Having a well designed and properly installed driveway can benefit your property in several ways, from instant kerb appeal to providing you with a practical, hardwearing surface for access to and from your home. In the same way that you would need to consider a number of finished surfaces for your driveway, from brushed concrete and aggregate finishes to the use of pavers, there is also the shape of the driveway to think about as well. There are several styles to consider, and each has a number of benefits. So let’s start by looking at the most straightforward option, in more ways than one!
STRAIGHT DRIVEWAYS
This is the simplest form of driveway, and gives the most direct route up to the property. Technically and practically it is very simple to design, and also to lay and install. It is also the best design for properties that don’t have much room to spare, so it is beneficial to smaller builds. Aesthetically, it is a very geometric, clean and modern shape, so it works well with a modern, new build or a retro Art Deco look, and it is also worth noting that straight driveways provide a very dramatic entry into a large property.
CIRCULAR DRIVEWAYS
On larger properties, the circular drive has to be the most elegant in terms of design. You do need to ensure that the calculations are exact and that the dimensions are right, as this design will take up a larger area of space. However, the flow of movement from vehicles means there will be no backing up or double parking near to the entrance of the home or business. The central area left within the hard surface of the circular drive can also be landscaped to enhance, shade or give privacy to the building.
SEMI-CIRCULAR DRIVEWAYS
This is an option worth considering, as it uses less space than the circular drive, but still offers a very elegant option to the householder or business owner. Safety wise, there is also a big benefit as motorists won’t have to back out onto a busy road, and they still keep a clear view of the road at all times.
L-SHAPED DRIVEWAYS
This is a very useful shape to consider if you have a long, thin entrance up to your property, with a garage area off to the left or right. The bottom part of the driveway takes the vehicle across the bottom of the land and then straight up to the parking or garage section. This means vehicles will not be parked directly within the view point of homeowners, and they also will not take up valuable space that can be used for soft landscaping or a recreation area. Space is a premium here as well as safety, as cars are quickly directed to the appropriate parking area.
S-SHAPED DRIVEWAYS
If you have a sloping entrance to your property, then you might have to consider a “stepped” or winding approach for vehicles and pedestrian entry. Again, this is really for larger areas of land, and the dimensions have to be spot on, but you can build on a gentle incline or slope down. This will slow up vehicle approach so it ensures the safety of any oncoming pedestrians, and design wise, it also makes for a stunning approach to the property.
Review the space you have available, as well as the style and look of your property. As you can see, there are a number of different driveway shapes that will fit your particular needs, so you are sure to find something that suits.
No matter which driveway style you choose, the right design can add both practicality and value to your property. If you’re considering a new driveway and want something durable, functional, and visually appealing, explore our range of concrete driveways in Melbourne to find the perfect fit for your home.