This was a significant space, over 30 meters from the house to the lane, which had become quite overgrown.
Many mature trees were present, needing care, both in terms of drive remodelling and installation of a significant double oak-framed garage.
In levelling the ground for landscaping works, retaining walls were required; these walls were of a local stock brick and finished with a header course.
The drive opening was widened and pillars installed, using a matching brick. The drive shape was redefined, both creating more space and better function, while also reducing steep ramps.
The overall hard surfaces were finished using two different materials: a tumble-mixed, sized concrete block and Breedon self-binding gravel. Breedon was featured through a flat section across the oak-framed garage with blocks across the drive threshold and as a large body of parking adjacent to the house; concrete blocks were used as an edging detail.
Combined, these materials provided an interesting balance of textures and colour tones while adding good function.
The front of the house sits in full shade, so planting had to be sympathetic to this factor; other areas mirrored the surrounding woodland feel of rhododendrons and mottled shaded planting.
Subtle lighting provided function, lighting the drive entrance with cowelled corten fittings and the drive edge with corten bollards. Spike lights bring the borders to light after dark.
The drive descends to the house, so significant drainage was installed, utilising existing storm drains along with an additional soakaway.
As we always say, “Gardens must look amazing, but also work well.”
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