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Side view of Ashburton landscape design with different types of succulents

What Material Should I Use For My Driveway?

November 8, 2020
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Budgeting, Construction, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Materials, Paving
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2 Comments
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Posted by Parveen

If you think of your home as your ‘castle,’ your driveway is the entrance.  It ‘welcomes’ you home every day. Because of this, it needs to be something you enjoy looking at and, ideally, needs to be low maintenance, as many of us are time-poor these days. Your driveway is a prominent feature of your house, so it’s a crucial decision.

These days, you’re spoiled for choice in the type of material you can use for driveways. Going back a decade or so, the only options you had were asphalt (road base), plain concrete, paving, or gravel.  What type of material you choose for your driveway may ultimately come down to price, so knowing your price range before you start looking will make it easier for you.

Selecting a suitable material will be crucial and adds value to your property.  Good drainage is vital, and you may also need to see if there are any specific drainage/permeability regulations in your areas. You certainly don’t want to get a new driveway and then find out that you must rip it all up as it doesn’t meet the requirements.

Paving

Paving used to be the popular choice for driveways. Asphalt was practical but something that needed to be resurfaced when it wore down, and aesthetically it wasn’t an option most people went for.

The three main types of paving used were stone, clay (brick), or concrete. These days, high end houses still have paved driveways as they give off a “high-end look” and have “curb appeal.”  But you’ll also have to pay a “high-end price.” They take longer to lay than other pavers, adding to your labour costs. So you’ll have to weigh whether you want to fork out the dollars.

The materials have evolved with this option with the availability of cobbles, crazy paving, or larger porcelain pieces.  Intricate brickwork is not usually designed unless it suits the house’s character and surroundings.

Benefits of Paving

The benefits of natural stone paving are that they’re hard-wearing and long-lasting, with some lasting up to a century if they’re appropriately laid. In addition, they won’t fade in sunlight and tend to look better with age. Finally, with their curb appeal, they can also add value to your property.

Paving stones, sourced from quarries around the world, can be relatively eco-friendly. If possible, use local rocks that have been harvested nearby.

Maintaining Your Pavers

With natural stone paving, you’ll need to keep the maintenance up for weeding as the grout between the pavers does wear down over time.  This is an essential routine as otherwise, it severely detracts from the aesthetic that is trying to be created.  

The other key thing to remember is that paving needs to be pressure cleaned & sealed at least every couple of years to ensure the driveway looks good over time.  This is where a lot of people falter, and as a result, the paved driveway will not look good over time.

Bluestone Cobbles Melbourne
Front entrance garden beds of a new build in Camberwell

It should be noted that porcelain is not natural stone and will retain more heat (generally compared to the natural stone of the same depth) but is easier to maintain as it doesn’t need to be sealed.  It is just a pressure wash and cleans whenever it looks like it needs it, so some clients choose this option over natural stone.

Red bricks used as driveway material

Clay (Brick) Pavers

Fashion comes and goes, and this is even the case with pavers. Buyers fell out of love with clay pavers a while back, but they now seem to be back in fashion again. They’re naturally fired in a kiln, and they have more of a rustic look which can often suit older looking houses. They are generally more expensive than concrete pavers but cheaper than natural stone (per square meter).

Clay has the benefit of not fading, so you won’t need to replace them to lose its colour, and they also last for decades. One downside is that they can be prone to moss, so speaking to an expert about how you can keep on top of that so it doesn’t get out of control would be a good thing to do.

Permeable Pavement Options

Permeable pavement can be an essential tool for the retention and detention of stormwater runoff. It may provide additional benefits, including reducing the need for de-icing chemicals, and providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing surface. 

The most commonly used are:

  • Pervious Concrete – Concrete with a high void content allows water or air to permeate.
  • Porous Asphalt – Porous material offers many great environmental benefits as it allows water to drain through it, returning water naturally and helping to manage stormwater runoff and drainage problems.
  • Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavers – Solid concrete paving units with joints that create openings in the pavement surface when assembled into a pattern. This allows water to enter the surface freely.
  • Plastic and Concrete Grids – Provide a green solution for erosion. environmentally friendly, allowing water to enter the ground rather than stormwater systems.

Pros and Cons Of Using Permeable Pavement

Advantages:

  • With many of us trying to be more self-conscious of being environmentally friendly, permeable payment can be made using recycled materials. This also helps with reducing landfill space.
  • For those who live in colder areas of the country, you won’t find any ice formation on your driveway as any water and precipitation seeps through the pavement.
  • On the other hand, in the summertime, your pavement will stay cool due to the spread of water and precipitation. Additionally, its lighter colour also helps in the same.

