Replacing gravel next to house with flowers

[Hil&Lew]

We have a Georgian house which has a narrow gravel border between the driveway and external wall, approx 15cm between the wall and the driveway. We’d like to replace the gravel (and soil beneath) with more soil and flowers to climb the wall but we’re concerned about increasing the moisture in the soil against the exposed bricks. The existing soil which is under/mixed with the gravel is already slightly damp but we would be increasing the moisture but watering the flowers. See pictures. Any advise would be greatly appreciated.

 

[eon]

I would be inclined not to as it could easily introduce damp issues to your walls. If you want to introduce greenery to the area, personally I would opt for a nice selection of pots instead, that way at least you can be sure not to cause problems.

 

[Stevers]

It's a little narrow for a flower bed, but depending on the aspect, you could look into the sort of plants that can thrive in dry conditions and can spread onto the pavers to soften them. We have 9" wide beds at the front of the house that are French Drains filled with large stone with chippings on top. In our case Valerian has found a home there, and gives a good display without ever being watered.