots and dachas, you can find a fountain, an alpine slide, a rose garden or a rockery.

Domestic landscape designers borrowed the fashion for such small architectural forms from Western countries, but added national flavor and originality to them.

In modern conditions, MAFs can be made of plastic, metal, brick, wood, stone of natural or artificial origin, etc.

Small architectural forms are not only functional, but to a greater extent decorative items that play one of the main roles when working on the landscape design of a garden, a private plot and a number of other similar territories.

Many domestic companies sell special molds for the manufacture of MAFs. Such elements of landscape design will transform your backyard territory.

She will look original and attractive. For example, your garden can be decorated with a playground, garden sculpture, flowerpots, fences, trellises, pergolas, bridges, gazebos, pavilions and other small architectural forms, materials for which can be plastic, stone, metal, wood, etc.

Most of the LFAs are pretty functional.

They are important in modern landscape design. Sale of decorative and artificial stone for the decoration of personal plots, summer cottages, gardens and other landscapes has long been successfully engaged in the online store "Garden and Decor", all products of which are of high quality and durability.

LLC "MAF" - the territory of bright childhood

Company LLC " Small architectural forms»Is an experienced manufacturer of metal structures for the construction of children's playgrounds, outdoor sports equipment, bicycle parking, workout equipment and other architectural forms for landscaping parks, streets, school grounds. Having been on the market since 2004, LLC "MAF" managed to gain trust not only in his native Tula region.

An example of this is the Tula courtyard in Mogilev, the sister city of Tula.
The production and installation of our play equipment takes place in a short time due to the high qualifications of the workers and the operational management by the authorities. Due to the company's network of warehouse facilities for storing finished metal structures, the production process is always in operation.

The finished equipment only needs to be delivered to the destination and installed. In addition to the developed products, LLC "MAF" is ready to make custom-made children's or sports equipment, according to the scheme or drawing provided by you, to paint the products, focusing on your requirements.
The manufacturing technology of the products of our company allows you to be firmly confident in their quality, durability, as well as in the safety of your children.

At the same time, the design and technological departments are constantly improving the production process, introducing new elements into the play equipment. The technology of production of products from fiberglass- seats for benches and carousels, trays for slides.

Small architectural forms

Game complex IK-017

The play complex has two multi-level slides with slope heights of 1000 and 1500 mm (slope lengths: 2350 and 3660 mm, respectively), a manhole, a rake, platforms. The dome, slopes of slides and fences are made of fiberglass, animals are depicted on the fences.

Small curbstone F-102

Curbstone for restricting the passage of vehicles.

Weight 36 kg.

Workout equipment V-001

Elements of equipment for workout classes.

Consists of several posts with crossbeams and horizontal bars.

Bicycle parking 8-seat MF-362

The metal structure is designed for parking 8 bicycles. It is painted with powder paint by spraying, followed by polymerization in an electric oven.

Small ladybug F-216

Game piece made of rubber crumb in the shape of a small ladybug.

Weight 15 kg.

Small architectural forms made of modern materials

Small architectural forms are almost constantly in the field of vision of a person, influencing the formation of his aesthetic taste, therefore, they must meet the high requirements of modern decoration and have a high-quality finish.

They should be unobtrusive and technically perfect, flexible and comfortable, simple and expressive, beautiful in shape, color and texture of the material, lightweight, durable and economical, with good proportions and corresponding to the scale of a person.

Typical details of awnings, gazebos, flower beds made of wood and plastic are widely used in landscaping.

These utilitarian small architectural forms also carry an aesthetic value. When placing mass-produced items, do not repeat them within sight.

DIY small architectural forms of concrete

The use of details of the same type determines the maximum use of natural components in the design - trees, shrubs, boulders, ponds, etc., which will make it possible to add variety to the style and nature of the compositions.

In recent years, specialized areas with a high level of improvement have become widespread in cities, designed to teach children the rules of traffic, swim in open or heated pools, play on children's construction sites.

Small architectural forms for children's games and exercises should be distinguished by their originality and bright colors. The use of natural materials in the decoration of play fortresses, tunnels, labyrinths stimulates interest in learning about nature.

Small architectural forms are created from a variety of finishing materials, but wood is the most widespread - the most affordable and easy-to-process material.

Cast concrete and rubber, metal and plastics, reinforced cement and fiberglass, other modern materials and their various combinations are introduced into the design. The purpose, form, constructive solution of any element should contribute to the maximum revelation of the decorative merits of this building material.

Alcove- a light architectural structure among green spaces, designed for a quiet, calm short-term rest without taking into account any particular type of activity.

Simple and expressive forms of arbors are successfully used as architectural elements of external landscaping.

Trellis- a light lattice, often free-standing vertical frame, lined with climbing or leaning plants. It is used for fencing or insulating recreation areas, gazebos, individual benches, masking utility areas, decorating blank walls, building entrances, as a vertical green background for sculptures, fountains, etc.

