Creating kerb appeal is about more than simply making the front of a property look tidy – it’s about designing an entrance that feels considered, welcoming and in keeping with the character of the home.
For this project in North Down, the brief was to refresh a tired set of external steps and create a standout entrance that would instantly improve the look of the property. At the same time, it was important that the finished design felt sympathetic to the period style of the building, rather than looking too modern or out of place.
By combining Sinai Egyptian limestone setts with traditional old Belfast brick, we were able to create a timeless finish that adds real visual impact while still sitting naturally within the property’s original aesthetic.
Project Overview
The main aim of this landscaping project was to transform the entrance steps and surrounding approach into something more attractive, durable and in keeping with the home.
The existing steps needed a fresh new look that would enhance the front of the property and deliver strong kerb appeal. Rather than choosing a plain or overly contemporary material, we selected Sinai Egyptian limestone setts, laid in a classic herringbone format. This added texture, detail and a premium finish to the entrance area.
To complement the limestone and tie the work back to the period character of the property, old Belfast brick was used for the risers and the face of the steps. This created a beautiful contrast between the natural stone and brickwork, giving the finished steps a traditional, established feel.
The result is a front entrance that feels both practical and elegant – a strong upgrade to the property’s exterior while maintaining the charm and character of the building.
Key Features
- Sinai Egyptian Limestone Setts – Sinai Egyptian limestone was chosen for its warm, natural tones and high-quality finish. The setts create a premium look that works beautifully on entranceways, pathways, patios and feature areas. For this project, the limestone brought softness and character to the steps, helping the new entrance feel stylish without looking too harsh or overly modern.
- Herringbone Laying Pattern – The setts were laid in a herringbone format, adding movement, detail and traditional charm to the design. This pattern works especially well for period-style properties because it feels classic and structured, while also creating a strong visual feature. It helped turn the steps from a purely practical area into a real focal point at the front of the home.
- Old Belfast Brick Risers – To ensure the finished design stayed in keeping with the period aesthetic of the property, old Belfast brick was used for the risers and face of the steps. The brick adds warmth, texture and heritage character, helping the new steps blend naturally with the property rather than feeling like a modern add-on.
This project is a great example of how the right material choices can completely transform an outdoor space.
For homeowners in North Down, Bangor, Holywood, Newtownards and the surrounding areas, this type of landscaping project is a brilliant way to refresh a property’s exterior and create a lasting first impression.
Mooneys Landscape and Design 