Paving is a popular backyard landscape enhancement that’s perfect for sprucing up your outdoor space. Outdoor floors must have certain built-in features, such as resistance to high temperatures and other inclement weather.
Don’t forget to factor in the color of the floor. Dark colors absorb heat and end up overheating. On the other hand, light colors reflect too much light, making dirt easily noticeable. So, consider going for neutral or intermediate colors.
Depending on the material you use, consider the effort and cost needed for maintenance and the areas’ traffic. Some of the paving materials you can use include wood, porcelain, cement, micro cement, natural stone, and clay. Below are some paving designs for your outdoor space.
1. Combine Different Shapes And Sizes
Paving doesn’t always have to be the usual square and rectangular slabs. You can make it more exciting by combining different shapes in varying sizes. For example, when using stones, you can go for circular paving and add square stones to a square paved area with curved details. If you want to make a statement with your paving design, visit Amber or any other store for various options.
2. Experiment With Patterns
A patio’s finished look depends on the paving slabs you use and the pattern you lay them in. focusing on the laying pattern can take your paved area from an everyday look to an outstanding, cutting-edge design. Consider laying your rectangular, square, and plank-shaped slabs in stretcher bond patterns as an alternative to a traditional grid. You may also apply the plank-shaped slabs in a stylish herringbone pattern that depicts interior design trends.
If you want a rustic look with natural textures and colors, go for a mixed paving pack. It comes with stones in three different shapes and a laying guide to help you create an informal, relaxed paving pattern.
3. Select Classic Cobbles
A cobbled surface would be an excellent choice to create a traditional or country-style pavement as it compliments colorful plants and rustic textures. Carpet stones are a good choice for an authentic-like surface since you can lay dozens of them in one easy sheet. You can add grout in a neutral color to get the illusion of cobbles laid one by one. If you want a soft shape to the edge instead of a crisp line, you can have carpet stone sheets cut to achieve that shape. You can also fit them around trees and shrubs to make a statement.
4. Consider Plants For Added Texture
Plants are an excellent way to add texture and interest to your paved space. Consider leaving gaps between paving slabs to add plants. You may add low-growing herbs like thyme for ground coverage and a fantastic scent, grass for bold splashes of green, or tall plants for interest. Choose plants that are ideal for thin soil as they can thrive with less maintenance. The regular spacing of planting gaps will give you a contemporary look. For a rustic paving finishing, leave spaces scattered randomly and plant a mixture of fragrant herbs and taller grass.
5. Add Pebbles, Gravel, And Small Stones
Pebbles, gravel, and small stones are known as decorative aggregates. They add color, texture, and interest to paving designs. They can be used as borders in place of grout lines or in spaces left between paving slabs so they can make a bold statement or soften the edges. Smooth pebbles can be used as narrow borders in contemporary porcelain paving. Small pieces of gravel in sandy colors can be used to complement natural sandstone paving. They can also be used to border paved areas between lawns.
6. Add A Water Feature
Adding a water feature in a paved area not only adds to your home’s value but also allows you to enjoy the sound of moving water as you relax. To create a space for moving water, choose a small fountain and fill it with pebbles. You may also consider adding a pond into your patio design and edge with a low brick wall or stone to tie it with your paving. This creates space for water plants and improves aesthetics.
7. Consider Adding Stepping Stones
Using paving slabs as stepping stones can create a fun way to link different parts of your garden while encouraging exploration beyond your patio. It can also help you create access that blends well with an informal garden design and natural plants.
Upgrading your outdoor space boosts curb appeal, increases your home value, and guarantees a high return on investment. Consider trying the above designs the next time you have a paving project.
For more posts on how to manage your patios, check these out.
Decks and Patios and How to Care for Them