Lattices are created using horizontal, vertical or inclined beams, sometimes in combination with pots, planters or flower stands.

The trellis are made from a metal rod of various cross-sections, wire, wooden battens, reinforced concrete, attached in the form of lattices to the supports. By using several grilles, you can create a quiet corner, sheltered from the sun, while maintaining the air movement due to the transparency of the structure.

The size and number of links are determined by the functional purpose, architectural concept and location in the landscaped area. The color of the frame should be imperceptible, muted tones. A trellis as a decorative structure can be successfully used in any areas of the city.

At the same time, it is very important to give young shoots the right direction in a timely manner and remove dried lashes.

Bridge, or a passage, is created for communication between the banks of rivers, channels, canals, streams, ravines, to ensure passage to the islands. Depending on the purpose, they can be made of stone, wood, less often brick, metal.

The construction of the bridge must be functionally justified and consistent with the network of alleys, paths and their capacity.

The bridge can serve as a viewing platform - picturesque panoramas open from it towards water surfaces.

Garden furniture, and above all, benches, despite their relatively small size, play an important role in the improvement of green areas, in the formation of the appearance of a public garden, boulevard, park, etc.

e. Benches are the most necessary element of external landscaping and, above all, recreation areas - on playgrounds, near fountains, reservoirs, flower beds, in gazebos, in the shade of trees. They require a reasonable placement and a special attitude to the appearance that meets the modern aesthetic level.

Benches can be: buried in the ground, pedestal, stationary or portable.

For short-term rest, benches without backs are used, for longer ones - benches with backs. The backs and seats of benches are best made of the warm, most accessible and easily processed material - wood, and the supports - of metal, concrete. You can also use wood, but it, being dug into the ground, is short-lived, therefore those wooden parts that come into contact with the ground are antiseptic, covered with bitumen, and made of hard rocks.

Small architectural forms of concrete

Landscape management is an integral part of any home or certain types of commercial buildings (hotels, offices, recreation centers, restaurants). To give the territory a special atmosphere, decor is needed - small architectural forms. Our company ArtConcrete produces architectural forms of high quality concrete using European raw materials in accordance with existing environmental safety standards.

What types of LFA can be ordered for landscaping?

Small architectural forms of concrete fall into the following categories:

  • Score;
  • Columns and sculptures;
  • Arbor;
  • pergola;
  • Fence elements;
  • KASPO;
  • Urns;
  • Degree.

The presented small architectural forms in landscape design are ergonomic in all stylistic forms of space.

The production of small architectural forms is carried out using modern equipment.

Using MAFs (Small Architectural Forms) to Decorate a Garden

For the production of strong grades of concrete with the addition of fibers, which increases their mechanical strength and resistance to weathering. All manufactured LFAs comply with environmental and safety standards. The products are supplied with a corresponding certificate.

Decorative concrete items can be painted in color. The possibilities of crystal white, beige color are especially popular.

You can also buy small architectural forms of color. The texture of the material can be similar to natural stones such as marble, sandstone, granite. Specific small architectural forms do not require maintenance.

A small architectural concrete form is part of the landscape and decorative arrangements. When you install an LFA in a cottage, hotel, restaurant, holiday center or cottage, you can count on visual appeal without limiting the lifespan of the products.

Combining architectural décor with meadows, plants and water bodies can provide a unique effect in a recreation area.

Ready-made solutions from ArtConcrete

ArtConcrete is engaged in the production of small architectural forms on demand from imported raw materials. A characteristic part of the company is the provision of a full range of services, from design to the manufacture of small architectural forms to individual dimensions.

If necessary, you can purchase small architectural forms for a summer residence, house or restaurant, hotel, recreation center from a warehouse.

ArtConcrete has its own production department with a state-of-the-art equipment concept and design office. Own installer teams will deliver and install the selected LFA to a specific address in Moscow.

ArtConcrete offers individual terms of cooperation.

With the advantage, you can assign loyal payment terms, short production and installation times. Contact your managers for clarification of product details and sending your order.

Other materials

A beautiful, picturesque garden is not only a riot of greenery in which a cozy house is buried. As a rule, some plants, no matter how good they feel, are not enough to breathe life into the look of the yard, to make it really interesting, pleasing to the eye and inviting to rest.

To create bright accents in your garden, use small architectural forms created by the thought and hands of professionals.

Installation of small architectural formsfrom the company "EcoStroyProekt" is an impeccable style and quality of garden and park elements.

Small architectural forms (MAF) are not only gazebos, decorative walls and patios, but also a variety of landscape elements designed to decorate your territory: gravel paths, fences, fountains, ponds, pergolas, sculptures and much more.

In fact, anything but plants can play the role of such expressive accents in your garden.

When ordering the manufacture of such parts in "EcoStroyProekt" for the improvement of your site, you get functional elements that are capable of performing several tasks at once:

Maintaining the shape of the site.

