The Driveway Material That Brings A Touch Of Coastal Aesthetic To Your Home

If you're on the hunt for materials to use on your driveway that go beyond concrete, you probably have some practical considerations in mind. A material that's durable is a must, of course, and you need something that drains easily and resists the growth of pesky weeds. But you certainly also want to keep aesthetics in mind and choose a material that's attractive and with a bit of personality. A somewhat unexpected substance can check all of these boxes: crushed seashells. Not only are crushed shell driveways porous enough to allow proper drainage yet compact enough to create a firm driveway surface, but they're also very environmentally friendly, providing rich nutrients to the soil as they break down while making it tough for weeds to prosper. And perhaps the biggest asset of all: a crushed shell driveway is a great way to achieve a coastal chic aesthetic without going overboard.

Shells have been used as a material for coastal paths and driveways for centuries, with early European settlers in North America utilizing them for roads as well as fertilizers; and today, you'll still find crushed shell driveways in coastal areas all over the U.S. It's a quintessential New England driveway material that's in plentiful supply, thanks to the region's robust seafood industry. Plus, it's beautiful yet sturdy enough to withstand harsh Northeastern winters by the sea — even if it does make snow removal tricky. It's also a popular choice in the South as a beautiful yet practical driveway choice. So if you're craving a functional design touch that brings beach vibes and a classic nautical look to your home, a crushed shell driveway can make an excellent choice.

In addition to being functional, crushed shell driveways also bring the unique qualities of the seascape to your landscape; no two tiny shells are completely identical, so this nautical driveway look has a rustic natural beauty and charm. Oyster, clam, and scallop shells are among the most popular choices for crushed shell driveway materials. Oysters tend to increase in stability as they break down into a compact material, and while clamshells also become compact, they tend to break down faster than oyster shells. What's available to you will probably depend on which type of shell is most plentiful near where you live. While the shells can come in a range of colors, ultimately, they all tend to bleach white from the sun, so you'll get a pearly sand-like look.

One coastal vibe characteristic that you probably don't want on your driveway is the smell of decaying shellfish, but don't worry — if you buy from a commercial vendor, the materials for your crushed shell driveway are treated and thoroughly washed to remove any sea smells. If you do initially happen to get a slight whiff of anything fishy from the material, that odor tends to quickly dissipate. Any lingering aromas will likely smell more like the seaside than something foul, so breathe deeply and relish the coastal ambience, even if you don't live next to the sea.