Let’s explore some creative solutions together!
I promise, whether your style is lush and natural or crisp and modern, you’ll find fresh inspiration right here (with plenty of joy along the way).
Mediterranean Style with Olive Stone
Olive stone sweeps in with Mediterranean charm that’s impossible to fake. Just imagine the subtle mix of creamy whites and warm taupe scattered underfoot, evoking those sun-baked pathways from dreamy coastal villages. When your paver gaps are wide, this stone brings an instant sun-kissed uplift—like summer never left your garden.
It isn’t just about looks—olive stone is wonderfully practical, too. The rough surface helps prevent slipping, while the soft colors play well with earthy pots or, if you dare, bold, modern planters. Don’t be afraid to mix them with a touch of moss or drape a few trailing herbs along the edges for a true Mediterranean feeling.
It’s one of my favorite tricks for relaxed, resort-style spaces.
I once worked with a client who dreamed of French cobblestone paths—so we lined her paver gaps with olive stone and added clusters of lavender in vintage terracotta. The result? Friends couldn’t stop raving at her next garden soirée. Try it with classic lanterns for evenings when you want that dinner-in-the-vineyard sparkle.
Find Your Zen: Fine Gravel Magic
Longing for a dose of Zen tranquility in your outdoor nook? Fine gravel might be your secret weapon. Scatter it between pavers for a surface that’s both calming and subtly sculptural.
Let the soothing crunch underfoot transport you. Breathe in, step forward, and savor the peace.
Let the Coast In: Sea Shell Whimsy Between Your Pavers!
There’s nothing quite as playful—or as inviting—as sea shells nestled between your pavers. If you love a whimsical mood (and maybe dream of a secret garden by the shore), shells are your ticket to coastal magic.
When a client asked for a garden path to surprise and delight her children, we scattered shells in wide paver gaps, mixed in polished beach glass, and tucked in a few driftwood details. The kids called it their “treasure trail”—and I swear, every guest left with a big grin.
Here are just a few ways to use shells to create that feeling of serendipity:
- Add a sparkling layer on top of sand or light gravel for a beachy twist.
- Alternate clusters of shells with river stones for texture play.
- Choose a mix of shapes—tiny spirals, scallops, even a rogue starfish or two!
Want to feel the coast at your feet every time you wander outside? Let the tide roll in, right between your toes.
4. Colorful Contrast with Colored Gravel
Do you dream of infusing your garden path with vibrant energy? Using colored gravel between pavers is such a joyful way to introduce personality. I’ve seen how a burst of color transforms a walkway from simple to stunning, and it doesn’t take much—just a daring choice and a little imagination.
Why settle for gray when you can play with the whole palette?
When you choose colored gravel, think about your garden’s theme. Do you want bold contrast or gentle harmony? Here are just a handful of ways to make the most of colored gravel:
- Match gravel tones to your favorite flowerbeds for a unified look
- Layer multiple colors for a mosaic effect—so unexpected and delightful!
- Select a single dramatic color to make your pavers pop
But don’t feel you have to play by the rules—sometimes, a surprise combination is exactly what a space needs.
I once worked with a client, Jamie, who was nervous about using vivid chartreuse gravel between their slate pavers. It turned out to be the highlight of their outdoor entertaining area—guests couldn’t stop talking about the playful colors! That’s the magic of colored gravel: it’s not just a filler, it’s an invitation to enjoy your garden in a whole new way.
5. Chic Look with Polished Pebbles
For a sleek and modern finish, you can’t go wrong with polished pebbles. These stones bring a soft sheen and smooth texture that instantly elevates any patio or path. They’re durable, low-fuss, and always look tidy—even after a rain shower.
Sometimes, a little shine is all you need for a big impact.
Bring a Magical Glow to Your Pathway with Decorative Glass
Looking for something truly unexpected? Using decorative glass between your pavers transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. These brilliant bits of glass refract sunlight by day and shimmer in the moonlight—turning even the most practical path into a focal point worthy of an art gallery. Just be sure to choose tumbled glass for safety and always check your local recycling center for unique colors!
One of my favorite projects was with Maya, who wanted a touch of whimsy in her outdoor lounge. We sprinkled vibrant blue and green glass between her pavers, and in the evenings, her walkways seemed to ripple with light. That enchanting, almost magical glow brought her gatherings to life—her friends still talk about it.
Who says pathways can’t be works of art?