Small architectural forms in landscape design give the garden a distinct form and structure. Such "city-forming" elements seem to assert the boundaries of the site, marked by a fence, but sometimes they get lost behind the splendor of greenery.

Help for plants... The small architectural forms used in the design create the shade necessary for a number of plant species.

Small architectural forms - the highlight of the site

They also serve as the most expressive and natural landscape support for your curly greenery.

The perfect place to stay... The construction of small architectural forms is mainly used by such elements as gazebos, awnings, summer kitchens (barbecues), as well as various reservoirs: ponds, fountains, cascades, streams with bridges across them.

All of them serve as a place for relaxing outdoor recreation in one way or another, creating your mood, giving shade on a hot day and providing you much-needed comfort.

The advantages of our work

Obviously, gazebos that can withstand the weight of snow in winter, pergolas that support lush vegetation, and most other items that are heavily stressed when used outdoors must be very reliable.

To enjoy the beauty of landscape elements for many years, order their production and installation in the company "EcoStroyProekt"!

Regardless of the cost, our facilities fully meet the requirements for operation in the vicinity of Moscow and neighboring regions. In our catalog you will find interesting, original solutions that can always be adapted to your taste and wishes for prices.

Order the construction of small architectural formsat EcoStroyProject - take care of the beauty of your garden!

Small architectural forms for summer cottages and playgrounds are the final chord of the symphony of landscape design, to be sure of this, just look at the photo. Even if you have a small personal plot with unsightly buildings, you can always use the right design solutions to turn the area into a luxurious, if not a fabulous place to relax in the bosom of nature.

Architectural structures of this kind have long been perceived as classics, because, due to their availability, they are resorted to almost everywhere: as soon as you find yourself in a park area or in a country garden, you see:


Suburban area with a gazebo and a pond
  • unusual sculptures;
  • mesmerizing fountains;
  • openwork gazebos, in which you want to hide from the outside fuss, holding your breath;
  • magnificent arches strewn with flowering plants;
  • forged bridges;
  • sophisticated rotundas;
  • decorative flowerpots;
  • colorful terraces;
  • trellises for flowering plants;
  • decorative lanterns;
  • other architectural masterpieces and compositional solutions.

Decorative composition with a waterfall

Today, all these masterpieces can be found in some parks and on the territory of private households in our country.

Against the background of the rich design of country houses, it may seem that such elements of landscape design are very expensive, but this is not so! Absolutely any owner of an infield has access to such beauty, because you don't have to install expensive fountains, majestic amphitheaters or unusual labyrinths, but use a budgetary but very original gazebo, decorating it with picturesque curly flowers, elegantly "throw" a bridge over a comfortable artificial reservoir, and finally, use an amazing arch in the exterior.

Attention! Remember, styling a site is possible even with a limited budget, because the main thing is your desire, imagination and, undoubtedly, hard work!


Garden recreation area design

If we talk about the tasks that are embedded in such solutions, then there are several of them:

  1. Decorative. It is created by picturesque fences, amazing gazebos and sculptures, the magic of fountains and the water surface of the pools.
  2. Leisure activities and sports. This task can be realized with the help of sports grounds, courts and swings, playgrounds and sandboxes.
  3. Mass use. By erecting extraordinary benches and benches, installing garden lamps and sculptural masterpieces, you can radically transform a park area or an unsightly garden plot.

We improve the garden area

The choice of one or another architectural element depends on the scale and style of the territory, the initial design, the time that you can freely spend on the arrangement, financial capabilities, flight of imagination and other factors.

Gazebos


Gazebo at the summer cottage

Most often, you can contemplate light structures of a simple, less often capital type, built with a base. For their manufacture, materials can be used that are different in origin, texture and quality: natural wood and stone, brick and metal. The gazebo looks spectacular from a combination of seemingly incompatible materials at first glance, especially surrounded by picturesque flower beds. The shape of the gazebo, according to the ideas of the architects, can vary from classical to round and even hexagonal.

Designed in a single stylistic direction with the territory of the garden, the colorful gazebo, in addition to its decorative function, can become an island of salvation from the sun and heat, bustle and city noise. This is a great place for privacy and just enjoying the natural colors.

Rotundas and gazebos

These architectural forms can hardly be found in a simple suburban area, where we grow flowers and grow berries. Rotundas, like gazebos, carry a certain style and functionality, which is more inherent in project and imposing spaces. The covered buildings, decorated with stucco and stately columns, are considered an excellent place for tea drinking and quiet pleasant conversations.


Rotunda

Belvederes

These solutions come from Europe, where they were placed mainly on a hill. Belvederes are equipped with amazing supporting columns and a landscaped viewing platform. They are constructed from natural stone, wood, concrete and metal, and their style can be classical, Greek, modern and so on.


Gazebo

Classical architectural solutions are perfectly located in open space, on hills, not far from a reservoir and even on the border area of ​​a summer cottage. Today, you can often find transformed belvederes of incredible beauty, where architectural elements from different styles prevail at the same time.

