Let’s get inspired!
Texture Magic: Mixing Brick and Concrete Like a Pro
If you want your patio to stand out, think beyond the basics. Combining brick and concrete introduces a gorgeous interplay of texture and contrast. The result? A patio that feels layered and full of personality, not just a slab underfoot.
I recently guided a couple, Heather and Mark, as they wrestled with a rectangular, rather plain backyard. We designed a circular patio: sturdy poured concrete as the canvas, then playful bands of brick edging for a pop of color and a dash of movement. The space came alive—no more flat, lifeless expanse!
If you’re eager to try this at home, here’s how you can mix materials mindfully:
- Alternate between herringbone brick and simple concrete in distinct sections (it creates visual rhythm).
- Combine brick borders with concrete stepping stones for a playful, patchwork effect.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment—sometimes, the most delightful patios are those with surprising, even quirky contrasts!
Fire Pit Dreams?
Imagine a cozy fire pit area where friends and laughter gather around the soft glow. Lining a concrete surface with rich, durable brick is more than a stylistic choice—it’s the secret to a warm embrace that draws people in all year round.
There’s nothing quite like the crackle and warmth of fire under the stars.
How Pergolas Elevate Your Patio Experience
Shade transforms a patio.
A pergola isn’t just a pretty accessory—it’s essential for comfort, especially when summer sunlight turns relentless. I remember helping Julia and Ben, two sun-lovers determined to get more use out of their patio. We designed a simple wooden pergola resting atop their brick-and-concrete flooring, then invited cascading jasmine and wisteria to climb and soften the lines. It turned an ordinary slab into a garden hideaway, filled with scent and filtered light.
Whether you plant climbers or drape sheer fabrics, adding a structure overhead lets you enjoy your outdoor space for longer stretches—no matter the weather. Could your patio use a touch of poetic shade?
4. Utilize Level Changes
When you introduce steps and levels to your patio, something wonderful happens—your outdoor space feels more intentional, organized, and welcoming. Why settle for a single, flat plane when you can turn your backyard into a series of destinations? Each level can serve its own special purpose, from a cozy nook for morning coffee to a broad platform perfect for gatherings.
I once worked with a couple, Maya and Eric, who wanted to maximize their compact patio. By using subtle level changes, we created a seamless flow between their dining space and sunken lounge. Their guests never felt crowded, and the new zoning made entertaining effortless. It was, quite literally, a way to raise the bar on outdoor comfort.
Design flexibility and a sense of depth can be yours with just a few thoughtful steps.
Take a moment to imagine the possibilities, and let level changes lead the way.
Let There Be Light!
Experimenting with lighting can completely transform your patio’s character after sunset. Imagine a subtle spark of magic as dusk sets in—suddenly, the ordinary is extraordinary. Want to introduce a golden afterglow, or hints of drama in the corners of your brickwork? Start here:
- String lights for a soft, festive look
- Solar path markers along concrete edges
- Hidden LED strips beneath step treads
Step outside one evening and see how the right lighting can shape mood and movement.
Ready to Add Some Elevation?
There’s something undeniably inviting about a patio that plays with height and transitions. When you add multi-level patio steps—especially using contrasting brick and concrete—you create layers of personality as well as real dimension. Each level can be a stage for planters, furniture, or even a tucked-away reading chair. Ask yourself: how could a few well-placed steps change the way you use your space?
Remember, visual interest isn’t just about what you see—it’s about how you move and feel within an area. Try mixing textures or shapes for a unique look.
Even the simplest step can open up a world of patio possibilities.
html
Which Paver Pattern Fits Your Patio Personality?
Laying pavers isn’t just about the path you walk on—it’s about the rhythm and energy beneath your feet. There’s real artistry in arranging concrete to mimic traditional brick, or experimenting with new twists. What vibe do you want your patio to whisper when you step out for coffee on a sunny morning?
Texture tells a story.
Some of my most memorable projects began with a simple question: “What’s possible here?” For instance, I worked with a client who wanted their patio to be a conversation starter. We chose a bold herringbone pattern edged with a running bond border, and the transformation was dramatic. To help spark ideas, here are three classic yet creative paver layouts to consider:
- Herringbone: Dynamic, eye-catching, and great for high-traffic areas.
- Basket Weave: Vintage-inspired and wonderfully nostalgic.
- Stack Bond: Modern minimalism with a strong, clean grid.
Pattern isn’t set in stone—let your creativity roam and watch your patio come alive.
Concrete Patio Stains: Express Yourself with Color and Character
A splash of color turns plain concrete into an outdoor artwork. Staining brings out warmth and character—soft terra cottas, deep charcoals, or even unexpected blues.
Walls can talk…so can patios. For one recent client, we went bold with a golden honey stain that glowed at sunset, and it completely shifted the garden’s mood. A little stain, a lot of personality!
Concrete Chic
There’s something wonderfully modern about concrete furniture—it radiates quiet confidence. Clean lines and sculptural forms add contemporary drama to even small patios. I’m always amazed at how well concrete benches, stools, or side tables pair with plush cushions or woven throws.
Concrete is more versatile than you think.
I once helped a client turn a bland patio into an al fresco dining haven with a custom concrete table and sleek matching benches. The result was not just stylish but incredibly practical—easy to clean, weather-tough, and surprisingly cozy around a firepit. Ever considered letting your seating be the statement piece?
10. Rustic Brick Wall Feature
There’s something timeless about a rustic brick wall wrapping around a patio—like giving your outdoor space a gentle hug. Not only does it provide a beautiful backdrop for lush greenery or string lights, but it also creates a natural sense of privacy that transforms any patio into a cozy retreat.
I once worked with a client, Rose, who wanted to separate her patio from a lively street nearby. We built a textured, low brick wall and trained climbing jasmine along its length. Just a few months later, she told me how the fragrant vines made her evenings outside feel like a private escape.
Who doesn’t love a nook that feels both secure and inviting? If you’re dreaming of your own rustic feature, try mixing old and new bricks for a more effortless character. You might even use the wall as a canvas for potted plants or lanterns—let your creativity run wild!
11. Create an Outdoor Kitchen
Imagine a outdoor kitchen nestled right on your patio—a place where you can gather, cook, and enjoy the open air. I recall helping a client who cherished grilling but also needed space to prep fresh pizzas. We combined sturdy concrete counters with classic brick accents for a look that’s both functional and inviting.
The best spaces are always used for a spontaneous feast!
12. Add Greenery with Planters
Looking for a simple way to add a pop of greenery to all that concrete? Try scattering sturdy brick planters around your space.
- Fill them with aromatic herbs for delicious scents and easy snipping.
- Mix in low-maintenance succulents for color and texture.
What will you plant first—something edible, or just a feast for the eyes?