7. Rustic Warmth with Wood Chips
If you’re searching for a way to instantly infuse rustic charm into your garden, wood chips are a delightful solution. They offer so much more than meets the eye; think of them as the cozy sweater for your pathways. Whenever I work with clients who want a gentle, inviting feel between their pavers, this is my number one suggestion.
I remember helping a client create a winding walkway through her cottage-style vegetable beds. She craved a path that felt warm, comfortable, and blended naturally with her plants. Wood chips delivered on all fronts. If you want to make the most of them, consider these tips:
- Lay down a weed barrier first—this keeps the path tidy and low-maintenance.
- Refresh your wood chips every year for vibrant color and a soft, plush feel underfoot.
- Choose natural, undyed chips for the most organic look.
It’s amazing how something so simple can make your whole garden feel like home.
Doesn’t the thought of wandering barefoot along a wood chip path sound dreamy?
8. Rustic Appeal with Crushed Granite
Crushed granite brings a quiet, earthy grace to your outdoor paths. Its natural tones weave seamlessly between pavers, creating a grounded space that feels welcoming in every season.
I often encourage clients to try this if they want their outdoor areas to stay neat, even after a storm. Need a quick tip? Compact the granite firmly with a tamper after spreading—you’ll be surprised at just how solid and tidy it remains.
Could your patio use a little extra rustic sparkle?
9. Playful Texture with Bark Chips
Ready for a touch of fun underfoot? Bark chips add a lively texture between pavers, almost like nature’s own confetti scattered along your walkways.
I recently worked with a family who wanted a woodland-themed seating nook tucked beneath their mature trees. We tucked bark chips between their stone pavers, and the effect was simply magical—the chips looked as if they had always been part of the scene. The children loved the soft cushion and the natural playfulness it brought.
Bark chips are more than just good looks—they hold moisture, soften footsteps, and blend with any leafy setting.
Let your garden pathways feel a little more like an adventure.
Vibrant Touch with Painted Pebbles
Simple materials, big impact. Painted pebbles bring a playful and artistic note to outdoor spaces—each one is like a miniature, moveable mural beneath your feet. There’s such joy in taking everyday stones and transforming them into colorful gems. Why settle for gray when you could have a rainbow at your toes?
And the best part?
You don’t need to be a professional artist to make it work. When I helped a group of neighbors spruce up their shared community garden, we painted dozens of pebbles together. It turned an ordinary path into a string of conversation starters. If you’d like to try this at home, here are a few of my favorite tips:
- Wash and dry each pebble before painting so your designs last longer
- Let your imagination run wild—bright colors, simple patterns, or even little messages all add charm
- Seal the finished pebbles with a clear, weatherproof coat to keep them vibrant through the seasons
Painted pebbles aren’t just decorative—they’re invitations to pause, smile, and connect.
What story will your stones tell?
Classic Touch with Sand and Cement
For those who appreciate time-tested solutions, a classic mix of sand and cement fills gaps cleanly and holds firm. Simply tamp the mixture between pavers, sweep the excess, and give it a gentle mist to set. I once worked with a homeowner on a bustling street who chose this method for its durability and practicality.
It’s a technique that stands the test of time.
Modern Edge with Broken Slate
Few materials provide as striking a modern edge as broken slate laid between pavers. The jagged and organic shapes create a dynamic interplay, drawing the eye with every step.
I once had the pleasure of helping a client create a dramatic slate “river” weaving through their Zen-inspired patio.
It brought in texture, drama, and a sense of movement—like a work of art you can walk across.
Carefully curating contrasting shapes, and nestling each piece so the surface stays even, is key for both looks and safety. Have you ever run your hand over cool slate after a summer rain? That’s the kind of tactile magic you can build into your own backyard.
13. Natural Look with River Rock
There’s something special about bringing a natural aesthetic to your garden paths or patio. River rock is the perfect way to soften the sharp edges of your pavers while creating a connection to the gentle movement of water-worn stones.
Have you ever wished your outdoor space felt more like a serene retreat? I once worked with a family hoping to recreate the peaceful charm of a riverside for their outdoor dining area, and river rocks made all the difference. To make the most of these smooth, rounded stones, try these placement ideas:
- Layer different sizes of river rock for a textured, multidimensional look.
- Align stones in gentle curves to enhance the visual flow of your walkway.
- Use river rocks as a grounding element around stepping stones for a natural frame.
Just a little care with positioning and spacing, and you’ll notice how light and shadow play across the stones, changing your view throughout the day.
Take a few moments to walk barefoot on your new path—the smooth stones beneath your feet might just become your favorite part of the garden.
