Paver Patio Patterns: Choosing the Right Layout for Your Outdoor Space
When you're planning a new paver patio, choosing the paver pattern is just as important as choosing the color and style of the pavers. The pattern determines how the patio looks, how the space feels, and how the pavers work together.
At Boulder Brothers LLC, we install custom paver patios throughout Northern Michigan, and one of the first things we help homeowners decide is: What pattern is right for your patio?
There are several popular patterns to choose from, including running bond, herringbone, basketweave, ashlar/random patterns, and custom borders. Each creates a different look.
1. Running Bond Paver Pattern
The running bond is one of the most classic and versatile paver patterns. The pavers are installed in straight rows, with each row offset from the one next to it.
Think of a traditional brick wall laid horizontally.
Why homeowners like running bond:
Clean and simple appearance
Works with many different paver styles
Creates a sense of direction
Works particularly well on rectangular patios and walkways
Provides a timeless appearance that doesn't go out of style
Running bond can also be installed in different directions to change the appearance of the space. For example, running the pattern toward the house can visually emphasize the length of a patio.
Best for: Traditional, simple and clean patio designs.
2. Herringbone Paver Pattern
The herringbone pattern is one of the most recognizable paver designs. Rectangular pavers are installed in an interlocking zig-zag pattern.
Herringbone can be installed at either 45 degrees or 90 degrees, giving homeowners two different design options.
The pattern creates a lot of visual movement and can give a patio a more custom, high-end appearance.
Another advantage is that the interlocking layout can help resist movement, making herringbone a popular choice for areas that receive heavier use.
Why choose herringbone?
Strong visual impact
Excellent interlocking pattern
Works well with traditional and modern homes
45-degree installation creates a dramatic look
90-degree installation provides a more structured appearance
A contrasting border around a herringbone patio can make the entire design stand out even more.
Best for: Homeowners who want a classic pattern with a more custom appearance.
3. Basketweave Paver Pattern
The basketweave pattern gets its name because the pavers create an appearance similar to woven material.
Typically, pairs of pavers are laid in one direction and then the next pair is turned 90 degrees. The repeating pattern creates a distinctive, traditional appearance.
Basketweave is especially attractive when using smaller brick-style pavers.
Basketweave works well with:
Traditional homes
Cottage-style homes
Smaller patios
Brick-style pavers
Walkways and outdoor sitting areas
You can also use different paver colors within the pattern to create additional contrast.
Best for: A traditional, old-world or cottage-style patio.
4. Ashlar & Random Paver Patterns
If you don't want your patio to look overly uniform, an ashlar or multi-size pattern can be a great option.
These designs use multiple paver sizes arranged together to create a more natural and less repetitive appearance. Depending on the paver manufacturer, the exact combination of sizes can vary.
This type of pattern can be especially attractive for Northern Michigan homes because it pairs well with natural stone, boulders, landscaping and other outdoor features.
Why choose a multi-size pattern?
More natural appearance
Excellent for larger patios
Creates visual interest without being overly complicated
Works well with natural landscaping
Can give a patio a custom-designed appearance
For homeowners who want their patio to feel like an extension of the landscape rather than a perfectly uniform surface, this is one of our favorite directions to consider.
5. Soldier Course Borders
A soldier course isn't necessarily the main patio pattern. Instead, it's commonly used as a border around another pattern.
The pavers are installed end-to-end around the outside edge of the patio, creating a defined frame.
For example, you could combine:
Herringbone field + contrasting soldier course border
or
Running bond field + darker border
This is one of the easiest ways to give a basic paver patio a more finished, custom look. Borders can also provide a clean transition between the patio and surrounding landscaping.
6. Mixing Patterns and Colors
One of the best things about today's paver products is that you're not limited to a single pattern or color.
A patio can combine:
Two or more paver colors
A contrasting border
Multiple paver sizes
Different installation directions
A center accent
A different pattern around a fire pit
Borders around steps or seating areas
The key is not to overdo it. A good patio design should look intentional rather than overly busy.
Sometimes a simple paver with a contrasting border creates a much more impressive finished product than using several different colors and patterns.
Which Paver Pattern Is Best for Your Patio?
There isn't one pattern that is best for every home. The right choice depends on the size and shape of the patio, the style of your house, the paver you're using and how you plan to use the space.
Paver Pattern | Style | Best Use |
Running Bond | Clean & classic | Patios & walkways |
45° Herringbone | Bold & traditional | High-traffic areas & patios |
90° Herringbone | Structured & classic | Patios & walkways |
Basketweave | Traditional | Smaller patios & walkways |
Ashlar/Random | Natural & custom | Large patios & outdoor living spaces |
Soldier Course | Finished & defined | Borders & accents |
Don't Forget About the Installation
A beautiful pattern is only part of a successful paver patio. The base preparation, grading, drainage, compaction, edge restraint and proper installation are just as important as the pattern itself. A patio that isn't properly prepared can settle, shift or develop uneven areas regardless of how attractive the paver pattern is.
That's why we don't just focus on what the patio looks like on installation day. We focus on building the foundation underneath it correctly so your patio can provide years of outdoor enjoyment.
Build a Paver Patio You'll Enjoy for Years
Whether you prefer the clean lines of running bond, the classic look of herringbone, the traditional style of basketweave, or a custom multi-size pattern, the right paver layout can completely transform your outdoor living space.
At Boulder Brothers LLC, we can help you choose the right combination of pavers, patterns, borders and materials for your property. From a simple patio to a complete outdoor living area with natural stone steps, boulder walls, fire pits and landscaping, we build outdoor spaces designed for Northern Michigan living.
Luxury living near the lake starts with the right foundation—and the right design.
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