Following on from our last blog, "Ways to Upscale Your Driveway - part one", our second blog gives you even more ideas on how to redo your driveway to bring together your home exterior and provide a cohesive and stunning look.

Gravel

Gravel is a low-maintenance, relatively inexpensive option that can even be turned into a DIY project. Gravel does still need to be raked from time to time in order to prevent it from dispersing, and placing a membrane underneath will help deter weeds appearing. The most popular type of gravel is pea shingle but there are a number of options, including different sizes, shapes and colours. You can even have gravel combined with resin (see below) so that the gravel doesn't move - but this would need professional installation.

Landscaping

Want to add some more greenery or structure? Landscaping is a great way to add some nature to your driveway and offers many options. Flower beds with perennial or annual flowers will give you a chance to have variation every once in a while by changing the flowers every year or two. Trees and plants with height can be used to frame driveways and are wonderful for long driveways or private access roads. Grass also adds variability - grass strips or patches can be mixed with cement blocks, pavers, or brick designs but require a bit of maintenance every now and then.

Circular/Architectural Change

Driveways don’t have to be straight or just a slab. Change the architecture little with a curved or a circular driveway that surrounds a planter, fountain, or just simple grass. Round driveways or turning circles also prevent you from having to reverse out of the driveway every day.

Gateways

Be a little extravagant and add wrought iron gates to your entrance or really splash out with electric gates that open at the push of a button, or with a secure code. Gates may require some maintenance but are also a great way to add privacy and security in a stylish way.

Resin Bound

Resin bound driveways use high-tech resin to bind together small stones to form a firm attractive surface. This option is environmentally friendly and reduces flood risk because there are small gaps in the stones that allow water to drain into the ground. The final look gives the appearance of gravel while offering the durability, convenience, and easy maintenance of block paving.

Whatever your property dreams are, Arc Design Services is here to help. Get expert designs and services at www.arcdesignservices.net or call 0161 928 4433.