Let your pavers embrace the serene retreat feel, as if they’ve always belonged to the landscape. Sometimes, the simplest elements are the most transformative.
14. Bold Statement with Black Lava Rocks
If you crave bold contrast and unmistakable flair, black lava rocks are your go-to pick. Their unique texture and striking color make even a simple path a standout.
Ready to turn heads? These stones ignite visual drama, and every step feels like a showstopper.
Sometimes, being daring is exactly what a space needs.
15. Eco-Friendly Charm with Moss
Have you ever imagined your garden path as a lush, soft trail reminiscent of an enchanted forest floor?
Adding moss is a truly eco-friendly choice and infuses your outdoor spaces with a touch of whimsical magic. I once helped a client create a reading nook on her shady patio using pavers nestled in a patchwork of moss—and the effect was pure storybook charm. To help moss thrive, think moist, shaded corners, and give it time to slowly paint your gaps with a green carpet.
Patience is key; moss spreads gradually but rewards you with a low-maintenance, velvety landscape. If you listen carefully, you might even hear the garden sigh in delight.
Sometimes, the greenest touch is the gentlest.
Sustainable Choice with Recycled Glass Mulch
Recycled glass mulch isn’t just a creative way to fill paver gaps—it’s a truly responsible option for any eco-minded gardener. Ever wondered how to bring more color and sparkle to your outdoor spaces, while giving new life to discarded materials? This tumbled glass solution is where beauty meets sustainability, with an irresistible dash of personality.
There are so many reasons to love this choice:
- It comes in an array of glimmering colors, letting you match (or contrast!) your plantings and pavers.
- Installation is a breeze—just gently rake the glass into place and hose it down to settle.
- It deters weeds while allowing rainwater to filter through, making your garden not just stylish but smart.
Waste not, want not! I once worked with a creative pair of clients who wanted their patio to pop. We chose cobalt, emerald, and amber mulch between their pavers, and suddenly the space was transformed—neighbors stopped by just to admire the shimmer.
Recycled glass mulch isn’t just a finish; it’s a statement of care for the planet and your style.
Lush Greenery with Creeping Thyme
If you want a living carpet, nothing beats creeping thyme. Brush your hand across it, and you’ll catch an instant burst of fragrance—such a treat for the senses!
You’d be surprised how tough and beautiful creeping thyme can be, thriving even when regularly stepped on.
Sleek Finish with Polymeric Sand!
Polymeric sand is my go-to for a tidy, professional look. Unlike regular sand, this clever mix contains polymers that activate with water, locking every grain in place—no more shifting or scattering after a rainstorm.
I once helped a busy young couple revamp their front walkway using this method. Their biggest concern was maintenance, and after we set the sand, they couldn’t believe how much less weeding they had to do!
Your toes will thank you every time you stroll the path, free from loose stones and sprouting weeds.
A Haven for Wildlife: Inviting Nature with Native Ground Covers
When you invite native ground covers to fill the spaces between your pavers, you’re not just making your garden lush—you’re creating an ecological tapestry that buzzes with life. I’ve noticed that when we choose locally adapted plants, the effect on biodiversity is incredible. Suddenly, butterflies, bees, and even tiny songbirds find reasons to visit your paths.
Let me tell you about a delightful project I did for a client—Emma, who wanted her backyard walkway to feel alive all year. We planted native creeping thyme and wild strawberries between her stepping stones. The results? She now spots pollinators daily, and her garden has become the neighborhood’s favorite stop for butterflies! If you’d like to encourage more wildlife, try focusing on these essentials:
- Choose species native to your region: They’ll thrive and require less maintenance.
- Layer heights and textures: Combining low and slightly taller ground covers creates microhabitats for different insects.
- Leave a few natural gaps: These “messy” spots are the icing on the cake for wildlife seeking shelter.
Can you imagine your garden path humming with the gentle activity of bees and the flutter of wings? It’s absolutely possible. Adding native ground covers is one of the simplest ways to support local wildlife—while giving your garden that wild, effortless beauty.
It’s truly the kind of beauty that keeps on giving.
Pure Simplicity, Illuminated
White sand brings a sense of simple elegance to every garden path. The clean, bright contrast it creates feels almost meditative, especially in sun-drenched spaces.
It’s like a breath of fresh air for your outdoor sanctuary.
Want to evoke tranquility in your own garden? Try using white sand between your pavers—its subtle sheen can transform even the smallest path. Sometimes, less truly is more.
