Block Paved Driveway in Blackburn
This project in Blackburn was a complete front garden conversion, turning an overgrown and enclosed space into a stunning, open-plan driveway with a unique, custom-designed centrepiece. The goal was to create valuable off-road parking while adding significant kerb appeal and a touch of individual style.
Before
The front of the property was completely hidden behind a large, overgrown hedge. The garden itself was an unusable patch of grass, offering no parking and making the front of the house feel dark and enclosed.
Site Clearance & Excavation
The first major step was the complete removal of the large hedge that ran across the front of the property. Once removed, the entire garden area was excavated, clearing all turf and soil down to a solid base to prepare for the new driveway structure.
Sub-Base & Membrane
A heavy-duty geotextile membrane was laid down to prevent future weed growth. On top of this, a deep layer of MOT Type 1 hardcore was installed and thoroughly compacted to create a robust and durable foundation.
Edging & Design Layout
A flowing, curved border was laid using charcoal block pavers to frame the new driveway and create a soft, elegant line against the remaining lawn. The intricate diamond feature for the centre of the driveway was then carefully marked out.
Paving & Custom Feature
A screeded sand bed was prepared before the main paving began. The body of the driveway was laid using a warm brindle block paver. The standout feature is the central diamond pattern, which was meticulously created using a combination of the brindle and charcoal blocks.
Finishing
The project was completed by brushing kiln-dried sand into all the joints of the block paving and compacting the entire surface. This final step locks all the blocks tightly together, ensuring a solid and long-lasting finish.
Conclusion
The finished project has completely transformed the property’s frontage. It has gone from being a closed-off, unusable garden to a bright, open, and highly practical driveway. The custom diamond feature adds a unique touch of class and personality, while the quality of the materials and workmanship ensures it will look fantastic for years to come.
