---
title: "8 Ways to Upgrade Your Backyard with Pavers"
date: "2015-08-06"
modified: "2023-08-11"
authors:
  - name: "BobVila.com Staff"
    link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/bob-vila-staff/"
url: "https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/8-ways-to-upgrade-your-backyard-with-pavers-49180/"
categories:
  - "DIY"
  - "Driveways & Walkways"
  - "Exterior"
  - "Landscaping"
  - "Lawn & Garden"
  - "Lawn Care & Gardening"
tags:
  - "deck patio & porch"
  - "landscaping"
---

# 8 Ways to Upgrade Your Backyard with Pavers

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/cover_patio_pavers_and_gravel.jpg>)

### A Fine Match

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/patio_pavers_and_gravel.jpg>)
*Design by Mark Ashby Design and&#160;David Wilson Garden Design*

Concrete pavers and pea gravel are a lovely pairing. Working in tandem, they can create beautiful, clean, and modern patios like this one. Combine this dynamic duo in a backyard that incorporates other materials, such as stone or [brick](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-paint-brick/>), to achieve an even more unusual and interesting display.

### Pave the Way

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/paver_2.jpg>)
*flickr.com/jeremylevinedesign*

Do you feel constrained by a tiny backyard? Filling it with tables, chairs, and other outdoor accessories can make it feel even more cramped. To add clutter-free visual interest, lay down pavers a few inches apart to form a modern [garden path](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/7-thrifty-designs-for-a-diy-walkway-48856/>) that creates an illusion of depth and makes your space feel larger.

### Hop to It

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/pavers_-_game.jpg>)
*fennelandfern.co.uk*

Although pavers are thought of mostly as a go-to patio material, they can also be repurposed in more fun-filled ways. Use a bit of paint to transform ordinary pavers into stepping-stones for a classic hopscotch grid. Not only will this [backyard game](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/lawn-game-trends/>) add a charming element to your outdoor space, it will also keep kids entertained for hours.

### Polish a Pool

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Creative_Ways_to_use_Pavers.jpeg>)
*apartmenttherapy.com*

Swap out your basic [pool](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-build-a-pool/>) surround and substitute patio pavers instead. They make a sleek, modern statement while still providing a safe place to step or sit while relaxing poolside. Consider fashioning a paver path leading from the pool to your outdoor seating or barbecue areas for visual continuity and easy travel throughout the backyard.

### Get Glowing

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Intersperse_Pavers_With_Lights.jpg>)
*amazon.com*

Here's a bright idea: If you're fleshing out your driveway, footpath, or patio surround, consider swapping out a few of your standard pavers for something even *more* functional—lighting. Design your outdoor hardscaping with a pack of these paver lights, available on [Amazon](<https://www.amazon.com/Kerr-Lighting-Residential-Installation-Individual/dp/B001OMDIAC/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=ur2&tag=bovi01-20&linkId=XTTRZPHQGVF5HRPG>). These durable lighting cases, which come in standard brick paver size, will improve your after-dark experience outdoors.

### Pattern Play

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Ground_Covering_Between_Pavers.jpg>)
*Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture*

Pavers are typically laid close together, with their slim joints filled in by a mixture of sand and cement. An alternative approach is to create an interesting pattern by leaving the joints wide enough to accommodate grass, ground covers, or [moss](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-grow-moss/>). Try square pavers to lend a tidy, modern appearance to your space, or irregular natural stone pavers for a more organic look.

### Craft a Pretty Planter

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/pavers_-_diy_planter.jpg>)
*lifeinvelvet.com*

Large-size planters are a great way to add color and style to a backyard, but they can also be quite pricey. Instead of spending the big bucks, simply [make your own](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/13-creative-designs-for-easy-diy-planters-44352/>) industrial-style planters with some patio pavers and a few inexpensive supplies.

### Furniture Foundation

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/pavers_1.jpg>)
*winstonfurniture.com*

Setting up your lounge chairs on the grass can result in unwanted small holes in your lawn. Instead, give your [patio furniture](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-refinish-rusty-old-patio-furniture/>) a rock-solid foundation with pavers and gravel. Not only does this help improve the appearance of your yard, it also creates a designated seating area that transforms your backyard space into a cozy retreat for visits with friends and family.

### Paver Project

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Upgrade_Your_Backyard_with_Pavers.jpg>)
*bobvila.com*

Pavers are a great way to upgrade your outdoor space. And with the right prep and planning, even a DIY novice can complete a paver project.