Today’s commercial cobblestones differ markedly from those used centuries ago. Often rounded pebbles collected from riverbeds, these stones created a visually appealing yet extremely bumpy surface.
Today, cobblestones are usually fashioned from quarried granite or sandstone, and offer an Old World aesthetic appeal while making for a highly useable outdoor surface – perfect for car driveways, paths or simply an even and safe outdoor area for seating or barbeques.
Cobblestones add a visual interest to a driveway or path, in a way that a blander concrete or tarmac surface cannot. Cobbles also add a sense of exclusivity while supporting overall traditional/modern design aesthetics. In short, cobblestone arrangements can make an outdoor space look great.
Such small stones lend themselves to any number of patterns, but in traditional outdoor areas the herringbone and basket weave arrangements are particularly popular.
For more contemporary or minimalist outdoor spaces, more geometric patterns are often selected, frequently reflecting the modern architecture of the adjacent building.
Global Stone’s Sandstone Collection can be harnessed to great effect in both traditional and contemporary cobblestone layouts. For an even more hard-wearing – yet still visually alluring –cobble material, explore our Granite Collection. The available range of muted colour variations mean there is a suitable colour for every environment.
In most instances, consumers are simply looking for a practical yet attractive arrangement for their car driveway or path, but there are numerous more unusual ideas for those seeking to add uniqueness to such a space.
For those with the time and/or budget, circular pavers might be used to enliven a driveway, or make a feature of pathway endings and beginnings – great for longer, wider paths.
For those seeking to add a more rustic feel to their traditional paved area, moss can create a visually delightful look. Shaded, moist areas will best encourage moss to grow in this way, while soil acidification can further support this attractive plant’s colonisation. It is also possible to transplant from another area. Transplanted strips should not be too thin, as they can dry out quickly.
Cobblestone need not be used solely on their own. They can be successfully coupled with larger flagstones or pavers. A popular way to marry the two is to create cobblestone borders around paved areas.
The modern take on the cobblestone represents a truly versatile material that can be used in all manner of outdoor spaces, being both extremely practical and visually appealing.
