Charcoal Block Paving: Trentham

This homeowner in Trentham contacted us about a complete redesign of their front garden and driveway area. The existing setup included a deteriorating tarmac driveway and underutilized lawn space that had become difficult to maintain.

They wanted to maximize their parking area while creating a smart, modern entrance to their property. The project would require removing both the old tarmac and front lawn, then installing a substantial new driveway with improved boundary definition.

The Challenge

This comprehensive project required:

• Complete removal of existing tarmac driveway
• Remove front lawn and landscaping
• Design layout maximizing usable driveway space
• Construct new brick boundary wall with decorative coping
• Install premium block paving across large 60m² area
• Ensure proper drainage throughout
• Create level transitions and professional finish

Our Solution

We recommended charcoal block paving in a herringbone pattern for maximum strength and visual appeal. This dark, contemporary finish creates a sleek, modern aesthetic that enhances the property’s kerb appeal.

A new brick boundary wall was constructed to define the property edge, topped with matching block paving coping stones. This provides both practical boundary definition and an attractive architectural feature.

The design maximized the usable driveway space by removing the front lawn entirely, creating ample parking for multiple vehicles while maintaining clean lines and professional finish throughout.

Materials Used

• Main Paving: Charcoal Block Paving in Herringbone Pattern (approximately 60m²)
• Boundary Wall: Engineering Bricks
• Wall Coping: Block Paving Coping Stones
• Sub-Base: MOT Type 1 Hardcore
• Bedding: Sharp Sand
• Jointing: Kiln-Dried Sand
• Edge Restraints: Concrete Haunching

Special Features

• Herringbone Pattern: Traditional laying pattern providing maximum interlock and strength
• New Boundary Wall: Professional brick wall construction with block paving coping
• Maximized Space: Complete removal of lawn creating substantial parking area
• Charcoal Finish: Contemporary dark paving creating premium appearance
• Professional Detailing: Clean cuts around property boundaries and entrance