Consider These 3 Brick Paver Patterns for Your Naperville and Hinsdale, IL Patio

The classic look of brick may seem limited in terms of artistic expression, but remember that people have been experimenting and perfecting bricklaying techniques for thousands of years and creativity abounds. Bricks come in various colors and sizes, but it’s how the patterns interact with the surrounding landscape that can really make things exciting. Consider these three brick paver patterns for your Naperville and Hinsdale, IL patio.

Walkways: Running Bond

One of the most common brick patterns is the running bond. This is the classic pattern for vertical structures. It is strong, simple, and timeless. Each brick is laid end to end, then the next row is staggered to create a system that equalizes pressure across each piece. Running bond is perfect for creating long sight lines and it’s the ideal pattern for straight or curved walkways. Complement the pattern with a strong border made of cobblestones or bricks laid in a soldier bond or stacked bond (the long sides resting against each other like soldiers in a row).

Patios: Basketweave

The double basketweave is another favorite of bricklayers for a simple reason: it’s eye-catching. The low-key line work depends on some simple geometry. This pattern uses bricks that are twice as long as they are wide. When laid next to another brick, this creates a perfect square with a line of separation running straight through the middle. The squares next to this one are turned 90 degrees, making a larger pattern that resembles the woven texture of a basket. The double basketweave pattern causes people to slow down and look at the texture, which makes it perfect for patios. A small patio will feel more charming; and a large patio will also feel more intimate as the intricate pattern keeps the eye engaged in the space. A stacked bond border will make the patio secure and add interest.

Driveways: Herringbone

The driveway is often the most neglected of masonry spaces in a landscape (it is often thought of as purely practical and not much design consideration is given to it). However, it usually takes up a large surface area and it’s a great opportunity for creative expression. Here especially, bricks need to support much more weight and take more pressure from vehicles, especially if the driveway is on a slope. The herringbone is a great option to use for your driveway. The herringbone pattern creates a visually stunning texture and because of the orientation of the bricks (with the “arrow” ends pointing uphill), it will help the entire paved surface to stand stronger against the increased pressures and potential gradual sliding downhill. Also, the diagonal lines help funnel surface water downstream to prevent puddles or ice. Finish the look with a sturdy stacked bond border.

Other Patterns and Colors

You don’t need to stick to rectangular patterns in your space to create a wonderful paved surface. Complex, yet satisfying and intricate brick patterns include the stunning Spanish bond and the rich puzzle of the whorled pattern. Circular or fan patterns are also ideal layouts for bricks: their slender shapes lend themselves to curved applications and intricate inlays with a minimum of cutting.

Mixing colors - for example two or three colors mixed randomly - can add to the already rich visual texture of brick; and choosing the right jointing compound will also give you a unique look. Use lighter-colored jointing compound to create more texture, and darker jointing compound to reduce it.