Having a circle driveway in front of your home can provide a stately and elegant look while also allowing easy access for vehicles to enter and exit your property. The center of a circle driveway provides an ideal opportunity to showcase decorative landscaping or other eye-catching features. When designing your circle driveway, carefully consider what you want to place in the middle to complement your home’s architecture and landscape.
Fountain
One popular option for the centerpiece of a circular driveway is a fountain. The soothing sound of cascading water and elegant shape of a fountain can enhance the beauty of your home’s exterior. Fountains come in a variety of styles, ranging from simple tiered designs to more ornate statuesque fountains. Choosing a fountain in a material like stone or metal that matches elements on your home can give your driveway arrangement a cohesive, upscale feel.
When installing a fountain in your driveway, there are some important factors to consider:
- Scale – Make sure the fountain is large enough to be visible and make an impact but not so large that it overwhelms the space.
- Bowl size – The basin needs to be large enough to accommodate the fountain pump and hold sufficient water.
- Material – Metal or stone fountains will be most durable in an outdoor driveway setting.
- Plumbing – A water source and drainage will need to be installed for operation and maintenance.
- Electricity – Nearby access to an electrical source is needed to run the fountain pump.
- Weight – Heavier fountains are less likely to tip over from wind or other elements.
- Location – Situate the fountain in the exact center for best effect.
Properly installed, a fountain can create an elegant focal point and soothing ambiance for your circular driveway design.
Statue
Statues are another classic accent often seen in the center of circular driveways. From classical Greek and Roman figures to angels, animals, and modern art sculptures, a statuesque centerpiece can lend character and charm to your home’s entry. Match the style of the statue to your home’s architectural details. For example, a statue with neoclassical elements would pair nicely with a columned facade. Or, opt for an abstract contemporary statue for a modern home.
Factors to weigh when selecting a statue for your driveway include:
- Scale – Make sure the statue is large enough to make an impact but not dwarf the driveway space.
- Material – Durable materials like bronze, stone, and reinforced concrete will withstand the elements best.
- Weight – Heavy pieces will be less prone to shifting or tipping over time.
- Placement – Situate the statue in the precise center of the driveway for balance.
- Mounting – Ensure the statue is properly secured on a stable base.
- Theme – Choose a statue style that complements your home.
With a gorgeous statue stationed front and center, your circular driveway will make an unforgettable first impression.
Landscaping
If you prefer greenery as your centerpiece, consider an artful arrangement of plants. Flowers, shrubs, trees and other lush landscaping elements can add natural elegance to your driveway. When planning your landscaping, opt for hardy, low-maintenance varieties that can withstand the dirt and foot traffic common in driveway areas.
Some landscaping options that make great centerpieces include:
- Flower garden – A meticulously designed floral showpiece.
- Topiary – Shaped trees, shrubs or bushes.
- Water feature – A small pond or bubbling birdbath.
- Rock garden – Carefully arranged rocks and succulents.
- Container plants – Large pots filled with colorful blooming flowers.
Aim for lush, full plantings to give your driveway centerpiece a polished, professional look. Keep scale in mind so that your plants and arrangements can be readily viewed and enjoyed from the driveway. Well-executed landscaping is an affordable way to boost your home’s curb appeal.
Fire feature
Integrating flickering flames into your driveway’s landscape can create a warm, welcoming ambiance for your home. Driveway fire features come in many forms, including classic fire pits, modern fire bowls, and sleek linear fireplaces. Built-in fire features complement a range of home architecture styles when thoughtfully designed.
Key considerations for driveway fire features:
- Safety – Ensure proper clearance from vehicles and structures, flame height control, stable bases, etc.
- Size – Scale the fire feature appropriately for the driveway space.
- Fuel source – Choose gas for convenience or wood burning for aroma.
- Shape – Select a shape that fits with your landscape plan.
- Finish – Materials like stone and metal complement outdoor spaces.
- Placement – Situate in the middle of the driveway for focal impact.
- Permits – Check with your city for any required permits or codes.
The warm glow of a fire feature can make your driveway both eye-catching and inviting after dark. Just be sure to keep safety considerations in mind.
Gazebo
For a driveway centerpiece that provides form and function, consider installing a gazebo. A small open-sided structure like a gazebo creates an elegant focal point while also offering shade and shelter. The space inside a gazebo allows for seating areas, hot tubs, and other amenities to boost your driveway’s utility.
Key gazebo considerations:
- Size – Appropriately scale the gazebo for your driveway and activities.
- Materials – Durability is key; metal, finished wood and PVC resist weather.
- Style – Choose gazebo architecture consistent with your home.
- Permits – Check on building codes for backyard structures.
- Lighting – Install lights for evening ambiance.
- Accessories – Add seating, plantings and other decorative touches.
Centering a gazebo in your driveway creates an elegant focal point and instant outdoor living space for gatherings and events.
| Centerpiece Option | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Fountain | Scale, bowl size, material, plumbing, electricity, weight, location |
| Statue | Scale, material, weight, placement, mounting, theme |
| Landscaping | Hardy varieties, scale, professional design |
| Fire Feature | Safety, size, fuel, shape, finish, permits |
| Gazebo | Size, materials, style, permits, lighting, accessories |
Conclusion
The center of a circular driveway presents the perfect opportunity to add visual interest, functionality, or both to your home’s entryway. Classic choices like fountains, statues and lush landscaping provide elegance and eye-catching beauty. For added utility, fire features or a gazebo can transform your driveway into an outdoor living oasis. Carefully consider scale, materials, placement and other factors to select a centerpiece option that reflects your personal style and complements your architecture. With an uplifting fountain, regal statue, abundant garden or other artistic center installation, your circular driveway can make a grand entrance statement.