Pergolas

Very popular buildings, made of plastic, timber beams and other building materials, with powerful pillars and a walk-through roof. Pergolas are more of a decorative element of the exterior than a practical function. With their help, you can focus on the bright elements of the garden and emphasize the special beauty of a particular style. A beautiful, massive and rich-looking pergola will become for the owner of a personal plot not only a pleasant addition, but also a favorite place for warm meetings with friends, joint tea drinking in the warm season.


Pergola

Arches

This type of architectural structure refers to supports. Arches are most often created for "living walls" and for growing climbing vegetation. Arched structures made of wood, brick and natural stone are often found in gardens, park areas and arboretums. Braided with luxurious greenery, majestic arches dilute the landscape design of the territory, regardless of its area and dimensions of the architectural building.


Arch entwined with flowers

Bridges

Log and paved, wooden and forged, curved and even, equipped with elegant railings and without them, hovering above the water, and vice versa, heavier - all this is said about the bridges that "throw" over landscaped reservoirs, streams and ponds. An amazing addition to any square, park or garden, artificial forest, giving the territory an element of naturalness and magic. Each of us, if we have not yet admired the water surface, while on the decorative bridge, then certainly dreamed about it.


Bridge over an artificial reservoir

Attention! Often, bridges are complemented by forged benches, park lamps, which in the evening very effectively reflect the picturesque beauty of the area and highlight the small architectural forms inscribed in it.

Garden sculptures

These elements symbolize majesty and tact and indicate the good taste of their owner. Classical and modern sculptural works are most often found in museum and historical squares and parks. Carved from natural stone or crafted from concrete, they come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes - monumental columns, enormous lions, and gentle angels. If a professional is engaged in the arrangement and selection of sculptures, then you can be sure that he will be able to achieve incredible success in the improvement of the recreation area.


Garden sculpture

You will not find such majestic sculptures on personal plots. Popular are stylized plaster figurines of gnomes and fairytale heroes, miniature copies of historical buildings and castles with decorative lighting. Such solutions look amazingly beautiful against the background of a bright lawn, under the shade of well-groomed trees or dense vegetation.

Original ideas for small architectural forms for a summer residence: video

Small architectural forms for the garden: photo

Small architectural forms: types and their application in practice - the topic of this review from the editorial staff of HouseChief. In this article, we will find out how an ordinary plot outside the city differs from and answer the questions of how to turn a garden into a real park area with many secluded and stunningly beautiful places.

Read in the article

What are small architectural forms, their types and applications

Let's start with the definition: small architectural forms, or as they are often called MAF, are decorative structures that not only decorate the garden, but also perform many useful functions. These include garden sculptures, fountains, ponds, and more. All this organically fits into the general concept of the garden, being accent points, depending on the planning solution.


To navigate the variety of shapes and models, you can divide them into different types.

What are the criteria for classifying MAF

First of all, the LFA is divided according to the nature of the task performed. And here the division goes into purely decorative structures that do not carry any practical function and utilitarian objects, the tasks of which are to enclose, indicate, hold, and the like.

In addition to such a division, the principle of appointment can also be used: it can be universal, that is, applicable for every day, decorative or leisure.

Products that carry a practical function, in turn, are divided into three subspecies:

  • to delimit space: stairs, arches, bridges, and retaining walls;
  • for the recreation area: furniture, sports facilities;
  • for convenience and service: lighting fixtures, bins, drinking fountains.

And completing the question of classification, it should be noted that MAFs are divided into those that use vegetation and do not use it.


Decorative small architectural forms

These structures are needed only for decoration, but even the most practical gardeners will not be indifferent to them.

Garden sculptures

Traditionally, it is believed that such structures do not fulfill practical tasks, but from which side to look? Sometimes a pretty figure covers an unsightly place or serves as the basis for a lantern. Typically, sculptures are placed in places that are the first to catch the eye. Garden gnomes confidently hold the palm in sales, in second place -. But in principle, you can find mushrooms, houses, abstract compositions and much more.

Ponds for decoration

Utility designs for decorating

And now about the structures that are of practical use. They can be made in such a way that they will also become a remarkable decor:

Bridges and stairs on the site

If you have a real stream or an artificial reservoir, then a bridge is a logical choice and sometimes even a necessity. If there is no reservoir, but the desire is there, you can equip a dry stream and still put a bridge. Such a structure can be made of stone, wood or forged metal. Any of these options will look very beneficial.

Ladders and steps are another utilitarian object that can become a masterpiece. They can be made from brick, stone or wood. When moving from one landscape level to another, you should check that the staircase is in harmony with.

