When choosing a paving stone laying pattern, one thing to keep in mind is the emphasis or attention created by certain types of laying styles. For example, laying pavers or tiles at a 45 degree angle to the lines of your house will draw attention to the paving stone area. This type of angle also tends to make the paved area look smaller than if the pavers were laid at a 90 degree angle to the line of your home.

One other important consideration in paving patterns is cost. Unusual patterns or patterns within a larger area mean that more of the paving stones will have to be cut. Every time a paver has to be cut, the paving costs will increase significantly, both for the time involved and the wastage of materials.

Running Bond

This side-by-side style of paving is the plainest of all paving patterns, but it has the illusional effect of making the paved area seem narrower or wider depending on the direction in which the pavers are laid. Running Bond is a good pattern if you want to make a path look longer: position the pavers so that their length runs along the length of the path. On the other hand if you want a path to look wider, lay your Running Bond pattern perpendicular to the length of the path.

The stacked bond pattern is more formal looking, but has the least side to side tortional strength, so is fine for patios or pool decks but is not recommended for driveways or parking lots.

Random Pattern

The random pattern, also called Ashlar by some manufacturers, gives a very classic, old world look, especially when using a rippled texture paving stone. Because three different sizes of stone are used, if you have lots of curved edges, you’ll have more waste due to having to cut more stones.

The “I" Pattern

The “I" pattern gives a very classic look, and has excellent lateral (side to side) strength, and so is excellent for all uses, including driveways and parking areas.

Herringbone

The 45 degree herringbone pattern is becoming increasingly popular in outdoor living space, as the pattern works well with stand-out borders and edging. It is a busy pattern to choose so it will definitely be noticed.

On the other hand straight or 90 degree herringbone tends to blend into existing paving and have a natural flow with other sections of the house.

Hints and Tips

In small paving areas, use simple pavers and patterns, like the running bond. In large areas, you can break up the expanse with a variety of patterns or dividing bands or patterns.

Curves add interest and grace to the overall design - but also they add loads of cutting and extra work. This increases your overall cost too.