When you are considering various patio and walkway materials, it can be overwhelming because of the sheer variety of styles, colors, textures, and finishes available. In this article we’ll discuss seven patio pavers you will want to consider for a new hardscape design project in Harrisburg, PA.
Related: HOW A MASONRY SUPPLY CAN HELP SELECT THE PATIO PAVERS TO USE IN YOUR NEXT LANCASTER, PA, PROJECT
Paver Style
One of the first factors in your choice is the style of paver you want to use, and if your home is a mix of architectural styles (as many contemporary homes can be).
Many outdoor living projects can be classified according to the style of the home: traditional, rustic, or modern. These classifications are just a jumping-off point, though, since modern landscape design isn’t rigid in its approach, but often borrows design elements from various styles. For example, you might see classic brick pavers next to an ultra-modern home, or sleek, modern plank-style pavers next to a farmhouse-style home.
Depending on your personal style, you may wish to complement your home’s style, or contrast it. And if your home represents a mix of styles, then you could consider whether you want your outdoor living space to be “more” (more traditional, more rustic, or more modern) than the home, or “less.”
Either way, our friendly experts will help you choose the patio pavers that will best meet your needs and preferences. Here’s what to look for in these three style categories.
1. Traditional: Brick and Stone-Inspired Pavers
Pavers suited for traditional homes and landscapes often include the look of brick as well as smooth-textured pavers inspired by limestone or sandstone. These versatile materials can be used in both formal and informal landscapes.
To give a brick patio, walkway, or driveway extra character, you could mix three complementary colors randomly onsite.
Pavers with the look of limestone could be ideally suited for a sophisticated patio while sandstone-inspired pavers would be ideal for a warm and relaxed atmosphere. With these stone-inspired pavers, consider using large formats to give your space an expansive feel.
2. Rustic: Flagstone/Bluestone-Inspired Pavers
Rustic pavers typically feature more pronounced textures. A rustic design style embraces imperfection, and isn’t concerned with clean, straight lines. The patio, walkway, and driveway may be curved—but precisely shaped pavers give these spaces a more structured appearance.
Flagstone/bluestone-inspired pavers are a popular choice with a lot of visual interest. Look for blended colors that are as close to the real thing as possible, and consider purchasing pavers in two or three complementary shades to mix randomly onsite for a more realistic natural stone look.
3. Modern: Linear Plank Pavers, Large Format Pavers, and Hexagonal Pavers
There are three trends to look for in a modern hardscape design: linear plank pavers, large format pavers, and hexagonal pavers.
Large format pavers can give your outdoor living space a more expansive feel due to fewer joint lines. They can also be ideal for making small outdoor spaces feel larger.
Linear plank pavers offer a dynamic look reminiscent of the richness of a brick patio but in a more modern style. They can be laid at a 45-degree angle to the home, or oriented to broaden a narrow space or to make a very large patio feel more intimate.
A vibrant and fun look comes from hex pavers with their classic honeycomb shape. This look would pair well with a simple home, where there aren’t too many contrasting shapes and textures that would be overly busy. Some hex pavers are monochromatic while others are inspired by granite or other types of stone.
Related: WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN PICKING PAVERS AT OUR LANDSCAPE SUPPLY NEAR YORK, PA
Photo courtesy of Unilock
