Project Overview
Located within a private coastal residence in Padstow, this project involved the installation of an exposed aggregate concrete driveway designed to integrate with the surrounding landscape while providing a durable, high-performance surface.
The specification focused on achieving a natural, stone-led finish using locally sourced materials, ensuring the driveway aligned with the regional character of the Cornish setting while delivering long-term performance under vehicle use.
The Brief
The brief required a robust external surface with a finish aligned to the coastal environment and architectural setting.
Key requirements included:
Exposed aggregate driveway installation
Use of locally sourced granite aggregate
A warm-toned base using Stone Buff integral colour
Consistent aggregate exposure across the full surface
A slip-resistant finish suitable for vehicle and pedestrian use
Integration of a defined entrance threshold
Material selection and finish consistency were central to the overall scheme.
The Solution
We installed an exposed aggregate concrete surface using a Stone Buff integral colour mix, seeded with locally sourced granite aggregate supplied from the batching plant.
The material specification was selected to reflect the natural tones of the surrounding landscape, ensuring the driveway sat comfortably within its coastal context.
Granite setts were introduced at the entrance to form a defined threshold, creating a clear transition into the property while adding texture and visual structure to the overall layout.
Achieving a consistent exposed aggregate finish required precise control throughout the installation process.
Key considerations included:
Managing uniform aggregate distribution across the full pour
Controlling timing of surface exposure to achieve consistent reveal
Maintaining colour consistency across the Stone Buff mix
Integration of granite sett detailing at the entrance
Surface finishing to ensure slip resistance under vehicle use
Coordination of pours to avoid visible transitions
Each stage was executed to ensure a balanced and uniform finish.
Technical Considerations
Each stage was carefully planned and executed to ensure the final surface met both the aesthetic vision and the practical demands of the home.
The Result
The completed driveway provides a durable, slip-resistant surface designed for long-term use while maintaining a consistent and natural appearance.
The exposed granite aggregate introduces texture and visual depth, reinforcing the connection to the local material palette. The addition of granite setts defines the entrance, creating a clear and structured point of arrival.
The project demonstrates the application of exposed aggregate concrete within residential settings, where material selection and finish control are key to achieving both performance and visual integration.
Project Gallery
