Driveway Part II

9 October 2009

Works on the front yard & driveway continues. After the initial setting out, we ventured to deliver some mulch & stones on site. Hence another visit to D's favorite landscape establishment, a local dealer called dirtbark & bits.

dirtbark & bits

We ordered 3 cubic metres of red-gum mulch & 3 cubic metres of stones for our floor covers. As D and I could not agree on which stones to use, we went with a mixture that consists of both our preference - Tuscan & Cream pebbles for the driveway.

mulch & stones

Scattered

Firstly, it was the entry platform - we shoveled some stones to fill in the gaps between the timber sleepers. They were then, packed tightly in place. By the time we finished spreading the stones around, our wheelbarrow, imported all the way from the PRC, has suffered some casualty. It was slightly disabled, and may very likely not wheel again as it used to.

Couple of steps

Later on, D got ambitious, (the weather was close to perfection) and hastily started extending the frontal area. He added a couple of steps to the platform using some red-gum sleepers in order to further articulate the entrance.

Planter box?

Also, a planter-box like arrangement was constructed at the Southern side of the front elevation. Future plans include rock + Cycad palm features. The planter box was promptly dusted and stained to achieve a continuous 'merbau' look, if you like.

Next, the sleepers were hosed down with water to clean away the muddy stain left from the day's work. Finally D spread the mulch evenly across the exposed areas.

The result

In due time, we have got something worth calling an entrance. D played with the use of different materials, contrasting elements that maintained an overall consistency and my personal favorite ...

From the main road

Levels! I find the idea of various platforms cum steps converging to the portico delighful and all the more interesting for what would have been a mundane front elevation. Levels, though, are quite the common treatment to front lawns in the neighbourhood but I bet we won't find a sleeper driveway anywhere near us anytime soon.

Levels

Now, all we need is some greenery ... Lavender perhaps?