Brindle 45° Herringbone Pattern with Double Charcoal Border & Split-Level Design
📍 Location
Wigan, Greater Manchester
🏗 Project Overview
This project involved the full transformation of a tired, uneven front driveway into a modern, high-strength block paved surface. The customer wanted a smart, contemporary finish with strong visual definition while maintaining clear separation between the different ground levels around the property and planted areas.
The finished design features a brindle block paving surface laid in a 45° herringbone pattern, framed by a double charcoal border perimeter and carefully stepped edging to create two distinct levels. The result is a clean, durable driveway that dramatically enhances kerb appeal while offering long-term structural stability.
📸 Before & After Transformation
The transformation from worn paving slabs and uneven ground to a sleek, structured block paved driveway is dramatic. The new layout maximises space, improves drainage, and provides a clean, contemporary look that complements the home beautifully.
1️⃣ Site Preparation & Excavation
The existing surface was fully removed, including old paving slabs and unstable ground material. Excavation was carried out to the correct depth to allow for a strong sub-base, screed layer, and block thickness. Particular care was taken around the shrubs and entrance steps to preserve surrounding landscaping while reshaping the layout.
All waste materials were removed from site to leave a clean working area ready for construction.
2️⃣ Hardcore Sub-Base Installation
A high-quality Type 1 MOT hardcore sub-base was installed and compacted in layers using a vibrating plate compactor. This provides the essential structural strength required to prevent future movement, sinking, or cracking.
Levels were carefully set to ensure correct falls for surface water drainage away from the property, while also accommodating the split-level layout of the driveway.
3️⃣ Edging & Raised Borders Formation
Charcoal block edging was installed to define the driveway perimeter and create the raised planting borders. These kerbs were bedded securely into concrete to lock the paving in place and maintain long-term edge stability.
This step is critical not only for strength but also for creating the crisp visual contrast that frames the finished driveway.
4️⃣ Sharp Sand Screed Layer
A precise sharp sand screed was laid and laser-levelled to create a perfectly smooth bedding layer for the paving blocks. This ensures consistent block alignment, accurate levels, and a flawless final finish.
Special attention was given around the curved planting areas and entrance transitions to maintain smooth flow and symmetry.
5️⃣ Block Paving Installation
The main driveway was laid using brindle block paving in a 45° herringbone pattern. This pattern is not only visually striking but also offers excellent load distribution, making it ideal for vehicle traffic.
A double charcoal border was installed around the full perimeter, adding strong definition and tying in beautifully with the property’s brickwork and surrounding features.
The split-level layout was carefully integrated to ensure clean transitions between levels while maintaining accessibility and drainage flow.
6️⃣ Jointing, Compaction & Final Finish
Once all blocks were laid, kiln-dried sand was brushed into the joints and compacted to fully lock the paving together. The driveway was thoroughly cleaned down, leaving a crisp, professional finish ready for immediate use.
⭐ Standout Features of This Project
✔️ Brindle block paving laid in a strong 45° herringbone pattern
✔️ Double charcoal border creating bold contrast and definition
✔️ Split-level driveway design for visual interest and functionality
✔️ Raised charcoal edging around planting areas
✔️ Precision screeding for flawless surface levels
✔️ Durable Type 1 sub-base for long-term performance
✔️ Improved kerb appeal and property value
📞 Thinking About a New Driveway in Wigan or Greater Manchester?
If you’re considering upgrading your driveway with block paving, decorative borders, or a bespoke design, Stonemade Drives Ltd delivers high-quality workmanship with attention to detail from start to finish.
Contact our team today for a free quotation and site survey.