Paving stones: latest trends
14 June 2021
Interlock, paving stones, cobblestone, brick, pavers: whatever you call it, this durable and stylish paving option continues to be a popular hardscaping choice for homeowners in the Gatineau region. It’s strong enough to withstand our harsh climate and seasonal ups and downs, and offers unlimited design options to add character and uniqueness to your driveway, sidewalk, patio and pool area.
When it comes to boosting curb appeal, professionally designed and installed interlock is the ultimate material to add sophistication and class while being incredibly practical and affordable at the same time. In this article, the team at Pavage Massie in Gatineau will give a sneak peek at the latest trends interlocking paving stones.
Outdoor Living
2021 will continue to see many homeowners investing in their outdoor living spaces due to the increased amount of time that we’re spending at home. Interlock stone is the ideal material to add beauty and functionality to Gatineau properties. Outdoor living spaces that are popular choices include:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Outdoor living rooms
- Multi level patios
- Spa and pool surrounds
- Barbeque pads
- Outdoor fireplaces and campfire pits
Integrated high tech features
Interlock landscaping and hardscaping projects are becoming more and more tied to the technology used by homeowners. As such, many of our interlocking projects involve the addition of hidden power supply lines and access points so that homeowners can be seamlessly integrate extra features like:
- Electricity and USB charging plugs
- Outdoor heating
- Recessed lighting
- Sound systems
- Fire and water features
Not just for the driveway and sidewalk
Pavers are no longer being used solely on driveways and sidewalks. Many homeowners are using interlock bricking to cover large portions (sometimes in entirety) of their front, back and side yards. Other popular places to lay interlock pavers and slab stones include:
- Pool and spa surrounds
- Multi-level patios
- Steps and porches
- Fire pits
- Fountains and ponds
- Ornamental grass gardens
Unlimited combinations
Whether you’re using interlock bricks in a driveway, walkway, parking lot, or outdoor living space, the combination options are literally endless when it comes to the design and layout for a distinctly unique look and feel. Let’s look at some of the design elements that can help you create the ultimate interlock look:
Pattern
There are countless different ways to layout interlock pavers and slabs and to create beautiful patterns. Trends in paver patterns to watch for include:
- Stripes
- Mosaics
- Full paving
- Checkerboard
- Zigzag
- Cubic illusions
Shape
Using pavers with different shapes is an important part of making the pattern of your interlock surface stand out. Trending shapes for interlock bricks include:
- Linear
- Square
- Diamond
- Geometric
Size
A great way to add interest to your interlock pattern is to integrate different sizes of bricks. We’re seeing more and more integration of both larger slabs and smaller pavers in some of our favourite interlock designs.
Texture
Interlock stones now offer a much wider array of textures. The tightness of the stone plays a huge role in how the surface will look and function. It’s important to have a conversation with your paving contractor to discuss exactly how you plan to use your interlock surface to inform the type of stone and texture that will best serve your needs.
Colour
There has been an explosion of colour added to the world of interlock and we love it! We’re seeing more designs which incorporate multiple colours and in a much wider array of tones and shades. Whether you’re going for a classy monotone look, or a design that oozes with character and originality, colour will play an essential role in achieving the look you want for your interlock driveway, entrance, patio, or outdoor living space.
Hybrid surfaces
The team at Pavage Massie are well known for our seamless application of hybrid surfaces which include both interlock and asphalt. These hybrid paved surfaces are a fantastic option for those who want to add the character of interlock with the functionality and economy of asphalt.
Let’s talk about your project
If you are planning a paving project, let’s chat! The team here at Pavage Massie in Gatineau have extensive experience in working with a variety of materials to make beautiful driveways, sidewalks, patios, and more. Our interlock work comes with a 2 year guarantee and a lifetime of beauty!
