Here we look at driveway ideas for a natural looking aesthetic and how you can achieve this through choice of materially and design.

Natural-Looking Driveway Ideas

Today there is a huge demand for modern and contemporary architecture. Homes of strong forms are being designed that push boundaries and utilise the latest technology. Yet, we’re seeing a trend of more people moving back to basics. Contemporary architecture combines natural materials of timber, stone and concrete. Similarly, spaces are simplified and the ‘less is more’ approach is taking hold.

This ethos is also true for driveways. We once saw a demand for slick, modern spaces, now homeowners are opting for a driveway that’s natural, grounded and blends more seamlessly with the landscape.

Choosing a driveway material that is functional and Sympathic to its setting will enhance the charm of your home. reaffirming its relationship with nature.

Best materials for a natural-looking driveway

Here, we look at some driveway ideas of how to best achieve a natural look.

Sesame cobblestones line the driveway with a Barrimah traditional format retaining wall
Sesame cobblestones feature as the driveway material | Project by Annabelle Chapman Architects

Cobblestones are an ideal choice for creating a natural-looking driveway.

The materiality and tonal variation in the Cobblestones welcomes a look that is reminiscent of the earth beneath your feet. Importantly, Cobblestones are able to work with a variety of driveway layouts to reflect to the landscape.

Earthy tones, creams and beiges work sympathetically with natural surroundings. Sesame (pictured above) are a perfect example of this outcome.

EcoOutdoor FL Filetti Porphyry 02
Driveway ideas: Filetti, a traditional stone format found all across Europe

Filetti

This style of driveway paving reflects the natural stone used in alpine regions throughout Europe for centuries. It evokes thoughts of fresh mountain air and quaint European towns.

As well as its undeniable aesthetic appeal, Filetti is perfect for steep driveway inclines or for creating a point of difference using a linear format.

EcoOutdoor FL Crazypaving Porphyry 01
Porphry crazy paving creates an organic natural driveway

Crazy Paving

Crazy Paving, or flagstone, is a popular style of driveway paving that feels raw, yet alive.

The earthy, burnt tones of Porphyry crazy paving offers a driveway organic colour variation and texture allowing for strong visual appeal.

Enhance the natural look of a crazy paving driveway by integrating garden beds into the design as pictured above. Even allowing a ground cover to grow between the natural stone, creating a living look and feel also works beautifully.

EcoOutdoor Pebbles Anvil
Anvil pebbles laid as decorative feature between granite stepping stones

Match Pebbles to Path

A rural property can maintain a traditional look by matching the loose pebbles on its driveway with concrete pavers in a similar colour for its garden pathways. This soft scheme will compliment a countryside setting. The natural colour variation makes a pebble driveway easy to maintain in the tough climate of regional Australia.

Another way to utilise pebbles in a natural-looking driveway would be to choose a colour that ties in with the local landscaping. Mixed with another natural stone similar in colour.

Always Remember…

There are endless driveway ideas to create a natural looking driveway. Each driveway material has its own maintenance requirements and therefore some materials are more durable than others. Always consider the individual characteristics of any material when using in a driveway setting.

Beyond engineering, materials and laying the driveway, it’s important factor in the varying long-term costs associated with different types of driveways.

Creating a stone paved driveway carries relatively higher up-front installation costs, as a result maintenance costs long term are relatively low.

Speak with an engineering professional and seek advice from relevant government bodies before undertaking any work on your driveway. This ensure it meets all necessary regulations.