Disadvantages:

  • It’s generally more expensive to install compared to traditional options
  • It does require a fair bit of maintenance. It is prone to clogging if the water in the tank isn’t drained out effectively. The sand and small particles that block the area between the pavers must be extracted using a vacuum cleaner. 

It can even block when you sand for ice during the wintertime. If you do not accommodate blocking swiftly, it will cause the water and toxins to run off the surface area, eliminating the purpose of setting up permeable pavements.                 

Concrete Pours

Plain and Painted/Stencilled Concrete

Concrete provides a smooth, stable, and secure foundation that holds up well in any climate. Again, you’re spoiled for choice with various mixes, and colours available. As discussed above, it has the bonus that it’s usually cheaper than paving your driveway.

At the base level, the driveway can be plain concrete, where the top layer is not washed off to reveal the aggregate/stones within its mix/composition.  It’s finished with a rough finish eg. a stippling effect so that it’s not smooth and slippery.

It’s a simple look that can also be personalised and updated with driveway paint (with roughage) if you wish.

Toppings path and plain concrete driveway in Mulgrave landscape

This option also allows for stamping/stencilling part of the driveway if you’d like to introduce some patterns onto an otherwise “boring” and plain surface.  Some may say this option is outdated but it’s a ,personal choice and can suit some clients/designs.

Maintenance

From a maintenance perspective, like the paved driveway option, you still need to pressure wash, clean and seal every couple of years. This is not a maintenance aspect that you can forgo if you like your driveway to look good over the long term.

While concrete can last a long time, the downside is that the colour of the plain concrete option will eventually start to fade, so you’ll need to consider whether you’ll still like the faded look. But, on the other hand, you could update it with paint as described above if you wish.

If having an environmentally friendly driveway is crucial to you, then there may be a better way to go, as cement is one of the most significant contributors to carbon dioxide emissions (CO2).

Aerial view of Mount Waverley garden design

Aggregate Concrete

This is a modern option that most people go for with slight modifications as required (eg mixing it up with paving, brickwork etc.).  It looks good and suits most houses, from the most contemporary to the most traditional.  

The key difference with the plain concrete pour option, as mentioned above, is that the finished result of this option reveals the aggregate/stones that you have chosen after washing off the top layer of the concrete, ie. you select the colours of the stone mix.  This layer is sealed.  

The base concrete colour is another variant that you can choose – the dark/greyer bases are less expensive than the lighter coloured ones (which were very popular in the ‘80s). 

The cost of an aggregate pour driveway is more than the plain concrete pour option but would be less than having a fully paved driveway, mainly due to less labour time.  

The trend tends to be blacks/greys presumably because of the perception that it shows less dust/dirt and is “easier” to maintain but lighter colours are making a comeback.

Maintenance

From a maintenance perspective, irrespective of the colour base (dark or light) or mix (stones) you use, I can’t stress enough, you still need to pressure wash, clean and seal every couple of years. This is not a maintenance aspect that you can forgo if you like your driveway to look good over the long term.

Grassed/Turf Grid Driveways

Grass block pavers, which can also be known as turf block pavers or grow-through pavers—are an alternative to traditional options. They can be made from concrete or recycled plastic. They have open cells that allow grass to grow through them. At the end of the day, they’re an eco-friendly option for driveways.

The turf grid is a simple solution to control soil erosion around your home. They’re great for slopes where you need to stop erosion. Let’s take a look at the pros of using this option for your driveway:

  • They reduce stormwater runoff which is one of the biggest sources of water pollution. The grass and soil in your grow-through pavers will filter out the pollutants, so the water that returns to the earth is clean.
  • They’re definitely easier on the eye than slabs of concrete.
  • As they absorb water, grass block pavers slow down the water that races over pavement in a rainstorm, preventing erosion.
Turf grid melbourne

With everything that has advantages, there are bound to be some disadvantages as well so let’s take a look at the cons of having grass and turf block pavers.

  • Where you find grass you’re likely to find weeds, so there is maintenance when it comes to this option. You’ll need to water, mow and maybe fertilise
  • If cost is a factor then this eco-friendly option may not be for you. They can cost up to double the price of asphalt.
  • They’ll need to be replaced every 10-15 years and cracks may need to be patched up.
Toppings path and grassy planting in Mulgrave front garden

Toppings Driveways

Toppings is essentially a composition of gravel/screenings/pebbles, dirt and cement so it hardens up like concrete after a few rains.

Like the gravel option further discussed below, this is a very cost effective option but falters when it comes to maintenance and aesthetics (unless you’re after a more natural rustic style). It is a practical option but won’t give you curb appeal if that’s what you are after. 