Fences and walls for decoration

Swimming pool on site

There is no dispute about the functional benefits of swimming on the site. Even the simplest design, it will bring a lot of pleasure to all household members, if only there is enough patience to maintain the purity of the water. But we must admit that inflatable and collapsible pools do not decorate the site, but real tanks, dug into the ground and decorated in an advisory way, is a completely different story. Unusual shape, high-quality materials - all this will do

To be the owner of a summer cottage is the cherished dream of almost every city dweller! Of course, this is good when the backyard area implies the presence not only of a land plot for planting vegetable crops, but also presupposes the presence of a cozy house. And although many modern amateur gardeners allocate some part of the garden space for the vegetable garden, because they love the land and work on it, nevertheless, the owners always try to arrange the main part of the entire territory near the house in such a way that it brings aesthetic satisfaction.

In view of this, small architectural forms in landscape design are especially popular today. A fairly well-known abbreviation - MAF - is one of the main elements of landscape decoration, the main purpose of which is to gracefully decorate the backyard space. By the way, MAFs can rightfully be attributed not only to aesthetic elements, but also to multifunctional components of the entire garden design. Decorating a personal garden space with the help of these architectural forms can be afforded not only by wealthy segments of the population. Using the imagination and flight of thought, almost every gardener will be able to transform his territory with the above elements, especially since there is plenty to choose from.

History and facts

According to historical data, it is the Renaissance that is considered the beginning of the birth of small architectural forms. The same period of time, in Europe, most of the Italian gardeners, sculptors, architects worked on the reproduction of park and garden areas.

In the Eastern countries of the world, in Japan, a very important role was given to stone as the main element of a garden plot, which was convincingly argued by the Japanese philosophers of that time. So, in their opinion, one can know the truth only through the contemplation of the surrounding world. Stone sculptures, as well as just stone, were enveloped in a sacred and symbolic meaning. Even a small garden plot required the presence of stone MAFs. In contrast to the ancient Japanese side, in the territory of Russia, special attention was paid to wooden products. On this side, the tree was exalted and masterfully worked on it. Animals and birds from famous fairy tales, mighty heroes and other wooden heroes of folk fables were frequent guests in Russian territories.


Carved bridge - MAFs in Russia

And therefore, decorating the site with the help of small architectural forms, at that time it was possible to easily set the desired stylistic direction. In the modern period of time, MAFs play the same meaning.

Role purpose of the IAF

Small architectural forms have long been popular among European residents. This component of landscape decoration is often represented by an important part of the garden plots of wealthy and well-known people. However, you should not think that only a high-ranking person can afford to transform the area around the house with the above components of landscape decor. Even a simple amateur summer resident can successfully diversify his garden area by taking advantage of such inventions. Of course, personal preferences, financial capabilities, a typical construction project, and material will serve as the fundamental factors. It is worth considering the fact that along with expensive forms such as statues or fountains, amphitheaters or labyrinths, there are cheaper ones.

For example, by building a small canopy of climbing plants or a gazebo near your house, or a small bridge across an artificial reservoir, you can easily achieve several goals - to get aesthetic pleasure, or, for example, to hide from the scorching summer sun.

Classification of architectural forms

So, as you can see, one of the main tasks of small forms is to successfully complement and transform existing buildings located in the garden area. At the same time, it is important to take into account absolutely all the points: convenience, unusual design, shape and material. After all, they should fit well enough into the overall picture of the surrounding landscape. In view of this, designers working in this direction figuratively divide all known architectural forms into specific groups.

Accordingly to their functional purpose:

MAFs for determining the territorial boundary

On any site, when designing the intended design, attention is always paid to the territory that must be separated (recreation area and labor activity area) or, for example, aesthetically veiled (farm buildings, work equipment, etc.). In such cases, they often resort to help, for example, decorative fences of various types; bridges or arches; stairs, fountains; small retaining walls are no exception; and also, flowerpots, topiary, statues are often installed. Any of the above elements will be able to successfully delimit the desired zones in the garden area, while perfectly preserving and emphasizing its style direction and originality. Especially often recently, the desired results are achieved thanks to topiary - unusual garden figures created from trees and shrubs.


The hedge has both an aesthetic and a practical function.

MAFs for recreation areas

Not a single personal plot is complete without such a zone, and therefore its transformation plays an important role. Alternatively, they are used for a garden or a summer residence; constructing playgrounds for sports or children's games; gazebos, benches, swings, barbecues and other decorative elements are installed.

MAFs for convenience

The installation of these MAFs is primarily aimed at making rest or pastime in a particular place of the garden plot pleasant, comfortable and convenient. For this, lanterns or various reflective devices are used; drinking water fountains to remove thirst; rubbish bins.


