Charcoal 45° Herringbone with Double Light Grey Decorative Border
📍 Location
Bacup, Lancashire
🏗 Project Overview
This project involved the complete transformation of a large, tired front driveway into a striking modern block paved surface. The customer wanted a bold, contemporary finish that would maximise parking space while adding visual interest and long-term durability.
The final design features charcoal block paving laid in a 45° herringbone pattern, framed by a double light grey perimeter border and finished with a decorative chevron detailing strip across the entrance. The contrast between the dark field blocks and the lighter edging creates a premium look that complements the property’s brickwork and garage frontage.
📸 Before & After Transformation
The transformation showcases a dramatic upgrade from a worn and uneven surface to a clean, contemporary driveway that adds both function and visual impact. The decorative borders and feature detailing create a premium finish while maintaining excellent strength and longevity.
1️⃣ Groundworks, Excavation & Preparation
The existing surface was fully excavated and removed to the correct depth, ensuring sufficient allowance for a strong sub-base, bedding layer, and block thickness. The area was cleared of all loose material and shaped to provide correct drainage falls away from the property and garage.
Heavy machinery was used to achieve consistent levels across the large driveway footprint.
2️⃣ Hardcore Sub-Base Installation
A reinforced Type 1 MOT hardcore foundation was installed and compacted in multiple layers using a vibrating plate compactor. This creates a solid structural base capable of supporting vehicle weight while preventing future movement or settlement.
Edges were carefully defined to maintain sharp lines and accurate levels across the full width of the driveway.
3️⃣ Edging Kerbs & Border Formation
Concrete edge restraints were installed around the full perimeter and securely haunched to lock the paving in position long-term. These edges formed the framework for the double light grey border, ensuring crisp lines and perfect symmetry throughout the layout.
This stage is essential for both strength and visual precision.
4️⃣ Sharp Sand Screed Layer
A laser-levelled sharp sand screed layer was installed to create a perfectly smooth and consistent bedding surface for the blocks. This ensures accurate alignment, clean joint lines, and an even finished surface across the large open area.
5️⃣ Block Paving Installation
The main driveway area was laid using charcoal blocks in a 45° herringbone pattern, chosen for its excellent load distribution and contemporary appearance.
A double light grey perimeter border was installed to frame the driveway and create a striking contrast against the darker paving. At the entrance, a decorative chevron-style feature strip was incorporated, adding a bespoke design element and strong kerb appeal from the road.
6️⃣ Jointing, Compaction & Final Clean
Kiln-dried sand was brushed into all joints and compacted to lock the blocks securely into place. The surface was then cleaned and inspected to ensure consistent levels, tight joints, and a flawless finish ready for immediate use.
⭐ Standout Features of This Project
✔️ Charcoal block paving laid in a 45° herringbone pattern
✔️ Double light grey decorative perimeter border
✔️ Chevron feature strip across the driveway entrance
✔️ Large open parking area maximising usable space
✔️ Heavy-duty Type 1 sub-base for long-term durability
✔️ Precision screeded finish for perfect levels
✔️ Clean modern aesthetic that enhances kerb appeal
📞 Looking for a New Driveway in Bacup or Lancashire?
If you’re considering upgrading your driveway with block paving, decorative borders, or bespoke designs, Stonemade Drives Ltd delivers outstanding workmanship from groundwork to final finish.
Contact our team today for a free quotation and site survey.