It’s low maintenance in the sense there will not be weeds coming through the bottom of the material, given the cement mixed in but will have weeds/algae growing on it over time.  So like the gravel option below, it needs to be weeded on a routine basis to keep it looking the best.

It’s also a stable surface that sheds water quickly so it is “permeable”.  It can easily be refreshed with a ‘top-up’ application once the material has settled or if it requires refilling after some time – that’s usually every 2-3 years to keep the driveway looking good.

Gravel Driveways

Out of all the materials we mention today, gravel is the cheapest driveway material (in the short term). It’s a natural product that can be reused and can also be a reusable choice. In addition, gravel has many benefits, lasting up to 100 years, and is an excellent option for budget-conscious buyers. 

It’s low maintenance, with raking over it once a week to keep the weeds at bay, so you can see if it’s sunk in any areas. It’s a stable surface that sheds water quickly. It can easily be refreshed with a ‘top-up’ application once the material has settled or if it requires refilling after some time.

The downside of gravel driveways is that it’s VERY prone to weeds as more people are not great at raking it often or weeding the weeds out as they occur, not great for pushing a pram, and DEFINITELY do not work if you’re wearing high heels after a night out

Gravel path

Conclusion

So now all you have to do is decide what type of driveway you want for the entrance to your “castle.”

For more information on paving have a look at our earlier articles here:

Paving in landscape design and construction

Bluestone paving

If you need further suggestions or design or plantscaping both indoors and outdoors, please contact us for an onsite 90 minute consultation. 

Refer to our packages for further detail on how we can help you in the consults and subsequently throughout your garden implementation process