Cozy quiet corner in the garden

Classification of MAFs depending on the use of plants

To begin with, it is worth noting that all MAFs during design can be conditionally divided into those that include plants in their design, and those that are created without beautiful representatives of the flora. Examples of the latter category have been described a little above, but the representatives of the first group should be paid close attention to. So, if we divide them into several types, then the following can be distinguished:

Trellis

It is a metal or wood structure, the main purpose of which is to support weaving vegetation. Quite often, the garden trellis acts as a small light trellis. This invention is one of the most widely available and widely used. This is not an exaggeration, because this relatively miniature design is striking in its versatility. During the period when climbing plants entwine this garden invention, it is very reminiscent of a dense cover that can protect from the scorching sun's rays. In this case, you can, as they say, "kill two birds with one stone": and hide in the shade, and have a nice rest, enjoying the aromas of the flower cover. And if you combine several trellis lattices, you get a very beautiful green gazebo. Considering the moment that in the summer season the trellis will be shrouded in vegetation, you can not concentrate too much on the trellis drawing. By the way, when erecting this device, any gardener can successfully hide yard buildings that are in an unsightly state.


Trellis in the garden

Pergolas

Among the small architectural forms, this is another representative of the supporting structure. Most often, the main purpose of this invention is considered to be the delimitation of the garden area, however, during the period when the pergolas are densely entwined with plants, they are in no way inferior in their beauty to the aforementioned architectural form.

Generally speaking, the pergola is a small canopy, consisting of a lattice, shrouded in climbing plants. This support is an excellent alternative to the roof.

The main elements are arched structures connected by special bridges. If you properly organize the arrangement of the pergola and think over the selection of vegetation, then in the end you can get an unpretentious but rather attractive green corridor or a cozy gazebo. For any owner of a personal plot, this is a great alternative when there is a desire to spend their time alone with nature.


Pergola in the recreation area

Arches

It can also be attributed to one of the most popular types of small architectural forms. It has a semicircular shape and most often acts as a single garden element, with which you can give a certain area of ​​the estate some peculiarity. Again, as in previous cases, climbing plants will not be superfluous, but will come in handy. If they are planted at the base of the arch, they will successfully wind around it as they grow. As a result, the owner of the site will get an excellent shade shelter on a hot sunny day.

How to choose an arch for a garden (video)

Bosquets

They represent all the same familiar "green rooms", only the bases of the so-called walls are neatly trimmed shrubs or trees. This type of architectural form owes its popularity and prevalence to French gardeners of the 17th century. It was on the lands of this country that the decoration of garden and park areas was carried out with the obligatory presence of bosquets.


Bosquet - green room

Basic materials for the manufacture of MAFs and the corresponding classification

There are several basic materials from which, as usual, small architectural forms are made.

  • Tree... Of course, in terms of its environmental friendliness and naturalness, this material is dominant. If it is assumed in advance that there is a playground for children or a playground in the garden area, then the tree will be in priority. Most landscape designers are inclined to believe that this is the safest option, because it has special requirements from the environmental side. Moreover, MAFs made of wood fit perfectly into the overall picture, providing an atmosphere of naturalness and naturalness. In addition to playgrounds or small playgrounds in the garden area, you can also find wooden gazebos, bridges, benches, and more.
  • Concrete construction and natural stone.
  • Metal... It is a good option for creating various architectural forms. Thanks to the special qualities of this material, you can successfully create various forms that can decorate any garden area and satisfy even the most unusual searches of the site owners. Such types of MAFs as gazebos, stands for flowers, lanterns, braziers, barbecues and others are most often metal, and therefore are practical and durable.

Unusual MAFs (video)

Small architectural forms in landscape design

Gazebos

A roofed structure with a solid foundation. Often they are made of iron, wood or even brick, and sometimes they can combine several materials at once. They are made in various shapes, heights, sizes. If we consider the main purpose - this is, of course, a place for relaxation and pleasant pastime in the arms of nature. However, it is worth paying attention to the aesthetic side, which in this respect is in no way inferior to the practical, because a beautiful gazebo is an integral part of any well-groomed area.


Unusual gazebo in the garden

Gazebo and rotunda

A fairly rare type of indoor LFAs, because the design of these forms requires compliance with certain design standards, which not every territory, and not every owner can afford.

Belvederes or observation decks, as they were most often called in the past. Outwardly, they very much resemble a rounded gazebo, along the perimeter of which support columns are installed. They can be created from various raw materials and require a special approach during installation, in order for this classic type structure to successfully fit into the modern principles of landscape design.


Rotunda on the lake

Decorative lanterns

One of the essential attributes of almost any personal plot is decorative lanterns, which can find their perfect location anywhere in the garden. They can act as a single garden object, and can be successfully combined with stones or trees, or be a great addition to the entrance to the garden, or decorate an artificial reservoir on the site. The principles of modern design divide lanterns into several main categories:

  • lanterns with a stand, which can be a pedestal or a holder for a lamp;
  • lanterns without a stand, successfully positioned directly on the ground or paving slabs;
  • lanterns, the base of which is a kind of foot, consisting of several legs.

Lanterns as a decorative element of landscape design

When installing this small architectural form on your site, it is very important to think in advance and calculate the dimensions of the lanterns and the area of ​​the surrounding space in order to successfully fit them into the overall design.

