14 Paver Patio Ideas to Consider for Your Own Backyard Retreat

For her clients' Washington, D.C. townhouse, designer Kate Abt created a backyard patio with different zones. The brick area speaks to the exterior brick facade of the home while the larger stone tiles offer a more contemporary look.

For subtle variation, create a patio using pavers in two different shapes with the same material. At a Florida home by designer Andrew Howard, the patio makes use of squares and rectangles. The pairing only becomes noticeable when you take a closer look.

To add intrigue to an outdoor bistro nook—like this one by interior design firm Arent&Pyke—consider brick pavers laid in a herringbone pattern. Liven up the space with greenery and comfy seating.

If you're after a manicured look, square stone pavers separated by grass (real or faux!) promote a clean, sleek atmosphere. Take this 1930s cottage by designer Javier Burkle as proof. It also features a white stone wall that adds brightness to the area.

Stone pavers with an irregular shape can easily boost the natural look of a patio. On this patio by Romanek Design Studio, the stone fireplace and flooring are paired with plenty of greenery to give it a lush, natural feel.

Large, spread-out pavers create a loose path to the patio of this North Carolina home by architect James Carter and designer Jane Hawkins Hoke. The furnishing is simple with Adirondack chairs and two larger planters filled with flowers.

Not only does a basketweave pattern with brick pavers offer decorative value, but it's easy to install. The popular patio style is a nice contrast against the black-and-white island in this outdoor kitchen designed by Studio Lifestyle.

For a smooth and textured design, employ pavers and pebbles set in concrete. Get crafty with the design, as designers Leigh Anne Muse and Lili O'Brien did here. Climbing vines and exposed beams make this as an enchanting setting for relaxing and chatting.

Yes, you can certainly mix pavers in more than two shapes. Case in point: The patio of this Malibu ranch by designers Todd Nickey and Amy Kehoe that uses small and large rectangles and squares to form the outdoor living room floor. A large tree with big branches helps shade the space.

A brick patio with a stone border creates a distinct dining zone in this backyard. To further anchor the dining area, landscape architect Edmund Hollander added six plane trees around the patio that provide shade during the day and shine with string lights at night.

Stone pavers and gravel can be used to form a path in a narrow space—as seen at this Hamptons home by architect Pamela Pospisil—or the concept can be translated to a bigger patio design. Just avoid placing furniture that you'll have to move frequently, like a dining set, on gravel.

On the upper-level patio of a California home by designer Mark D. Sikes, square pavers offer a cohesive look that's a bit more detailed than a smooth concrete slab.

This tile patio by design firm Carrier and Company proves a floor made of a light-colored material and surrounding white walls can instantly make any space feel bright and airy. Why not do the same for your patio?

Opt for a clean look with cut stone rectangles in the same size and shape. For the party plaza of a Texas home, designer Linda Hayslett the patio style lays the foundation for an outdoor kitchen, dining room, game section, and lounge area.