Block paving ideas have grown in popularity recently and it’s easy to see why. There are plenty of benefits if you choose block paving, from both an aesthetic and functional perspective. It’s often used for driveways but there are so many other options to consider, too.
Visually-appealing block paving will add a sleek finish to your exterior. And choosing an interesting design with different colored blocks or creating patterns when laying them out can help to create a unique and attractive look for driveway, path, or PatioConstruction.
Block paving is easy to look after, too. All it needs to stay looking good is an occasional clean with soap and water. It’s durable and hard-wearing, and another plus point is that individual blocks can be eased out and replaced if they become worn or damaged, so you can keep everything looking smart. If you’re planning a new landscaping look for your plot, it’s definitely worth considering this material.
10 stylish block paving ideas to recreate in your garden
‘Block paving is a really versatile product which can be used at both the front and rear of your property,’ says Lee Dunderdale, Product Manager at Bradstone. ‘I also recommend using block paving as an edging idea to offer a simple but effective design statement that will add a sense of shape and style to your garden design and keep everything looking neat and tidy.’
Whatever look you’re going for, and whether it’s for a front yard, backyard, or edging design detail, we’ve got all the paving ideas you’ll need, from modern styles to more traditional designs. Here’s our edit of block paving ideas for you to browse and factor into your plans.
Choose block paving for driveways
‘Traditionally, block paving is more commonly used for driveways,’ says Bradstone’s Lee Dunderdale. ‘Whether you’re seeking charm and character or want to master a modern look, block pavers are available in a wide variety of colors and styles to suit any property and offer that much-desired curb appeal.’
Driveways also see large amounts of wear from cars and pedestrians. ‘Block paving not only offers a stylish option, but an extremely practical and durable solution. As long as it’s maintained well, it will stand the test of time,’ adds Lee. Don’t forget to enhance it at night, too, with some clever driveway lighting ideas to show it off.
Block paving like the design pictured can also be used to create a natural stone courtyard effect in a backyard setting.
Design a path with block paving
Block paving doesn’t need to be limited to driveways. With the endless design possibilities and durability offered by these pavers, they’re a good choice for the back garden too, especially for a garden path.
Weathered block pavers instantly bring warmth, texture, and a more rustic touch to any garden. They can be laid in a pattern of your choice, either in a simple design or a more ornamental herringbone or basketweave effect.
Adding an organic curved path to your landscaping ideas works well to create a sense of calm, harmony, and flow, especially if relaxed planting is added to the mix. If an idea like this is done well, it will add another layer of interest to your design.
Add a modern twist to classic block paving
It’s easy to create your own unique finish with block paving by mixing different block blends, sizes, and colors to customize your design and produce your very own take. You can also work in interesting edging design details to complete the look.
‘Block paving has more pros than cons,’ says Anna Hampshire from Marshalls. ‘It’s durable, long-lasting, and available in a wide range of finishes and colors, which enables you to get creative with the layout of your block paved surfaces.
‘Kiln-dried sand is the best sand for block paving joints, and we’d recommend an aggregate sub-base and not to lay on soil. To keep block paving looking pristine, be sure to follow a regular cleaning routine.’
Take a look at how to clean a driveway so you can keep the entrance to your home spruced up. Then you’ll have all the info you need right from the get-go once your new design is installed.
Use block paving for patio designs
Block paving is a staple of outdoor design, according to the experts at Infinite Paving. ‘When it comes to paver patterns and ideas, different layouts and patterns create very different visual effects, whether it’s square slabs arranged in a stretcher bond or rectangular slabs arranged in a herringbone pattern,’ says Rowan Cripps.
Block Paving offer a great opportunity for taking your patio up a level and turning your outdoor space into a real design feature. Rowan highlights the fact that individual blocks are replaceable if they become damaged – which could come in handy if you love entertaining a crowd.
Enhance a cocooning space with block paving
Everyone loves a quiet place to sit – somewhere you can feel more connected with nature as part of your sensory garden ideas. The sensory experience in this setup includes a combination of interesting textures, like these chunky block pavers.
A curved, wooden bench adds a pleasing contrast, while green foliage softens the scene.