Our passion your garden! xx

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inspiringlandscapes.com.au

🌿Beautiful, Natural, and Worth the TLC - Wood i 🌿Beautiful, Natural, and Worth the TLC - Wood in the Garden🌿⁠
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Wood brings warmth, texture, and timeless charm to any garden, whether it’s rustic garden borders, stylish timber pots, or raised veggie beds. But let’s be real: while wood looks impressive, it also needs a bit of love to keep it looking (and lasting) its best.⁠
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Here are a few easy maintenance tips to help your wooden garden elements thrive through the seasons:⁠
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🔨 1. Seal the Deal⁠
Apply a garden-safe wood sealer or natural oil (like linseed or tung oil) once a year to protect against moisture, UV damage, and rot, especially for timber that’s in direct contact with soil or water.⁠
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🚿 2. Elevate Where You Can⁠
If you’re using wood pots or planters, raise them slightly off the ground using feet or bricks to prevent water from soaking into the base. Drainage = wood longevity!⁠
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🌧️ 3. Watch for Trouble Spots⁠
Keep an eye on areas where water pools or where soil stays damp. Rot loves those hidden corners. A quick brush and dry-off after heavy rain can do wonders.⁠
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🌿 4. Choose Wisely⁠
Hardwoods like spotted gum or ironbark hold up better outdoors, but even treated pine or recycled sleepers can do the job if they are well-maintained.⁠
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🧼 5. Clean Seasonally⁠
A gentle scrub with a brush and soapy water can help remove dirt, algae, and mildew before they have a chance to settle in.⁠
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Wood blends beautifully into garden spaces, softening hard edges and adding a natural feel, but a little care goes a long way in keeping it strong, stylish, and ready for years of garden glory.⁠
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📸Hollowed out log used as a pot, Phuket, Thailand
🌼🎨 Colour-Packed Crowd-Pleasers - Argyranthe 🌼🎨 Colour-Packed Crowd-Pleasers - Argyranthemums! 🎨🌼⁠
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If your garden needs a splash of colour and a whole lot of cheer, look no further than the Argyranthemum — also known as the marguerite daisy. These little floral firecrackers are bursting with personality and make every garden bed or pot pop with vivid colour and life.⁠
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From brilliant whites and buttery yellows to punchy pinks and fiery oranges, Argyranthemums are all about making a statement. And with their compact shape and long flowering season, they’re not just pretty — they’re practical too.⁠
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🌞 Sun-loving? Yep.⁠
🐝 Pollinator-friendly? Absolutely.⁠
👨🏻‍🌾 Happy in pots, borders, and garden beds? 100%.⁠
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They’re the kind of plant that instantly lifts a space, drawing the eye and creating instant impact. Perfect for gardeners who love bold blooms without the fuss.⁠ Because let’s be honest — sometimes your garden just needs a little extra zing. ❤️⁠
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📸Argyranthemums, Phillip Island⁠
Geometry in Motion 🎋⁠ ⁠ Part of the brief f Geometry in Motion 🎋⁠
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Part of the brief for the backyard was to create an extended outdoor entertaining area that is multifunctional and relatively low-maintenance. My client wanted her front garden to have street appeal, and to be honest, who doesn’t? ⁠
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Here is a snippet of my client, Shelley Kaur’s review:⁠
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“I found Parveen from Inspiring Landscapes to be extremely professional and knowledgeable. We did not have a complete picture of what our garden should look like. ⁠
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Parveen listened to our needs and then applied her expertise - the result is a beautiful and vibrant outdoors that we are now enjoying. Quite often, strangers and neighbours walk past and compliment us on our garden. I am very happy with Parveen’s work and will gladly use her services again.”⁠
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If you would love to read all of Shelley’s review and their project brief for their stunning garden, head on over to my website: ⁠
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https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/portfolios/murrumbeena/⁠
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📸Murrumbeena - April 2021
🐞Not All Garden Guests Are Pests! 🐛🕷️⁠
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Sure, they might crawl, buzz, or wriggle — but insects and critters are the unsung heroes of your garden. While they may not win any beauty contests (sorry, slaters), they’ve got some serious skills when it comes to keeping your green space happy and healthy. 🌿✨⁠
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🐞 Ladybugs gobble up aphids like it’s their full-time job.⁠
🕷️ Spiders? Nature’s pest control experts.⁠
🐛 Worms work the night shift, aerating your soil and boosting nutrients.⁠
🐝 Bees and butterflies are your ultimate pollinator pals, making sure your flowers bloom and your fruit trees thrive.⁠
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Even those odd little beetles and mysterious mini critters have a purpose — they break down organic matter, improve soil health, and keep your garden ecosystem balanced. 💪🌏⁠
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So before you squish, spray, or shoo, take a moment to observe. Your garden is a bustling, buzzing world full of helpful life. And yes, even the creepy crawlies have earned their place.⁠
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After all, a thriving garden isn’t just about plants — it’s about the whole community that keeps it growing. 🐜💚⁠
What a beautiful reminder that paradise isn’t a What a beautiful reminder that paradise isn’t a place, it’s a feeling. It’s found in the little things we love sincerely and wholeheartedly.⁠
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Whether it’s tending to your garden at sunrise, experimenting with colours in your outdoor space, cooking with herbs you’ve grown yourself, or collecting moments of calm among the flowers, you’re already building your version of paradise, one passion at a time.⁠
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Because loving many things, with intention and joy, is what gives life richness. A garden, after all, is just a patch of earth until someone fills it with care, creativity, and meaning.⁠
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So plant what makes your heart sing. Decorate with what inspires you. And never be afraid to fill your space (and your days) with the things you love most.⁠
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🕶️🌴 A View to a Thrill: Nature at James Bo 🕶️🌴 A View to a Thrill: Nature at James Bond Island, Phuket 🌴🕶️⁠
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Tucked within the emerald waters of Phang Nga Bay, James Bond Island (also known as Khao Phing Kan) is more than just a cinematic icon; it's a botanical wonderland, wrapped in limestone cliffs and lush tropical greenery.⁠
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Made famous by The Man with the Golden Gun, this dramatic rock formation rising from the sea looks straight out of a film set—and yet, it's real, very wild, and completely mesmerising. 🌊⁠
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Around the island, nature takes the spotlight. Towering limestone karsts are draped in greenery. Mangrove forests ripple with birdlife. And tropical flora, from hardy coastal palms to trailing vines, thrives in this dramatic, salt-sprayed environment. Even the smallest nooks are filled with textures and tones that feel like living art.⁠
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It's a vivid reminder that nature knows how to design drama better than any Hollywood set. 🌿✨⁠
