We’re long overdue with an update on our front walkway, but now that we’ve finally had some rain the grass is filling in between the slate stones we painstakingly arranged and dug into over a few weekends in May. (See our previous posts for more photos and a step-by-step slate-laying tutorial.) A few spots will thicken over the next month or so, but we figured you waited long enough for the big reveal—so here it is. First, a quick look back at where we started.
Here’s the original path we inherited with the house: a shaky, uneven tripping hazard made of wooden beams, loose slate, and overgrown monkey grass and leaves.
Once we removed the overgrown grasses on the right side and pulled up the old, rickety slate, the path looked bare and uneven—ready for a proper redo.
We widened the path and made sure the base was level, then tackled the backbreaking job of placing each slate piece by hand for a deliberate, clean look. Without a wet saw to trim edges, we pieced together the stones along the right side to achieve a neat border. Thankfully we had extra slate from our old patio to work with.
The process took a long time, but the result is worth it. The slate’s varied tones give the path an unexpectedly refined look—almost like bluestone—while still feeling natural and inviting.
After laying the slate, we dug each piece in so the stones wouldn’t wobble when guests approached the front door. That step took time too, but it made a big difference in stability and longevity.
Finally, we seeded the strips between the stones and hoped for rain. The summer heat and our sprinkler weren’t enough, but a few good storms did the trick—and now the grass is filling in beautifully.
We love the wider, more open approach to our front door. Removing the invasive monkey grass made the path feel less cluttered, and the traditional slate pairs well with our home’s classic exterior—red brick, black shutters, and a red door. The gentle curve and cottagey grass between the stones keep the design from feeling too formal, striking a nice balance between polished and relaxed. And thanks to the careful installation and solid base work, there isn’t a wobbly slab in sight—something even the FedEx driver will appreciate.