PLANNING GUIDE ·
What to plan before you choose pavers
When we walk a yard with a homeowner, we start at the door they’ll use most. A patio for weeknight dinners needs an easy route from the kitchen. A patio for larger gatherings needs room for people to move around the table while chairs are pulled out.
Mark out the space you’ll use
Set your table and chairs in the yard or mark their footprints with painter’s tape. Walk from the door to the grill, garden and gate. If that route crosses a seating area, shift the layout while the choices are still easy to change.
Walk the yard after rain or snowmelt
Notice where downspouts empty and where water collects. Photos of those spots help guide the discussion about the patio elevation and where runoff should go. Also note sunny areas, afternoon shade and exposure to wind so the seating ends up where you’ll use it.
Choose samples in your own light
Compare pavers beside your siding, trim and existing stone in both sun and shade. If a pergola, lighting or outdoor kitchen might come later, bring it up during the first walkthrough so the layout can account for it.