4 Popular Styles of Patio Pavers

The design and functionality of the patio area is easily enhanced with the right pavers. A gorgeous patio is easily achievable by laying the high-quality paving material that complements the local landscape. Here are four of the easy to install, elegant and durable patio materials:

Poured concrete

A low-budget option to give a tired or neglected patio a quick makeover comes from using poured concrete. It is relatively cheap to use and most DIY enthusiasts with basic skills should be able to complete this work. The finish of the poured concrete can vary drastically. A quick makeover can give the look of a gray, no-frills surface, while a skilled contractor laying the concrete can create a very textured and decorative stone surface. Poured concrete can also be given extra color during the mixing stage to give a more attractive appearance.

Bricks

A well laid brick patio is certain to provide a solid surface that can give countless years of surface in any climate condition, even areas that regularly experience frost. Brick is a very versatile material and comes in a variety of colors and shapes to ensure it matches the local surroundings. A brick patio is a further great choice for the skilled do-it-yourself enthusiast. This material helps to enhance the appearance of the outside space at minimal cost. It is practical for patios, garden borders, driveways, walkways, and terraces.

Gravel

Gravel can offer a very attractive material for landscaping projects. The gravel stones come in many colors and sizes to ensure patio or pathway is left looking that much more unique in appearance. Also, because of the individual nature of the stones, it is possible to take complete control in designing the shape or layout of the patio area. A negative aspect with gravel is the need to regularly lay extra stones to make sure the smooth surface is maintained. However, this patio material is likely to be the most cost-effective option in the market.

Stone

An elegant stone patio is certain to provide a long-lasting and attractive surface for the outside area. Natural stone is quite expensive, so this is one of the most expensive options for laying a patio. Also, due to cost of certain stones, it benefits to rely on the professionals to ensure the work is completed to a high standard and minimal stones are damaged. These large and thick patio slabs come in different colors and sizes to make it possible to create the attractive outside space for family and guests to enjoy.

Modern Courtyard Landscape Design Ideas

Modern courtyards are a great addition to any home and can increase the value of a property while giving you a great area that you can use in many ways. For the best looking courtyards you should look into modern courtyard design ideas so that they look as attractive as possible and make the best possible use of your space.

A modern courtyard will likely be quite minimal in design, which can create a feeling of openness, space and light which is very relaxing for sitting in. At the same time a great minimal design will also be easier to clean as their will be fewer items to get behind and to clean underneath. This means that you can maintain it easily and keep it looking as fresh and slick as it did when you got it installed.

For the ground you will likely choose some kind of tiles which can be a range of materials from marble to concrete. Either way, you should try to use a light colour so that you again create more feeling of space and cleanliness in your space and whites, light greys and beige are always good options as darker or brighter colours can end up feeling more oppressive. You might also want to get your concrete or tiles printed or stained in order to add another element to them, this way you can create marble like patterns which will not only hide dirt and dust, but also make space more attractive and more expensive looking. Shapes stamped onto the tiles, or the use of different shades can be what helps to create interest in your modern courtyard design ideas and this is something you should talk through with a designer.

To maintain this modern looking design you should also be sure to get maintenance for your tiles and this will prevent things like pot holes etc from forming which will make your tiles look untidy and dirty. You can also get underfloor heating for your tiles however to prevent this and this is an aspect of modern courtyard design that is quite practical.

You will also want some form of seating in your courtyard, and you should have somewhere nice to sit while you read your book outside as well as somewhere social for people to gather when you have guests (courtyards are perfect for parties). Try and choose a seat that continues the modern minimalist look but that also offers comfort while being suited to an outdoors location.

Modern courtyard designs also need some kind of feature and there are a range of features you can use here - from a pond to a fountain to a statue or plants and trees. This will make your courtyard more than just an open space and will give something to look at. With a fountain or pond you also get the sense of purity that comes with water as well as the trickling noise and the constant movement which can add a lot to a courtyard. The correct mood lighting, in conjunction with this water, can cast patterns around the whole area. Have sliding glass doors leading onto your courtyard to ensure that you can appreciate it while indoors too.