Granite and Gravel Driveway, Planting and Lighting, L19
Scope: Garden Design and Landscaping including Planting Design and Planting and Lighting
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The existing driveway was uneven and dangerous due to the oak tree’s roots lifting and cracking the old concrete.
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The space is large, however a stepped area restricted the space. By setting it on one level, we enabled more parking (upto 5 vehicles) and made entry and egress easier by providing a turning area
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The client wanted to improve the aesthetics as well as improving functionality. Crisp detailing and timeless materials (granite setts and cotsworld stone) and inclusion of planting beds to soften makes the entrance much more in keeping with the property
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A planting design using a refined palatte of evergreens, shrubs, ornamental grasses and perennials combines with existing planting and hedges to provide year round interest with low effort.
Objectives
Challenges
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The oak tree that was the source of the uneven and cracked concrete was protected and couldn’t be removed. It’s roots extend as far as it’s branches and were close to the surface, preventing deep excavation. Our solution was removal of the existing drive and installment of a cellular confinement system, specifically designed to provide the structural strength required for a drive, whilst protecting tree roots.
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Careful, precise excavation of the existing driveway was required to minimise risk of damage to oak tree’s roots. We took our time and used appropriate tools.
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The garden is South West facing so should get a lot of sun, however the oak (that tree again!) provides significant shade when in leaf. Planting was chosen to cope with partial - deep shade conditions.
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Gravel is an ideal surface for a large driveway as it’s fully permeable, low cost and easily maintained. But it has to be done right. We used gravel grids to ensure the gravel doesn’t move underfoot and a large driveway apron to prevent it spilling onto the pavement.