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Whether you're a Bond fan, a plant lover, or just someone who chases beauty around the world, James Bond Island proves that gardens aren't always planted; they're sometimes sculpted by nature herself.⁠
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#JamesBondIsland #PhuketNature #WildLandscapes #TropicalGardens #PhangNgaBay #NatureIsTheDesigner #IslandInspo #BotanicalBeauty #GardenWanderlust #InspiringLandscapes⁠ #workingholiday #familytime⁠
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📸James Bond Island, Phuket, Thailand
🍂 Winter may be winding down, but your veggie p 🍂 Winter may be winding down, but your veggie patch is just getting started! Did you know the real secret to a thriving spring harvest begins now? Here’s how to get ahead while everyone else is packing away the garden gloves:⁠
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🥦 Feed your soil like it’s at a 5-star restaurant — compost, manure, worm castings, the works.⁠
🌱 Plant cool-season legends (think garlic, kale, spinach, broad beans) that love the crisp air.⁠
🍂 Clear out old crops and weeds — but compost them to recycle nutrients back into your soil.⁠
🚿 Don’t overwater! Cooler temps mean slower evaporation.⁠
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✨ Pro tip: Plan your spring crops now. The gardeners who dream ahead are the ones with the fullest baskets later.⁠
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So before autumn waves goodbye, give your veggie patch the TLC it deserves. Come spring, you’ll be thanking your past self with every crunchy carrot and juicy tomato! Read our blog below to get started. 🍅🥕⁠
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👉 https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/what-to-grow-in-your-vegetable-patch-in-spring/⁠
🌿✨ From Garden to Plate: The Magic of Herbs & 🌿✨ From Garden to Plate: The Magic of Herbs & Spices ✨🌿⁠
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There’s something incredibly satisfying and rewarding about stepping into your garden, cutting a sprig of rosemary or a handful of basil, and using it moments later in the kitchen. Growing your herbs and spices isn’t just practical, it’s flavour, fragrance, and freshness right at your fingertips.⁠
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👩🏻‍🌾Why grow your own?⁠
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Nothing beats the taste of herbs harvested straight from the garden. They’re cost-effective, easy to grow (even in pots or small spaces), and most are naturally pest-resistant. Plus, the scent of thyme, mint, or lemongrass in the garden is an experience in itself.⁠
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🌱 Herbs to try:⁠
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– Basil for pastas and pestos⁠
– Coriander for zesty salads and curries⁠
– Rosemary & thyme for roast veggies and meats⁠
– Mint for teas, cocktails, and desserts⁠
– Chilli for a fiery kick in just about everything!⁠
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💡 Don’t forget: many herbs double as stunning garden plants, attracting pollinators and adding lush greenery or even delicate flowers to your beds.⁠
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And the best part? You don’t need a sprawling garden to make it work. A sunny windowsill, a balcony pot, or a corner of your veggie bed is all it takes to grow your fresh flavours.⁠
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Go ahead and plant something delicious. Your future self (and your dinner guests) will thank you. 🍃🍽️⁠
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With its rich, deep burgundy foliage that looks al With its rich, deep burgundy foliage that looks almost too perfect to be real, Sedum ‘Desert Black’ is one of those plants that makes you stop and stare. ⁠
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Its glossy, smooth leaves catch the light in a way that gives them an almost sculptural quality, as if they’ve been handcrafted from polished stone or dipped in molten glass. Honestly, it’s no wonder people often mistake it for being artificial!⁠
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But this plant is more than just good looks. It’s part of the stonecrop family, which means it’s incredibly hardy, drought-tolerant, and thrives with minimal fuss. Whether it’s in a container, rock garden, or lining a sunny border, this sedum adds drama, texture, and contrast without asking for much in return.⁠
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Pair it with soft grasses, silvery succulents, or bright green foliage for an extra wow factor. ⁠
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Nature outdid herself with this one. 😍⁠
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📸Mt Waverley project 3 years on
🎨🌿 Why Colour Captivates Us 🌿🎨⁠ ⁠ 🎨🌿 Why Colour Captivates Us 🌿🎨⁠
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Ever wondered why a deep red rose stops you in your tracks? Or why a bright yellow daisy feels like sunshine on a cloudy day? Colour isn’t just something we see, it’s something we feel.⁠
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In nature, colour is a silent language. It draws us in, lifts our mood, and creates an emotional connection. From the calming greens of foliage to the joyful burst of pink in a blooming camellia, each hue plays a role in shaping our experience of the world around us.⁠
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🧠 Scientifically, colour affects our brain chemistry.⁠
💛 Emotionally, it connects us to memories, feelings, and places.⁠
🌺 Visually, it’s what turns a garden from a space into a story.⁠
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And then there’s blue, the colour of water, and one of the most universally loved hues in nature. Whether it’s a turquoise sea, a deep navy lake, or the clear blue of a swimming pool, there’s something about water that draws us in. ⁠
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Blue is a calming, expansive, and reflective colour. It reminds us to breathe, to pause, to let go. For many, simply looking at the ocean can shift a mood entirely, offering a sense of peace and perspective that’s hard to find elsewhere.⁠
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In our gardens, colour gives us the chance to express personality, evoke emotion, and create atmosphere. A palette of cool blues and whites can soothe, while fiery oranges and purples can energise and excite. Whether intentional or instinctive, the colours we’re drawn to often reflect something within us.⁠
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So next time you’re planting, designing, or even just going for a walk, notice which colours catch your eye — and how they make you feel. Nature doesn’t choose colours by accident … and maybe we don’t either.⁠
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📸Oyster Cave, Phuket, Thailand
There’s something quietly powerful in this quote There’s something quietly powerful in this quote, isn’t there?⁠
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In a world filled with noise, explanation, and constant updates, flowers do the opposite. They don’t ask for attention or justify their beauty; they bloom. Fully. Boldly. Without needing to say a word.⁠
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It’s a gentle reminder that presence can be more impactful than performance. Being true to your nature, showing up with colour, grace, and resilience, speaks volumes, without needing to say a word.⁠
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In the garden, this is where the real magic happens. A single blossom can brighten a corner. A quiet bloom can lift your mood. And an unexpected burst of colour can stop you in your tracks, reminding you to slow down and take it all in.⁠
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So today, take a moment to appreciate the flowers, not just for how they look, but for what they teach us: to lead by example, to live in full colour, and to show up without needing to explain why.⁠
⁠
🌸 How to Keep Your Rhododendrons Happy (and Flo 🌸 How to Keep Your Rhododendrons Happy (and Flowering Like Magic) ✨

