STACK ROCK GROUP – LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
THE FIRST STRUCTURAL GABION WALLS PERMITTED BY THE CITY OF BOISE.
Gabions are metal cages or boxes filled with rocks or other usually earthen materials, often used as retaining walls or other outdoor walls. The cages are most commonly made of stainless, galvanized or powder-coated steel mesh panels, wired together using spiral binders or ring fasteners in the shape of a rectangle.
Lately gabion trends range from benches filled with colored glass bottles to walls with a mix of rock, moss and twinkle lights. This once purely functional landscape feature has taken a creative turn with a variety of new uses in the garden.
BENEFITS OF GABION WALLS
Durability. A major contributor to longevity is the gabion’s high permeability. Water can pass through the voids between the rock, eliminating the buildup of hydrostatic pressure and reducing the potential for shifting or warping over time. Also, the inherent strength of materials that won’t corrode over time makes gabion walls built to last.
Sustainability. When repurposed and/or recycled concrete or rock found onsite during construction is used, the amount of waste hauled to a landfill and the associated fuel costs are greatly reduced.
Aesthetics. Gabions can contextually tie structures to their natural surroundings.
PROJECT TEAM
| Landscape Architect | Stack Rock Group (duh!) |
|---|---|
| Structural Engineer | Structural Edge Engineering |
| Landscape Contractor | Sterling Landscape |