Grass Pavers
Driveways aren't exactly known for their good looks: Concrete ones love oil stains, gravel can be impossible to keep smooth, and grassy lawns can quickly become muddy messes. But one material is pushing the whole concept forward: Permeable tile pavers, the next level up in parking design that incorporate a little of each, and so much more. It’s a drivable surface with stormwater drainage incorporated, and, best of all, grassy green good looks. Find out how they can drive up your home’s curb appeal and all the logistics you need to think through before calling your landscaper to install them.
Where to Use Them
Permeable pavers can guard against flood damage by allowing rainwater to infiltrate the ground. "Within driveways, we often use block pavers with a significant material thickness. The added thickness is essential for areas trafficked by cars and trucks. These blocks can be made of granite Belgian block cobbles or a prefabricated concrete aggregate block. Blocks are set on a gravel base, spaced evenly, and set with open joints that are then swept with a sand mixture to allow stormwater to percolate through," explains landscape designer Douglas Clark. Think about putting them wherever water tends to collect. HECKER GUTHRIE If you don't have a driveway but love the idea of a concrete-meets-greenery hybrid, beauty a space by the patio. This outdoor space by Melbourne, Australia–based Hecker Guthrie proves that grass pavers can do more than driveways. They also make great terraces and walkways.