Let’s face it—gravel often gets typecast as the supporting actor in your landscaping drama. But it’s time to give it the starring role it deserves. Mixing different types of gravel is the landscaping equivalent of remixing a classic song: the original is fine, but the right blend can totally change the vibe—and elevate your entire outdoor space from “meh” to “marvelous.”
At 9 Brothers Building Supply, we’re all about helping you unlock your inner landscape artist (Michelangelo had marble, you’ve got gravel). Whether you’re dreaming of a whimsical garden path or a show-stopping driveway, blending gravel colors and sizes adds personality, texture, and serious curb appeal.
Let’s break it down like a stone-cold design boss.
Why Mix It Up?
Blending different types of gravel does more than look pretty. It:
- Adds Depth & Dimension: Think of it like layering in fashion—contrasting sizes and colors create movement and interest.
- Defines Spaces Naturally: Use gravel blends to subtly separate areas—like driveways from walkways, or patios from garden beds—without breaking up your flow.
- Boosts Functionality: Smaller pebbles are great underfoot (hello, comfy walkways), while chunkier, angular stones lock into place for stability.
The Gravel All-Stars (a.k.a. Your Mixing Palette)
Here’s a peek at the rock stars we’ve got at 9 Brothers:
Bluestone Gravel – The Moody Muse
Cool, blue-gray, and effortlessly chic. This gravel brings serious “cool kid” energy to any design. Use it to add a contemporary, refined tone to your paths or accent larger pavers for a coastal or modern aesthetic.
Pea Gravel – The Smooth Operator
Rounded and beige like your favorite cozy sweater, pea gravel is all about comfort and subtle beauty. Its soft texture is great for pathways, patios, and play areas—and plays well with others.
Red Crushed Gravel – The Bold Rebel
Looking to add a pop of drama? Red crushed gravel delivers with earthy tones and angular flair. This is your go-to for a landscape design that isn’t afraid to stand out.
Gravel Mixing: 5 Nerdy-Cool Tips for Textural Bliss
1. Contrast Is King
Pair smooth with angular. Pea gravel softens red crushed gravel’s sharp edges. Bluestone’s cool hues mellow out warmer tones. It’s like pairing chocolate with chili—unexpected but chef’s kiss.
2. Use Color Zones
Create zones by color. Red gravel edging around a bluestone path? Yes, please. Or line a pea gravel driveway with red crushed gravel for a two-tone effect that pops.
3. Layer by Size
Use larger gravel as a base or border, then layer smaller stones on top. It helps with stability and looks like you totally know what you’re doing (because now you do!).
4. Fade It Out
Try an ombré gravel path. Start with one type of gravel, then gradually blend into another as you move through the space. Think fashion runway—but for your garden.
5. Frame Features
Highlight focal points—fire pits, fountains, pizza ovens (yum)—with contrasting gravel borders. Red crushed gravel around a pea gravel patio? Boom, instant focal point.
Pro-Tip: Don’t Go Full Chaos
A little planning goes a long way. Lay out sample patches to test combinations before you commit. Treat your landscape like a canvas—experiment, step back, squint thoughtfully, and nod like you’re a gravel whisperer.
Why Choose 9 Brothers for Your Gravel Mixology?
At 9 Brothers Building Supply, we don’t just hand you a shovel and wish you luck. We offer a full lineup of different types of gravel—from bold red crushed to smooth pea and stylish bluestone—so you can find your perfect match (or matches, plural).
Our Long Island locations are stocked, our team is stoked, and our expertise is rock-solid. Whether you’re creating a crisp modern driveway or a dreamy woodland path, we’ll help you mix it right.
Let’s Rock Your Landscape
Ready to mix and match your way to a next-level landscape? Visit us at 9 Brothers Building Supply in Long Island. We’ve got the bulk gravel, the creative ideas, and the team to make your design dreams a textured, colorful reality.
Come in, talk gravel, and leave with a plan (and maybe some dust on your boots—consider it a badge of honor).
