Building the Driveway at the Good Day House with Permeable Turfgrid Pavers
Photography & Styling
Imogen Roberts
When designing the driveway for the Good Day House, we wanted a solution that was both functional and in harmony with the coastal landscape around us. After collaborating with Simon Taylor Landscape Designer, we decided on Adbri Masonry Turfgrid pavers filled with Dromana toppings and surrounded by native plants inspired by the beach tracks along our coastline.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to how we brought this driveway vision to life!
Why We Chose Turf Grid Pavers with Dromana Toppings
Initially, we considered letting grass grow through the pavers, but we ultimately opted for Dromana toppings to create a low-maintenance, coastal feel. Here’s why this combination worked perfectly:
Sustainable: The Turf Grid pavers allow water to drain naturally, reducing runoff and erosion.
Low Maintenance: Dromana toppings create a stable, visually appealing surface that requires minimal upkeep.
Coastal Inspiration: The sandy tones of Dromana toppings fit seamlessly into the natural landscape, reminiscent of the beach tracks that inspired the design.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating the Turfgrid Driveway
1. Planning and Design
With Simon Taylor Landscape Designer, we created a plan that balanced coastal aesthetics with functionality. The design took inspiration from our local beach tracks, using native plants and materials that blend with the surrounding environment. We enlisted the help of AG Landscape Construction, a local landscaping team to execute the plan.
2. Determine the number of pavers, fill and toppings required
Our landscape designer, Simon, measured the length and width of the area to determine the exact dimensions and then calculated the total area in square meters. Referring to the paver specifications, he determined the number of Turf Grid pavers needed to cover the space. He also calculated the quantities of crushed rock, crusher dust, and Dromana toppings required to ensure we had the right amount of materials for a solid, well-prepared driveway foundation.
3. Site Preparation
Following the landscaping plan, our landscapers marked out the driveway. The excavated the site, digging out the area to a depth of around 150mm to create a solid base.
4. Laying the Base
Our landscapers prepared the base by laying a 50mm layer of crushed rock sub-base and compacting it firmly to create a solid foundation. They then added a bedding layer by spreading a 20–30mm layer of crusher dust over the crushed rock, creating a smooth, even surface for the pavers.
5. Installing the Turfgrid Pavers
AGLC installed the Turf Grid pavers by starting at one end and working across the area, fitting the pavers together evenly as they went. Once laid, they lightly compacted the pavers into the sand using a plate compactor to ensure stability.
6. Filling with Dromana Toppings
The next step was to spread the Dromana toppings by filling the grid gaps in the pavers, ensuring an even distribution across the surface. They then used a compactor to press the toppings firmly into place, creating a solid and stable surface. For the final touch, they swept off any excess toppings.
7. Landscaping with Native Plants & Feature Rocks
Simon Taylor selected large feature rocks from Daisy’s Garden Supplies and marked out their ideal placements, creating focal points throughout the landscape.
For the garden edges, we planted all native species adapted to our coastal environment—ensuring a low-maintenance, cohesive look. We then thoroughly watered the plants and added Dromana toppings around them to help retain moisture and protect the soil.
8. Finishing Touches
After some heavy rainfall we toped up the driveway to fill in any areas that had compacted down.
A Collaborative Effort
We were thrilled to work with Simon Taylor, who brought the coastal vision to life with a design inspired by the local landscape. AG Landscape Construction who executed the landscaping with great attention to detail and Daisy’s Garden Supplies, who helped us select the perfect materials for the project.
The End Result
The driveway turned out exactly as we had imagined—blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The Adbri Masonry Turfgrid pavers provide structure and durability, while the Dromana toppings add a soft, coastal finish that ties the whole landscape together. With native plants lining the edges, we’ve created a functional, low-maintenance space that perfectly reflects the beach track inspiration.
We couldn’t be more stoked with the outcome, and we highly recommend this approach if you’re looking for a driveway design that’s both practical and environmentally conscious!
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G’day! We’re Al + Imo
We’re a husband and wife duo, building our dream life one DIY project at a time.
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