Paver patio design

By incorporating the right colors, stone shapes, patterns and other interesting elements, contractors can create stellar hardscapes for their customers. Photo: Susan SchlengerA paver patio design is one of the most popular types of patios. This is due to the fact that they are relatively reasonably priced and come in a wide array of color sizes, textures and options.

As with anything else in the area of landscape design, a paver project can be mediocre or outstanding. So what makes a patio of landscaping pavers one that you remember?

The truth is, there isn’t any silver bullet to great patio design. There are many ideas that will help create that special project for your clients.

Choosing the Right Color
Choose a color that coordinates well with your customer’s home, since the patio will most likely be up against the house. Bring some sample pavers to your meeting, and bring quite a few of one color. Look at them up against the house and see which looks best.

Using contrasting colors and different sizes helps make your installation stand out.

Paver Shapes Matter
The geometric pattern of the pavers should blend well with any other surrounding patterns.

For example, if the house is brick, choose a shape or shapes that will be a nice contrast. Don’t duplicate the brick shape or it will be boring. I have found that using different shapes together provides interest and looks well with brick and wood siding.

Mixed grays seem to work well in many different landscapes. If you are doing a waterfall, it’s easy to blend the gray color with natural looking landscaping boulders.

Add a Border or Other Design
A border along a patio is called a soldier course. This helps to frame the patio just like in a picture. Sometimes a circle design can be added in an interesting location. Many pavers come with matching circle kits with sizes that can be adjusted to fit your particular installation.

Include Other Interesting Elements
Think beyond the traditional patio set-up. Consider adding a seatwall, which will provide lots of additional seating and look great, also. Or add a pond nearby or right up against the patio. Even a single fountain looks interesting. If the project budget allows it, add a pergola over part of the patio. As another option for shade, you can plant a tree in the patio with a circle cut out to allow for growth.

The author has a degree in landscape architecture from Rutgers University. She can be reached at schlenger@gie.net. To see more of her work, visit www.landscape-design-advice.com.