Garden furniture

Of course, it is impossible to imagine a comfortable outdoor recreation without furniture in the garden. However, if we consider the concept of furniture from the position of a small architectural form, then in this case it is worth paying attention to solid garden furniture, but not to light weightless furniture that does not have a permanent location.

More specifically, the brightest example of such furniture is a garden bench.

You can place it anywhere, everything will depend on where other elements of garden decor are located: for example, near a water source or opposite a bright fragrant flower bed; near the house or in the area of ​​a shady pergola.

Sculptures

These architectural forms for the garden require a professional approach. The design of this or that statue on the site must be strictly consistent with the general design concept, only then it will be harmonious and very useful.

Garden sculpture

Conclusion

In conclusion, I would like to say that small architectural forms are striking in their diversity. Not always what I liked very much will successfully fit into the general background of the entire site. That is why the owner's wise and prudent approach is so important, which will help him find exactly what is so necessary to give the entire territory originality and uniqueness!

A country house is not only a place where you have to work hard on growing vegetables, fruits and flowers. The area around the building is often the pride of the owner. Making out a personal plot, there is an opportunity to show creativity and wonders of independent design creation.

The main direction of landscape transformation is small architectural forms (LFA). This is a multifaceted execution of small decorative buildings and elements that adorn the adjoining territory and the recreation area on the suburban area.

A variety of design solutions in the design of a personal plot may surprise the uninitiated person. Any small architectural forms create the integrity of the composition, transform the general concept of perception and direction. They include:

  • composite arched structures from scrap materials;
  • decorative pergolas of various shapes;
  • complex compositions from garden plantings - bosquets;
  • bridges connecting different areas;
  • constructive solutions for embossed design - stairs;
  • fountains of various shapes and purposes;
  • retaining walls and supporting structures;
  • gazebos and awnings of the original design;
  • figurines for architectural and decorative purposes;
  • garden benches.


Each element has its own design functionality. In the general concept, architectural forms are divided into 3 main groups according to their purpose:

  1. Universal forms are a multifunctional design solution that allows you to create various design concepts. These include flowerpots, benches, decorative urns, and similar items;
  2. Decorative elements are small compositional solutions that allow you to create a specific decoration of the territory. They serve to create a certain style, a special atmosphere of perception. These include statues, fountains, bridges, gazebos;
  3. Leisure facilities. Their name speaks for itself. Children's sandboxes, swings, horizontal bars, slides - that is, everything that is intended for active recreation of children and adults.

The variety of architectural forms produced an indescribable impression at all times. At the sight of a well-groomed lawn, admiring spectators have a feeling of an extraordinary richness of imagination, painstaking work of gardeners and designers. Today, many are trying to equip their suburban areas in this way.


Small forms at their summer cottage

The owners of a suburban area often cannot figure out how to make it cozy, and resort to the services of designers. On large areas, the delimitation of space is widely used, the visual selection of certain zones, and for this there are several types of architectural forms:

  • demarcating walls, pergolas and baskets, allowing you to hide outbuildings, inventory;
  • gazebos, sports facilities, barbecue areas that equip various secluded nooks of rest;
  • forms for comfort and coziness - lanterns, trash cans, various devices for supplying water to different ends of the territory.

They can easily and easily fit in a large space, but what about small personal plots in the country? Here you want to have a vegetable garden, fruit plantations and at the same time relax in comfort. The easiest way out is to build small architectural forms with your own hands.


If you make a canopy attached to the house, plant climbing plantings such as vines, grapes, clematis around the perimeter, then it will serve as a shelter from rain and sun, performing the function of a gazebo. A cozy seating area is easily placed under the canopy. Here you can easily install a barbecue, garden furniture.

Further decoration of the site is carried out by using green fences, pergolas, which can easily be attached to the smallest piece of land. They will close the farm buildings, create a shady alley. Paths and flower beds with decorative figurines and lanterns, being a multifunctional design solution, will complete the topic of delimitation and arrangement.

For the formation of small decorative landscape elements, any available material is used: stone, wood, gypsum, clay, plants. By creating a complex concept in a specific style, plant-free solutions can be applied. Not everyone manages to grow beautiful vines, so openwork wooden or plastic structures are made.


A small suburban area can have a different shape and relief. Installation of small architectural forms for summer cottages will complement the concept of your own design. It is quite possible, instead of a couple of boards thrown across the stream, to install a neat bridge made of logs, metal structures, stone with a pipe lining. The appearance of the household land speaks of the tastes and preferences of the owners. An unkempt lawn will not beautify the owner.

The use of architectural elements in the landscape

Any area adjacent to the building requires special care. Particular attention is paid to park, resort areas, as well as crowded places. In summer, you don't want to sit indoors: walking in the fresh air, relaxing by the fountain or in the gazebo is much more to everyone's liking.

Parks are the favorite places for recreation. To create special comfort, designers use the formation of shady alleys, comfortable benches, and various types of gazebos. Architectural forms are selected in a specific style. For their manufacture, materials of various composition and origin are used.

