USING PATIO PAVER PATTERNS IN AN OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE
Creating a functional outdoor living space in your home near San Jose doesn’t have to be boring! Today, you have so many great choices when it comes to patio pavers. They are available in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, colors, textures, and materials. Whether you choose natural stone pavers in a range of species, permeable or impermeable concrete paving stones, with a little creativity you’ll have an endless variety of options for creating your perfect outdoor space.
When you’re designing your outdoor living space, you have a number of options to consider when it comes to laying your patio paver patterns. From modular patterns to more traditional patterns, your choices will vary depending on the style and shape of pavers you choose, the function for your outdoor space, and even the style of your home.
Here are some of the most popular patio paver pattern choices among Bay area homeowners and hardscape designers.
TRADITIONAL PAVER PATTERNS
If your taste runs to the traditional, you can’t go wrong with rectangular and cobble style pavers laid in one of these popular traditional patterns. These patterns are a great place to start if you have a smaller space that may be overwhelmed by larger style pavers.
RUNNING BOND
The running bond pattern is one of the more simple patterns you can choose, but the result is a classic look that is always in style. In the running bond pattern, pavers are laid in rows all running in the same direction. The classic running bond is monochromatic, using patio pavers with little color variation, however, if you’re looking for a more creative take, try experimenting with color tone variations, borders, and switching pattern direction.
HERRINGBONE
In a herringbone pattern, pavers are laid in alternate directions creating a “V” or zig-zag shape. This pattern can be laid at either a 45 or 90-degree angle and is often used for medium to large-sized areas. The pattern offers a strong visual effect and adds character to any outdoor space. This pattern is known for its strength and durability and is perfect for areas that receive heavy traffic. It’s a great choice for driveways, patios, and walkways. To add some extra pop, consider adding a contrasting border along the patio edges.
BASKET WEAVE
This is a true traditional pattern originating from the old English landscape design era. It can bring a real vintage look to your outdoor space. In this pattern, pavers alternate between vertical and horizontal pairs. The paired pavers create rows and columns that catch the eye. Get creative and add contrasting or complementary colors. If you’re looking for a historic or vintage look, basketweave is an ideal choice, however, it is becoming a bit less common. It’s also a very durable pattern and is perfect for almost any location.
EUROPEAN FAN PATTERN
If you’ve ever been to Europe, then you’ve seen this pattern. It originated on the Continent and can be found everywhere throughout Western Europe. This pattern, along with the circular pattern is the most challenging to lay. The best approach is to purchase a pre-made kit that is available through several manufacturers. It’s worth the extra effort as it is one of the most beautiful patterns around.
MODULAR SHAPES AND PATIO PAVER PATTERNS
These types of patterns feature a variety of square and rectangular sizes and can be laid in multiple patterns that are visually dynamic and less repetitive. Modular shapes and patterns are more “modern” looking and create a contemporary look that works especially well for large patios.
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Patterns like basket weave can be adapted to create modular patterns by alternating the color tones you use or laying the pattern in a different direction to create intricate modular designs.
ASYMMETRICAL AND RANDOM PATTERNS
Asymmetrically shaped patio pavers create a more natural look and often incorporate false joints that create the illusion of multiple shapes randomly laid. Multi-shaped cobble-style pavers can also be laid in a multi-piece pattern emulating a random look as opposed to a more traditional style pattern.
PATIO PAVER BORDERS
Adding a border can add a new dimension to a patio paver pattern. You have a wide variety of styles and options when choosing to add a border. Your options range from using the same paver set at a different angle, to choosing a contrasting shape, color, or style of paver. Once you’ve selected the border paver, you have a number of pattern options as well including:
- Soldier Course – rectangular pavers laid in a row, side by side.
- Sailor Course – rectangular pavers laid lengthwise in one or more rows.
- Inlaid Patio Borders – Laying a contrasting patio border inside the paver field as opposed to on the outside edge.
When choosing your paver patterns, be aware that they can dramatically impact the look and feel of your outdoor space. For example, simple geometric patterns work best for a modern garden, random or irregular patterns work perfectly in a Mediterranean or Tuscan style landscape, while curved patterns look amazing around a water feature or fire pit.
When selecting paver patterns and designs, consider your existing landscape and the effect you’re looking to create. For example, if you want to give the impression of a bigger space, select large smooth pavers and go with a simple straight-line design pattern. Smaller pavers are perfect for creating beautiful designs and work particularly well in larger open yards, but in a small space, they tend to create a busy surface that can make your space feel even smaller!
If you have questions or are unsure where to start when planning your patio design, if you live in the greater San Francisco Bay area, give the experts at Bayside Pavers a call at (925) 318-5754. We’re always happy to answer your questions. Call and schedule a free consultation on your project.
If you live in the San Francisco Bay area, visit one of two locations. For East Bay and South Bay homeowners stop by our Concord, CA at 2455 Bates Ave, Ste K. North Bay area homeowners, visit our Santa Rosa, CA location at 1619 4th Street Ste 12.
