TL;DR: In Episode 140 of The Front Garden, Adam Hompas chats with Tomas Runciman from Straightcurve about why garden edging is one of the most overlooked but important elements in landscape construction. 

 From modular systems and faster installs to material choices and emerging design trends, this episode is a practical look at how the right details can lift the entire project.

In this episode…

Adam Hompas sits down with Tomas Runciman from Straightcurve to explore why garden edging is far more than a finishing touch. 

From defining levels and holding materials in place to shaping spaces and supporting long-term design integrity, Tomas makes the case for edging as one of the quiet achievers of the landscape.

Tomas shares his own journey into the industry, from childhood garden drawings and time spent growing food with family, through to studying landscape architecture, horticulture and botany. That blend of design thinking and practical knowledge comes through clearly in this conversation, particularly when discussing how thoughtful systems can improve both the build process and the final result.

The chat dives into the evolution of steel edging and raised garden bed systems, including the benefits of modular construction, flexible and rigid profiles, hidden fixings, and products designed to save time on site without compromising finish. Tomas also explains the growing appeal of weathering steel, the role of galvanised steel in coastal and contemporary projects, and how material choices are shaping the next phase of Australian landscape design.

 There’s plenty here for landscapers, designers and contractors alike, from installation considerations and durability to how feedback from the industry helps drive product development. Tomas also shares a sneak peek at what’s next for Straightcurve, including a forthcoming powder-coated range.

 Key takeaways

• Garden edging plays a structural role in landscape design, helping define spaces, hold materials, manage levels and maintain design integrity over time.
• Modular systems can dramatically reduce installation time, especially when they eliminate the need for welding, visible fixings and unnecessary on-site fiddling.
• Material choice matters, with weathering steel offering a natural patinaed look and galvanised steel providing longevity, especially in coastal environments.
• Good product design supports better builds, making life easier not only for experienced landscapers but also for teams and DIY users working on site.
• The industry continues to improve through feedback, with contractor input playing a direct role in the evolution of systems and installation methods.
• Straightcurve is preparing to launch a powder-coated range, signalling where landscape detailing and product finishes may be heading next.

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👁️‍🗨️ About Tomas Runciman

• Website: straightcurve.com/au/
• Blog: Garden Blog
• Facebook: Straightcurve Garden Edge
• Instagram: @straightcurvegardenedge
• LinkedIn: Straightcurve pty ltd and Tomas Runciman

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Specifically designed for DIY Gardeners and Landscapers around the world. Designed with simple installation in mind, including; pre-drilled & prepared for assembly, no training or experience necessary. Straightcurve is surprisingly affordable compared to the alternatives, find your closest dealer here.

The Front Garden podcast is proudly presented by Landscaping Victoria, and is brought to you by Straightcurve, providers of premium steel edging solutions.

Visit Straightcurve to learn more at https://straightcurve.com/au/