A paved garden staircase winds upwards, between plants on either side. Horizontal image.

Safer and more attractive than a steep descent or ground slope, this site that was becoming an eyesore can become a star attraction, especially when flanked by attractive plantings.BedsideLawnmowers and weed slugs can wreak havoc on foliage in their mowing path. Solve the problem with a brick border.

Lay them on the ground end to end, or dig a trough and lay them sideways in the ground for added stability.

In addition, edging helps prevent soil and compost from leaking out of a bed. Interlocking bricks work well here.

Retaining wallIf you have a sloping garden, level it with a retaining wall built from stacked bricks.

A loose mud block retaining wall without mortar, with herbs and potted plants growing inside, with several terracotta pots and a pair of secateurs on top.

Line the wall with landscape fabric and backfill with enough soil to level the garden. Goodbye erosion!WayIf the path to your door is a well-worn track through the lawn, it’s time to take the curb up a notch with a thoughtful brick path.

Horizontal shot of a wet brick path in the garden, between two areas planted with hostas and other greenery.And between raised beds, installing a walkway means no more weeding or shoes dampened by morning dew.

5. Insect hotelCored bricks, the kind with holes in them, are an excellent material for making structures to attract beneficial insects to your garden.

6. Mailbox SurroundA little creativity and a little brick and mortar can go a long way.

7. FloorThe garden is a lovely place to sit and relax, especially with a firm floor to prevent the lawn chair legs from sinking into the ground.

A metal bench on an asphalt surface set on the lawn, with green bushes growing in the background.Arrange bricks in the pattern of your choice to form a small cushion under a chair, or create an entire outdoor space complete with garden benches and other lawn-friendly furniture.Place your arrangement in the shade for cool bricks under your bare feet in the summer, or in the sun for an extra degree or two of warmth on a chilly day.

8. PedestalA pedestal has several uses in the garden, especially when it is sturdy and weatherproof.A bird bath stands on a stand in the middle of a sunny rose garden, during the golden hour.