Block paving is a staple of outdoor design. In addition to being cost-effective and environmentally friendly, paving is also extremely versatile and charming.

 

When it comes to paving patterns and ideas, different layout patterns create very different visual effects in your garden, whether it's square slabs arranged in a stretcher bond or rectangular slabs arranged in a herringbone pattern. With their stylish appearance, block paved patterns have become more popular in recent years as opposed to tarmac and poured concrete.

 

However, due to the fact that there are a plethora of designs to choose from, including different colours, styles and sizes, it can be extremely overwhelming when it comes to picking a style you like for your own garden. That’s why at Infinite Paving, we suggest taking your time to decide what would look best in your space. 

 

To help with this, we’ve rounded up some examples of our favourite types of block paving patterns including stretcher bond, basket weave and herringbone to name a few. 

Alternatively, if you are just at the beginning of your landscaping journey, then why not take a look at our guide to creating the perfect patio with 7 top tips to consider. 

Paving Slab Laying Patterns & Ideas 

Block paving patterns are pivotal in the architectural design of your home, and more often than not, they are one of the first things visitors will see when visiting your property. However, your choice of paving slab isn’t just about great looks; it’s also about function. 

 

Therefore, both of these elements must be considered when choosing the right pattern for you. So, whether you opt for Stretcher Bond, Basket Weave, Herringbone, Random Course or even Stack Bond paving patterns, some research must be done into all five to ensure you choose the right for your home. 

Read More: Limestone Vs Sandstone - Which is better for me?

 

Stretcher Bond Paving Patterns

Stretcher bond, also known as running bond or half bond is a classic paving design that is perhaps the most widely used paving pattern. The aesthetic of a stretcher bond paving pattern is a clean, uniform pattern that is easy to achieve. It most resembles the brickwork of a house. 

 

Although this paving pattern is somewhat of a basic design, its popularity is in demand for many homeowners all across the UK and Ireland. The main reasoning for this is due to the fact that the simple design takes less time for a contractor to lay in comparison to a more complex pattern, making it a more affordable option for those looking for a cost-friendly alternative.

 

And finally, another great reason to choose a stretcher bond paving pattern is down to the fact that it is very eco-friendly, as it requires minimum cutting and leaves close to zero waste behind.

 

Basket Weave Paving Patterns

Basket weave is perhaps the most popular alternative to the traditional straight block paving pattern. Named ‘basket weave’ simply because of how it resembles the appearance of a basket’s weave, the style features interlacing blocks that produce a visual style that appears like the slabs are weaving under and over each other – similar to the way a crafter would weave a basket.

 

Although it is a simplistic design, there are various ways to make the pattern unique, including using different sized tiles and angling the design. The basket weave paving pattern is a particularly effective choice when dealing with a long stretch of straight path or driveway, as the weave can be admired when standing at either end of the path.

 

For those willing to get creative, it is also possible to mix different colours into the design to create some eye-catching effects on the weave. Tiles such as our Grey Kandla Indian Sandstone or Black Kota Limestone work well for adding colour. The only negative to be aware of when considering basket weave as a paving pattern is that in areas used frequently by cars, the blocks can become displaced by the wheels over time. 

 

If you are enjoying this blog, why not take a look at our 5 exciting ways to use natural stone for your patio.

 

Herringbone Paving Patterns

Named for its likeness to the bones of a fish, herringbone paving can be laid in two different block paving patterns: at 90-degree or 45-degree angles.

 

90-degree herringbone paving is installed through the use of a straight-edged timber rail, making it an incredibly easy pattern to lay. In comparison, 45-degree herringbone is a much more difficult technique to achieve. Unlike the 90-degree variant, the 45-degree herringbone paving pattern uses up an entire block when it’s put down, requiring a lot more precision and expertise from the person placing the blocks.

 

However, both of these patterns are very popular for driveways, as the interlocking design means it can handle a substantial weight and won’t become displaced when vehicles brake or turn on them.

Random Course Paving Patterns

A random course block paving pattern is an excellent alternative if you really want your paving to stand out. Using different sizes, styles and colours of paving blocks, random course paving sticks to no set design. Instead, it is a unique assortment of blocks put together in an appealing and individual fashion.

 

To create this design, you could pick and choose your favourite tiles, or opt for paving that naturally comes in different colours and sizes. Camel Dust Indian Sandstone paving, for example, has different shades of grey, orange and pink, creating a complementing but varying design.

 

Not only this, but random course paving patterns are extremely delightful as they do NOT provide any extended straight lines to draw the eye in one direction or another. Instead, Random layouts force the eye to look at all the paving, and so come to admire it for what it is.

 

Read More: How to clean Indian Sandstone in 8 steps

 

Stack Bond Paving Patterns

 

Stack Bond paving patterns are one of the most simplest of the lot. The stacked bond looks like a spreadsheet document, with horizontally-placed rows one on top of the next with no staggered joints.

In addition to this, the Stack Bond format is one of the most versatile patterns as it is suitable for a number of different materials including Indian Sandsone and Indian Limestone. 

Furthermore, the Stack Bond format has the strength to withstand more foot traffic than other patterns due to its stronger bond, which means it is ideal for walkways. Finally, due to the fact that it can be laid at a 45-degree angle, the Stack Bond pattern can create a more interesting look and feel in your space.

If you’ve enjoyed this blog, why not take a look at our guide to laying stepping stones in gravel in 8 simple steps. 

 

Infinite Paving prides itself in supplying the widest audience by providing the best prices on the highest quality natural and porcelain stone paving, from Indian Sandstone, Paving slabs and Indian limestone paving to Brazilian slate paving. 

This can range from a more traditional style with the natural stone paving slabs split down the seam leaving a naturally riven paving surface and ageing techniques to artificially weather the stone, to a more contemporary style with sharp clean angles and smooth surfaces that will add an elegantly chic look to your space.

Browse through our vast paving range and order your products directly online to be delivered at your curbside within a week.