top of page
nickharasym

Mastering Driveway and Patio Design with Stones, Retaining Walls, and Deck Choices

Updated: Aug 28

Pavers are stones, often made from concrete or brick, designed to be used outdoors and are suitable for a variety of landscaping projects.  Known for their high durability and low maintenance, pavers come in many different shapes, sizes, and colors to suit any style.  It's no wonder hardscaping designs are so popular! 


Paver stones are beautiful, functional, and can increase the value of your home.  In this post, we're going to explore many different options, from driveways and patios to retaining walls and decks.  No matter your outdoor project, paver stones can make your dream a reality.  Get ready to wow your neighbors and guests; let's pave the way!


Stone Driveway

Using paving stones for your driveway creates a unique entrance for your home, adding curb appeal while meeting the functional needs required.  Some pavers are water-permeable, meaning they allow water to run off and pass through, reducing puddles and allowing water to naturally drain into the ground.  

Stone Driveway Patterns

Popular Patterns for Stone Driveways

  • Herringbone - The classic herringbone remains a favorite for driveways.

  • Basket Weave - The basket weave is a well-known pattern from the old English design era and brings a vintage look to your space.

  • Checkerboard - Alternating squares of different colors to create a checkerboard effect adds a playful, modern touch to a driveway.

  • Cobblestone - Made to mimic the appearance of traditional cobblestone streets, this pattern involves small pavers laid in a random yet cohesive design.  

  • Hexagon - Interlocking hexagonal-shaped pavers create a geometric and interesting pattern.


Patio Design

A stone patio is a great addition to any backyard.  An outdoor patio is the perfect oasis, providing a beautiful space for relaxing, entertaining, or dining.  Choose from a variety of brick sizes, patterns, colors, and textures: the possibilities are endless!  A well-designed stone patio is elegant and timeless, offering a seamless transition from the interior to the exterior of a home.  

Components of a Stone Patio

How can you use your outdoor patio? 


Let's take a look:

  • Fire Pit - Enjoying your outdoor patio with a fire pit is the perfect way to unwind at the end of the day.

  • Outdoor Dining - It doesn't get much better than enjoying a meal in the great outdoors!

  • Outdoor Kitchen - A stone patio creates the perfect foundation for your outdoor kitchen.  There are many options for an outdoor kitchen, from small to elaborate.  You could add a barbecue, pizza oven, sink, or fridge to your patio, among others.

  • Outdoor Living Room - Add some comfortable seating to your outdoor patio and you'll never want to leave! 

  • Garden - By using planters, pots, or raised beds, you can create a beautiful garden on your stone patio.


Retaining Walls

Retaining walls, or retention walls, are the perfect balance between style and function.  A retention wall is a structure that holds and retains soil behind it.  A retaining wall made from paver stones adds a sophisticated touch to your yard, adding both style and dimension.  

Retaining Walls Benefits

Advantages of Adding a Retaining Wall

  • Erosion Control - Retaining walls prevent soil runoff and erosion.  Heavy rain or melted snow can loosen and erode the soil or cause water runoff, which can create flooding or damage property.  A retention wall ensures your landscape remains intact.

  • Adds Structural Support - Retention walls are made to support and hold back hills or mounds, providing them with structural support and making them less prone to soil runoff or mudslides.  This is especially important if your yard contains slopes or uneven ground.  In most cases, a retaining wall is needed when the slope of the land exceeds a certain angle, usually around 4:1.

  • Prevents Sinkholes - Dangerous sinkholes can form when water piles beneath the surface, weakening it to the point of not being able to support the surface weight. Retaining walls helps prevent this from happening by preventing underground erosion and managing water runoff.  

  • Aesthetically Pleasing - Beyond functionality, retaining walls can be a stunning addition to your outdoor space.  A retention wall creates a beautiful tiered landscape that blends seamlessly with the rest of your property.  With unlimited options available, you're sure to find something to suit your style.


Deck Choices

Unlike a patio, a deck is typically elevated off the ground and attached to the exterior of your house.  No matter the size of your yard, a deck might be the perfect addition to create your perfect backyard oasis.  A deck can be used for lounging, dining, surrounding your pool, or entertaining guests.  Your new deck will probably be your favorite place in your backyard!

Decking Material Comparison

Deck Materials to be Used

A deck can be built from many different material options.  Let's take a look at a few:

  • Stone Pavers - You can use stone pavers or any hardscaping material to create a unique, beautiful deck.

  • Wood - Wood is the most popular choice for backyard decks.  Wood is natural, strong, and aesthetically pleasing.  It does require maintenance, including sanding, staining, and sealing.

  • Composite - Composite decking is a sustainable, durable alternative to wood.  Made to look like natural wood, composite decks are quickly growing in popularity.


The possibilities for stone pavers are virtually limitless.  From decks, patios, retaining walls, or driveways, pavers are the perfect material to build your dream outdoor space.  Call Neil and Nick's Landscaping for a free quote.  


48 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page