In this first part of the "landscaper's views" section, the new columnist for NewsJardinTV, Joëlle Roubache, is accompanied by our editor-in-chief, Patrick Mioulane. Together they give you good ideas and advice on an essential element of the garden, namely the paths. Evolving in the magnificent property of the Château de Vendeuvre (Calvados), our two experts begin by discussing the rectilinear paths that are widespread in large historic residences, such as the property where they are located. The straight path is primarily intended for access to the house because it creates a certain majesty at the entrance. Even if it may seem monotonous, the straight path is important to highlight a perspective or an important element: house, statue, point in the landscape, etc. It is also the most functional layout. The proportions between length and width do not imply a precise rule. On the other hand, the dimensions must be in a balanced relationship with the height of a human. The path must be punctuated with living structural elements (trees) or built elements (statues, pergola) but whose dimensions must not give a feeling of crushing or suffocation. Today, even in prestigious areas, we are looking for more privacy and naturalness. This is what led our two gardeners to move from the sumptuous straight path to a paved path that winds through the undergrowth. The latter creates a cover that generates a more captivating and charming feeling that can also be created with pergolas. The important thing in a garden is to create open spaces and areas that close in to give a cocoon feeling. Winding paths give the feeling of being able to move around more naturally. Joëlle also insists on the differences in level, very important to have a ground that rises and falls as is commonly found in nature. Flat land is well suited to small areas, especially in urban areas. In a large property, a large flat area gives the impression of a sports field (especially when it is grassed) and it is then necessary to sculpt volumes. This can be done by earthworks or by playing with the plant masses. The winding path aims to divert the eye, which artificially but effectively creates an idea of ​​volume that artificially but effectively erases the impression of flatness. For Joëlle, a path is a scar in the landscape. It must be erased with plays of light and shadow, or by making it slightly lower than the plantations so that their coating, generally lighter, does not jump out at you. But never forget what the use of the path will be. Its dimensions and its coating must remain functional. Our two experts continue their reflections by walking on a large grassed path which offers the advantage of constituting a permeable and inexpensive coating. The passage on lawn is less interventionist in the garden. It respects the natural microfauna. The interest is the harmony and contrast that we obtain between the textures. On one side the smooth aspect of the lawn which is highlighted by the fantasy of the plantations in the beds that run on either side. While commenting on the different areas of the garden that she visits, Joëlle shares her impressions with comments that are both explanatory and creative, our landscaper also taking a critical look at the places and proposing very interesting improvement solutions. It is a very intense report that gives you an excellent basis for successfully creating and distributing traffic lanes in a garden. It is illustrated with many examples seen in remarkable gardens which will certainly give you valuable ideas for development, while making you have a very pleasant time. Thank you all for following the publications of NewsJardinTV and if you need help in designing or restructuring your garden, contact Joëlle on: www.roubacheatelier.com