Stone, rock and gravel are increasingly important features in modern garden design. The author examines the different types of stone and rock available, and their impact upon a range of naturalistic garden landscapes, drawing on the influence of Chinese and Japanese gardens to show how rocks may be used to complement water features, containers and a variety of plants. Practical ideas for building and planting a rock garden, laying paving or gravel pathways, using scree, dry river beds and stepping stones are described, enabling the gardener to create an individual and contemporary look to suit their own space.