A new driveway can be a costly affair, with the price of slabs and surfacing often spiralling into four figures. However, design expert Jordana Ashkenazi is on hand to share her insights on creating an elegant driveway without overspending.

The $30 million mistake:Artificial plants that scream 'Airbnb entrance'

Artificial plants have become a staple for middle-class homeowners up and down the country, but Jordana warns that they can actually 'end up feeling more Airbnb entrance than warm family home'. 'Fake topiary can quickly tip into looking a bit tacky, showroom-like and, at worst, verge on Poundland garden centre rather than elegant luxury,' she explained.

According to Jordana, the issue with fake greenery is that it never changes with the seasons and often looks overly perfect against real brick and natural surroundings. 'Personally, I think front entrance planting should ideally be real. Even simple real olive trees, seasonal planting or softer greenery instantly brings more warmth, authenticity and character to a home.'

Resin driveways: A marriage between natural aggregate and polyurethane resin

Resin driveways with giant motifs and initials have become popular, but what exactly is a resin driveway? It's a marriage between natural aggregate - tiny pebbles, essentially - with polyurethane resin. It's expensive, functional and the kids can skateboard on it. Characterful? Less so.

For those wanting to really make their mark, there is even the option to imprint your family's initials or, even worse, a family symbol - as seen by Tyson Fury with his 'Gypsy King' resin makeover. For Jordana, there is zero question. 'A resin driveway screams loud luxury and trying too hard to impress.'

Natural stone and grael driveways: A timeless option that blends ultimate kerb appeal with long-term value

Natural stone and gravel driveways represent a timeless option, blending ultimate kerb appeal with long-term value, making them a premium choice for middle-class homeowners hoping to make a good first impression. for Jordana, this 'timeless' driveway option seeks to work 'with nature, rather than against it'. 'There's something understated, elegant and very country-house about them,' she said.

Who is the unnamed buyer?

The Daily Mail reported that Jordana Ashkenazi, Design Director and Founder of Element One House, shared her insights on creating an elegant driveway without overspending. however, the article does not reveal the identity of the unnamed buyer who commissioned the driveway makeover.