Masonry Magazine June 2001 Page. 14
who think landscaping is important.
If the owner doesn't think landscaping is a significant aspect of their property, grass and a few trees may fit their style. However, if landscaping is important to the property owners, they may invest in a more grand exterior consisting of a weaving path constructed with multi-colored concrete pavers that leads to a swimming pool surrounded by a 10-foot-tall serpentine retaining wall. The choices are virtually endless - with a little bit of thought and talent, most ideas can be constructed into three-dimensional, real-life masonry forms.
The environment should always be considered when creating any landscape. Some landscapes are wild and draw attention away from their surrounding environment, while other scapes mimic nature. Landscape themes vary regionally, but as compared to rock or stone retaining walls, masonry block have stronger architectural ties to nearby buildings. SRW units display a natural split face to complement any natural or architectural environment. Because they
are integrally colored, units may be split or modified without loss of color. Hardscapes may easily integrate color schemes and patterns to personalize SRWs.
"You can develop patterns within a wall," said Landscape Architect Bob Dahm, the general manager of Villa Landscapes. "You can be as creative as you want to be with different colored bands, geometric shapes, patterns, or forms to create the look you want. With color you have no limitations - you can use subtle colors that blend into the natural environment and right now the trendiest look is
VERSA-LOK
Mosaic™
Retaining Wall System
The VERSA-LOK Mosaic" Retaining Wall System is the ultimate combination of aesthetics and performance in segmental retaining walls.
Amazingly easy to install, VERSA-LOK Mosaic has the appearance of natural stone and old-world charm.
blended colors because they are soft-looking and appealing."
Researchers at the Federal Highway Administration's Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center in McLean, Virginia designed two bridge abutments to serve as a bridge testing facility. The bridge was built with SRW units and decorative patterns were incorporated into the wall design to demonstrate that SRWs can be attractive and used to set the theme for parks, residential, commercial or agency settings.
Along Hwy. 179 in Jefferson City, the Missouri Department of Transportation spiced up a 10-foot-tall retaining wall by adding an outline of the state in buff colored block to contrast against the limestone colored wall. Color bands create character to any retaining wall and a sense of unity between the landscape and the surrounding environment.
Because they have vast design abilities, SRW units can create various aesthetic enhancements that provide charm to any residential, commercial, or municipal community. In addition to retaining walls, masonry units are used to define planting areas, mow (Continued on page 16)
14 MASONRY JUNE, 2001
VERSA-LOK®
Retaining Wall Systems
Call for the distributor in your area
1-800-770-4525
www.versa-lok.com