Tom had recently bought this lovely 100 year old house in Boars Hill, Oxford, but the tired old gravel driveway was letting it down, and wasn’t draining well, so he called us in to take a look.

Tom wanted a driveway design that sat well alongside the style of his house and actively complemented and enhanced its features and architectural form.The driveway is a huge expanse, so it’s a key element both in terms of aesthetic appeal and proportions.

We suggested that the driveway be paved using permeable rumbled blocks, and Tom agreed.

By choosing permeable paving blocks and grouting, New Driveway Company will play a crucial role in sustainable urban drainage and mitigating water runoff issues, as well as seamlessly tying in the paving colour with the natural variation of the house.

We started by excavating the old gravel driveway and laying in a new, solid, permeable base to ensure that the new block paved driveway would stay flat and drain well. Then we laid the blocks, using limestone grit to bed them in for strength and permeability.

The patio had been neglected and needed attention to boost the charm of Tom’s lovely garden and pretty landscaping. Relaying the Sandstone slabs, jet washing and replacing the jointing compound breathed new life into the patio and pathways. The result created a revitalised transformation for relaxing and dining, in preparation for the warmer weather.

On a three-week project like this it can be difficult for a homeowner, but we made sure that the disruption to Tom and his family was kept to a minimum and that they always had a clear route to the house in the morning and evening.

The transformed entrance ensures the whole house and driveway work in harmony together, and the upcycled rear paving looks fantastic.

Annual maintenance, including brushing, refilling joints and weed treatment will ensure that this attractive driveway continues to impress both visually and practically.