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Last updated: 14 February 2024
15 modern driveway ideas
Your driveway is probably the first thing people see when they arrive at your home, so be sure to make the best first impression! Take a look at some of our modern driveway ideas for inspiration.
Have you been considering laying a new driveway for a while now but not 100% convinced on a particular design that you love and that’s going to stand the test of time?
We know that this can feel like a big investment (because it is!) but we’ve got some modern driveway ideas below that we hope will help you.
Modern driveway paving ideas
Grey cobbles
Cobbled driveways aren’t a particularly cheap option. However, they are long lasting and are said to last between 50-60 years!
There are also lots of different options for cobbles - different shapes, sizes and colours to choose from and you can also get creative with how you want them laid.
Pretty pattern
No one wants a driveway with zero character or kerb appeal. Consider different options for how you want your driveway to look and feel.
Choose block paving in different shades to add a contrast to your driveway. And don't forget the sleek border too.
Herringbone
Ask your driveway installer to see if they can lay your paving slabs or bricks in a herringbone formation. This is a particularly stylish design that has now become a classic with interior and exterior flooring.
Be inspired by the driveway pictured above and opt for different coloured bricks for contrast.
Modern gravel driveway ideas
Gravel border with greenery
Use gravel as either a border to your driveway or a way of breaking up the space.
A section of gravel on the edge of your driveway can be a great place to house greenery and lighting. This can really take your driveway to the next level!
Choose a grey coloured gravel to match a grey driveway - ideal for a contemporary property.
Resin bound gravel
Resin driveways are extremely low maintenance and durable. You won’t have any issues with repositioning slabs or weeds growing through.
Resin bound gravel otherwise known as a ‘stone carpet’ definitely isn’t a cheap solution but it requires little TLC and it looks really effective.
Take a look at our guide to how much a resin bound driveway could cost.
Country gravel
If you live in a period property or a rural setting you may want to be considerate of the type of driveway you choose. An industrial style tarmac driveway or a contemporary grey gravel driveway may not be the best option.
However, loose sand coloured gravel will blend in seamlessly with the surrounding landscape and will suit this type of property better.
Gravel feature
Create a feature in the middle of your driveway with a designed gravel section. This will create a natural boundary on your driveway as well as being a point of interest. Use this gravel area to plant trees and shrubs to bring colour and life to the front of your home.
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Modern driveway landscaping ideas
Incorporate a flower bed
Speak to a local landscaper to see how you can seamlessly design your driveway to be at one with the surrounding landscape. Adding flower beds at the side of your driveway can make it feel less industrial and more homely.
We recommend choosing plants that are green all year round and that are low maintenance.
Gravel edging
Add some interest to the edges of your driveway by adding intentional gravel patches. You can then plant shrubs and bushes into them to add height and texture to your driveway.
Be sure to choose a coloured gravel that best suits the exterior of your home.
Bark and shrubs
Instead of using gravel at the edge of your driveway, opt for bark instead. This is a more plant friendly material that will allow shrubs and plants to grow better. It also has a rustic feel to it, which may suit your home better.
Modern driveway gate ideas
Anthracite panels
Looking for modern driveway entrance ideas? Anthracite horizontal panels are a contemporary option that seems to be bang on trend.
If the rest of your home features dark colours then it will definitely suit your overall theme. Horizontal fence panels are also a more contemporary option than the traditional vertical designs.
Take a look at more driveway gate ideas.
Open gates
If you’re not too bothered about privacy then choosing a more open design may be the right choice for you.
The gates pictured above offer little to no privacy but still offer a sense of security and add a natural boundary to the driveway.
Wooden driveway gate
If anthracite gates feel too dark for you then you may want to consider using wood panels instead. You can still bring a contemporary edge to your gates by choosing ones with black framing like the ones pictured above.
Traditional design
Sometimes, traditional designs are the best. These classic wooden gates are a beautifully intricate shape and they definitely offer a certain level of privacy.
Use a wood stain to get the desired colour and finish that you’re after. A cool toned timber naturally feels more modern.
Iron gates
Choose to install iron gates at the end of your driveway if you want a simple but sophisticated look. They are just as much of a classic design as wooden gates but they have a more streamline feel to them.
Choose gates with a swirly floral design for a bit more character.
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