There’s something undeniably stunning about a Rhododendron in full bloom. With their lush, glossy leaves and show-stopping clusters of flowers, they bring a burst of elegance and drama to any garden. 

Here’s how to give your Rhododendrons the VIP treatment this month:

🧹 Clean-up & Deadheading
Start by gently removing any dead or spent flowers left over from last season. This not only tidies up the plant but also helps direct energy into new growth and bud development. Just remember to snip carefully just above the first set of healthy leaves.

🌿 Check the Soil
Rhododendrons love slightly acidic, well-drained soil, so now’s a great time to check your pH levels and top up with some organic compost or specialised rhododendron fertiliser. If your soil is too alkaline, consider adding a bit of sulphur.

🍂 Mulch Magic
Add a fresh layer of mulch (pine bark or leaf litter) around the base of the plant. This helps retain moisture, keeps the roots cool, and slowly feeds the soil.

✂️ Light Pruning
August is perfect for light shaping. If your rhododendron has grown a little wild, trim back any unruly or crossing branches to encourage a more compact, bushy form. This also improves air circulation, which keeps fungal issues at bay.

☀️ Sunlight & Shelter
Ensure your plant receives the optimal amount of filtered sunlight. Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, while too much shade can limit flowering. If your plant’s in a pot, now’s the time to reposition it before buds start forming.

💧 Water Wisely
Although the weather may still be calm, don’t let your rhododendron dry out. They like consistently moist (but not soggy) soil. Deep watering every couple of weeks during dry spells will keep the roots strong and ready to support blooming.

🌸 Final tip? Be patient.
The groundwork you do now sets the stage for a brilliant season ahead. 
Got a favourite rhodo colour? Let us know in the comments — white, pink, crimson, or bold magenta? 🌺

