Paver Patios

Never Dull

Precast concrete pavers have without question the largest range of shapes and sizes available in a single material. The lovely curved steps are enhanced by a series of bands in the paving that accentuate the geometry of the space. These large light tone pavers are further emphasized by a pair of dark bands of brick like pavers set on edge that may disguise slot inlets to an underground trench drain. Fields beyond are composed of four different pavers, square and rectangular, buff tones and steel gray which stand out in striking contrast against the rigid step masonry. While so much variety in a limited space may seem overdone in concept, here in practice we learn that it is clearly not so.

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Wheelchair Smooth

This patio, clearly designed to be viewed from above is an exceptional example of modern subliminal design through the use of paving stone. The uniformity of manufactured precast pavers provides a very solid surface for the wheelchair bound resident because there are no mortar joints that can make traveling a jarring experience. Tightly set clean edges allow the beauty of individual units to appear separate for variation on the ground plain. The ability to blend the large gray square units in the main field with earth tone directional variation though to the cantilevered deck beyond provides a sense of division without barriers.

Dry Green

The arid climate and limited water supply of the far west drove development of truly believable artificial turf. Nowhere is the value of this innovation more appreciated than the ability to utilize contrasting bands within fields of simple square precast concrete pavers. Pavers more easily cut than stone make this diagonal application a fine opportunity to bring in artificial turf in a dynamic way, particularly at a site too shaded to allow real grass to grow. Perhaps more important is summer heats paving to such a high temperatures that virtually no living plant is able to survive, yet this artificial turf lends a beautiful lush look amidst the rustic Southwest feel of tumbled pavers.

Minimal Color

In the Rocky Mountains, the color palettes of paving are usually sedate earth tones that coordinate better with the drought resistant planting that's typical in this region. This designer choose a simple three block pattern in a neutral warm gray with bands of dark brown accents to suggest in a subliminal way how furniture is used within the space. In a project with this much hardscape, it's very easy to over-do it with masonry block color to potentially overwhelm the character of the space. Arcadia Design Group, Centennial, CO

Contrasting Colors

The rich green countryside of New York and its regional architecture provides opportunities for more powerful color in paving without the risk of a garish appearance. Here the blend of large warm tone pavers is set in a semi-herringbone pattern, one of the most traditional choices. It's made far more upscale by the maroon bands and pale green-gray accent that provides the same effect as an area rug indoors. This application uses color to define outdoor spaces just as we do interiors, with the color choice repeating on the wall and pilasters. Lehigh Lawn & Landscaping Poughkeepsie, NY

Multicolor Patterns

The most recent innovation in paver technology is the development of multicolored patterns that provide a great deal of variation in the surface. The importation of brighter natural stone units from Asia is also driving paver manufacturers to keep up color wise. Be careful when working with bold paver coloring as some believe this latest trend may ultimately date a project more than any other paver design choice.