They try to place the gazebos next to a small pond, in a circle of trees or next to a flower bed. Their forms can be different depending on the general concept of the landscape. The most popular are lightweight wooden structures of various configurations. Stone structures have remained in many of the old gardens and parks from ancient times. Renovated, they give the overall landscape a special grandeur and beauty. These include rotundas and gazebos, which are covered stone buildings with columns and decorated with stucco.

Much attention is paid to children in landscape design. They are bored in empty alleys. Especially for them, original multifunctional forms are installed. Depending on the general concept, these can be:

  • log cabins with ladders and slides;
  • metal structures of various configurations;
  • stone fortresses;
  • simple sports grounds.


Everything that will decorate your site depends on the imagination and flight of design ideas. Not the least factor in this is the aesthetic design of flowerpots, statues and other architectural forms. Modern original compositions decorate not only park areas: they can be found in flower beds in settlements, along the road on lawns, sanatoriums.

Making garden design elements yourself

Landscaping development requires certain skills. But where to study, if not in your suburban area?

The first step in decorating a site is planning. It is necessary to distribute planting plots and recreation areas. Then, work is done that requires the development of the soil, mainly - this is the preparation of foundations for future buildings and paths. This stage is necessary because the planned development of the site does not entail the subsequent alteration of existing structures.

An important task in the development of the landscape is water supply, it is thought over and laid at the first stage. It is possible to make the installation at the end of all work, laying pipes or hoses over the ground, but this may violate the general concept of the site.


Substrate preparation involves partial excavation. It is important to remember that it is better to set the surface soil layer aside. First, make a general layout, and then evenly distribute the removed black soil. Otherwise, the loam may be at the top, which is extremely unfavorable for plants.

In small areas, you should not equip monumental structures. It is enough to make a canopy or a terrace for relaxation, plant vines or grapes around it. In the same way, you can make a check-in for a car. The dense foliage of the plants will create a pleasant shade and protect from rain.

Another option for arranging a recreation area is a pergola. They are made from any material at hand: metal, timber, plastic. The pergola is a lattice structure for decorative flowers and grapes. It takes up little space, and with its help you can build a shady alley by installing posts or arcs and pulling strong wire over them. The main installation condition is the filling of the support pillars.

The most time consuming and costly are gazebos and fountains. If a fountain requires a well-designed bowl and water circulation, then a gazebo requires a solid, reliable foundation. Information on how to build these structures is contained on special sites and blocks on the Internet, as well as in books and magazines.


Foundations for small architectural forms are prepared according to their configuration. At the end of buildings such as a canopy, pergola, fountain, the laying or filling of paths begins. They can be laid out with paving slabs, covered with rubble or, as the simplest option, concreted. Along the edges of the paths, you can install stone curbs or plant perennial flowers and plants. This will help protect the coating from getting dirt, earth to the surface.

The last stage in landscape design is leveling the soil, forming flower beds and alpine hills, planting trees and vines. At this stage, the territory is being divided into a garden zone and a resting place. Plastic structures, lighting, sculptures, benches and other attributes are installed last.

Examples of budget landscape design

During the design of a suburban area, you must adhere to a certain style. As an example, you can consider the budget design of a small suburban area:

Example 1. To obtain an original look of decorative elements at the lowest cost, wood is used as a building material. It is enough to go to the forest or forest plantation to find the fallen trees.


Thick lower limbs are used to build a canopy. Having cut off the thin growth, they leave a strong branched base. It makes good stands for a pergola or canopy. From above, in the interval between the racks, thinner branches are thrown and tied. Thus, the roof and walls of the hut are formed. Vines and wild grapes, planted around it, will entwine the resulting shape, inside which there will be a cozy shady corner.

From the remaining log, you can make hemp legs for benches. Sawing the trunk into thin slices and processing them appropriately makes excellent walkway tiles. Thick knots are used for the legs of the table, various shapes can be cut out of them.

Decorated in such an unusual way, the site will resemble a piece of wild forest. Wooden figures of animals and fairy-tale characters located in different places will add impressions to both children and adults.


Example 2. Usually, when clearing the territory of a summer cottage, bushes, trees are uprooted, stones are removed. Most of the garbage is incinerated or dumped. It rarely occurs to anyone to use this material for landscape design.

A wonderful wattle fence is made from the branches of the bush, which can be collected in any corner to delimit different zones. Many architectural forms are made of wood. Even an uprooted root with neatly trimmed branches can serve as an original table or chair.

Collected stones are usually used to form paths or alpine slides, it all depends on the shape, size and quantity. Natural stone fits perfectly into any design style. It is a multifaceted and multifunctional object used in various compositions.

As you can see from the examples, using your own imagination and using your hands, you can create and successfully combine small architectural forms in landscape design from any object or plant, creating a unique and inimitable style inherent only to your site. The main thing is that the general concept of the site is preserved and the combination of materials is correctly applied.