📸Glen Iris design 2023
✨ Ever heard of flacking? It’s mosaic’s more ✨ Ever heard of flacking? It’s mosaic’s more relaxed, creative cousin, a joyful garden art form where broken tiles, plates, and glass find new life under your feet, on a table, or lining your garden beds.⁠
⁠
Flacking brings colour, personality, and a touch of imperfection to your space — and that’s the point. It’s not about precision; it’s about expression. ⁠
⁠
From vibrant stepping stones to decorative risers or a mosaic feature wall, flacking turns everyday items into art with soul.⁠
⁠
What’s even more beautiful? Every piece tells a story. That chipped teacup from your grandma’s set or the plate you dropped at a dinner party? ⁠
⁠
In flacking, it’s not a waste; it’s a legacy. Like kintsugi, it embraces the cracks and turns them into something golden.⁠
⁠
💡 Here’s a tip: Start small! Try a single stepping stone or a decorative pot. Once you get the hang of it, you might find yourself flacking your way through the garden like a creative whirlwind.⁠
⁠
Got a collection of broken treasures hiding in a box? It might be time to bring them out, dust them off, and let them shine in your garden — not as clutter, but as living, storytelling design. 🌿🎨⁠
⁠
To read more about flacking, check out our latest blog post: www.inspiringlandscapes.com.au/garden-with-a-flacking-twist/⁠
🌳✨ Never Underestimate the Power of a Good Tr 🌳✨ Never Underestimate the Power of a Good Tree ✨🌳⁠
⁠
Shady trees aren’t just beautiful; they’re one of the most valuable additions you can make to your garden. Whether it’s a place to enjoy your morning coffee, read a book, or escape the midday sun, having a shady spot to relax can completely transform how you use your outdoor space.⁠
⁠
☀️ Why does shade matter?⁠
⁠
Because it invites you to slow down and stay outside longer, trees help cool the air, reduce glare, and protect your garden from harsh afternoon heat. They create natural outdoor “rooms” that feel peaceful, sheltered, and soothing.⁠
⁠
Suppose you’re looking to plant for shade. In that case, a few standout favourites include the Crepe Myrtle, with its stunning bark and soft summer canopy, or the ever-popular Jacaranda, which offers wide, spreading shade and a magical purple bloom in late spring. ⁠
⁠
For native gardens, Tristaniopsis Laurina (Water Gum) is a great pick, offering filtered shade and glossy foliage that works beautifully in contemporary landscapes.⁠
⁠
🌿 Bonus benefits? Trees add structure and height, provide privacy, support native wildlife, and increase the value of your home. All while offering you the simplest luxury — somewhere to sit, breathe, and just be.⁠
⁠
So if your garden’s missing that one perfect shady spot, maybe it’s time to plant something that future you will thank you for.⁠
⁠
📸Mark Vanden Boom’s design in Kew 🤩
SNEAK PEEK! 😍⁠ ⁠ You’re the first to see SNEAK PEEK! 😍⁠
⁠
You’re the first to see this (besides my client). This design is a stunning ⁠retreat area for my client’s wife. It includes a meditation and relaxation space where she can be surrounded by lush greenery and zone out from the hustle and bustle of the real world by reading or relaxing.⁠
⁠
I’ve designed many areas like this for clients before. ⁠The composition consideration in developing the area is always the same: balancing the spatial interaction between practical use and navigation needs. ⁠
⁠
Next is considering seating, styling, and greenery/plants 🌱. However, given that each client is different and has unique needs, the area’s design for each client ultimately becomes unique. ⁠
⁠
While a designer always injects their preferences, ideas, and aesthetic qualities, I believe it’s essential to pay attention to my client’s specific needs. They want to be immersed in things that calm them and bring joy to their day.⁠
⁠
Can you see yourself relaxing in a beautiful courtyard like this?💚⁠ If so, contact me today to get your plans started.⁠
⁠
📸 Glen Iris project’s rear relaxation area⁠. Incoming in 2027!⁠
🦉🐾 Add a Little Personality to Your Garden ( 🦉🐾 Add a Little Personality to Your Garden (One Sculpture at a Time!) 🌿✨⁠
⁠
Your garden is more than just a place to grow plants — it’s a space to reflect who you are. One of our favourite ways to give a garden that extra personal touch? Sculptures and small statues! 🎨🪴⁠
⁠
Whether it’s an owl tucked under a tree, a curious fox peeking from behind a shrub, or even a playful dinosaur your kids insisted on keeping (and now secretly love), these little pieces tell a story. ⁠They bring warmth, character, and a touch of surprise to every corner of your outdoor space.⁠
⁠
Do you have a favourite animal? A family joke? A symbol that means something to you? Let it shine in your garden! These details create a space that feels both designed and lived in, and loved.⁠
⁠
Bonus? Kids adore finding familiar faces hidden among the greenery, and guests will always ask, “Where did you get that?” So go ahead, plant your personality right alongside your plants. 🌸💫⁠
⁠
📸Mount Waverley project 2020⁠
⁠
We pass by beauty every single day; on our walks 🚶‍♀️, in our gardens, even in our backyards — but how often do we see it? Not just a glance, but an actual pause. ⁠
⁠
A moment to notice the small things: a single bloom pushing through the grass, the bees busy at work, sunlight hitting a leaf just right. 🐝⁠
⁠
In gardening and life, it’s easy to focus on the big picture 💭—the completed design, the freshly mulched bed, the “before and after” wow factor. But the tiny, quiet details often hold the most meaning. ⁠The kind of beauty that doesn’t demand your attention but offers it freely to anyone is still enough to notice.⁠
⁠
So slow down next time you’re in the garden or walking through the park. Look closer. You might spot a flower you’ve passed a hundred times before … and see it for the first time.⁠ It’s not about having more, it’s about just noticing more. 💚🌼⁠
🚗🌿 Driveway Gardens: Where First Impressions 🚗🌿 Driveway Gardens: Where First Impressions Begin 🌿🚗⁠
⁠
Your driveway garden does more than guide vehicles; it sets the tone for your home. With tall trees, tidy hedges, and sculptural shrubs lining the way, it’s all about curb appeal and clever design. ⁠
⁠
However, with all that greenery right next to a high-traffic area, effective maintenance is crucial. Here’s how to keep it looking polished (and practical!):⁠
