In shopping centres perhaps but not so in private gardens, Some people who do not like gardens clearly seize the opportunity and remove any evidence of green and replace it with a wall to wall car park. Fortunately the majority of people prefer to retain some no matter how modest aspect of a garden area within the new driveway scheme.
Fortunately many are looking beyond the immediate car needs and seek more and better defined garden green spaces to achieve a more visually appealing balance. Plants, shrubs and trees are very important elements within the task, so too are lawn areas. Alas with the lack of space the lawn is usually the first item to be removed or at least dramatically reduced in size to provide much needed space for car(s).
Another major design factor which can significantly affect the overall appeal of the end result is of course the choice of surface material. Granite considered by many as a premium natural paving stone makes an ideal surface finish for driveways. Advantages include uniform non slip surface, calibrated (consistent ) cut sizes, available in a range of colours and thicknesses, very hard wearing but easy to maintain. Can enhance a contemporary layout but looks equally at home in a classic formal or indeed rustic setting. A very important aspect is also the availability of granite in a range of forms including granite kerbing (ideal for defining planting areas/beds), granite setts which are used at entrances, ramps, to frame pedestrian paths, lawn edging/mowing strips, in fact setts can also be used as an alternative to kerbing as a raised edge for definition, contain pebbles or stone chippings within certain areas etc. Granite steps are available in a range of styles and finishes, with bullnose (rounded profile much nicer than the harsher flat or cut edge common with other materials).
This greater availability of variations allows one to develop very unique and attractive designs for the driveway. With so many formats form which to choose there is really no excuse for a wall to wall dull monotonous finish. Instead one should develop a design that defines driveway structure, proposed usage but equally important a layout which is attractive and compliments the owners house. Ideally the design aesthetics should exploit the various material forms in such a way as to provide an overall coherent look and finish. Subtle details like consistent narrow joints, accurate cutting, gentle but consistent curves are clear evidence of great skill and workmanship. Poor execution can destroy the overall results. Granite is unforgiving in so far as any and all errors will be evident, but done well, it is a superb, hard wearing and easily maintained surface.
Ultimately the success of any design will be largely affected by the quality of the installation. Nothing worse than seeing premium materials used poorly and in some cases wasted all because the installers did not have the expertise or pride to complete the task. Regrettably granite is more readily available than there are competent contractors to install the driveway. There are specialist landscapers who design and install driveways but here too research is required to identify suitable candidates.