⁠
✂️ Keep it clear: Regularly trim hedges and shrubs to avoid overgrowth that can scratch cars or limit visibility. Think clean lines, but still lush enough to soften the hardscape.⁠
⁠
🌳 Lift the canopy: For tall trees, prune lower branches to maintain a clear line of sight and avoid hazards for cars and pedestrians. A well-managed canopy also brings in dappled light without overwhelming the space.⁠
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🪴 Watch root systems: Large trees near driveways need careful monitoring. Choose species with noninvasive roots or consult a landscaper to prevent damage to paving over time.⁠
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🚿 Rinse and refresh: Driveways collect dust and debris. A quick sweep or hose down helps prevent buildup and keeps your green edges from looking tired or grimy.⁠
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🌼 Layer for interest: Plant low-maintenance groundcovers or hardy shrubs at the base of trees for extra visual impact without additional effort.⁠
⁠
A driveway garden should be as thoughtful as any other part of your landscape: beautiful, functional, and easy to live with.⁠
⁠
📸Highett landscape design project⁠
Buddleja (often referred to as the butterfly bush) Buddleja (often referred to as the butterfly bush) is a true crowd-pleaser. With its soft, spiked clusters of blooms and silvery-green leaves, it’s not a plant just for us humans. ⁠Its flowers come in dreamy shades of lilac, violet, pink, and white, filling your garden with colour and fragrance.⁠
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But here’s the best part: Buddleja is a magnet for life. Bees buzz in, butterflies flutter, and even small native birds stop by for a nectar snack. 🌼🦋🐦 ⁠
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If you’re hoping to create a stunning garden supporting your local ecosystem, this plant is one you’ll want on your team.⁠
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It’s wonderfully low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, sun-loving, and happy in various soils. Give it a good prune after flowering to keep it compact and blooming beautifully.⁠
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Plant it in a sunny border 🌞 near a window where you can watch it grow, or in a wildflower-inspired garden corner. It’s one of those plants that gives back more than it takes. Pretty, practical, and pollinator-approved? Yes, please! 💚🌿 ⁠
⁠P.S. I love how this one looks like it’s peeking over the fence, checking out what’s going on 😉⁠
❄️🌿 Winter Garden Care: Don’t Let the Chi ❄️🌿 Winter Garden Care: Don’t Let the Chill Fool You! 🌿❄️⁠
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While your garden might seem quieter in winter, it’s far from asleep. Beneath the surface, your plants are preparing for spring, and how you care for your garden now can make all the difference when the seasons change.⁠
⁠
Here’s how to show your garden some love during the cooler months:⁠
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🌱 Mulch, mulch, mulch: Adding a thick organic mulch helps insulate roots, suppress weeds, and maintain soil moisture (even in winter!). It also gives your garden beds a tidy, cared-for look during the sparse season.⁠
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✂️ Prune with purpose: Many trees and shrubs benefit from a winter prune. Removing dead or damaged growth shapes your plants and promotes healthy new growth come spring. Just make sure to research the best time for each species.⁠
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🌿 Evergreen structure matters: If your garden feels a little bare, now’s a great time to plant evergreen varieties that provide colour and form all year round. Think viburnum, westringia, or even a camellia or two for winter blooms.⁠
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🚿 Irrigation check-in: Don’t switch off your watering routine completely! Many plants still need hydration, especially in drier climates. Adjust your watering schedule based on rainfall and monitor container plants more closely.⁠
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🧼 Tidy and prep: Clear fallen leaves, clean your tools and check pots and paving for moss or algae build-up. A little maintenance now prevents headaches later.⁠
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Caring for your garden in winter isn’t about doing less; it’s about doing the right things. A little TLC now means stronger, happier plants come spring, and a space you can enjoy even when the mercury drops.⁠
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So grab your beanie, pull on the gloves, and head outside. Your garden still needs you, just in a slightly different way. 🌧️✨⁠
⁠
And for more information on how you can tend to your garden during the cooler months, you can read our blog at https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/winter-garden-care/⁠
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2 Comments

on What Material Should I Use For My Driveway?.
  1. Sam
    January 17, 2023 @ 5:11 pm
    -
    Reply

    I have been searching for the perfect materials for my driveway for what feels like forever! After weeks of research and countless hours spent talking to different contractors, I finally found the answer to my problem in this amazing article. It provided me with all the information and a comprehensive list of different materials I needed to make an informed decision. Thanks to this article, my driveway project is finally underway, and I’m confident I have made the right choice.

  2. Landscape Wellington
    September 4, 2023 @ 7:15 pm
    -
    Reply

    This is a great, comprehensive guide to driveway materials. I’ve always been torn between the durability of paving and the cost-effectiveness of gravel, but this article really breaks down the pros and cons. One tip I’d like to add is considering your climate – if you live in an area with harsh winters, you might want to opt for materials that can withstand freezing temperatures and de-icing chemicals.

    Thanks,
    Matt

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What Material Should I Use For My Driveway? - Inspiring Landscape Solutions