2x2 Patio Stone: Your Complete Project Guide

When you hear “large format pavers,” you might picture one minimalist style. But the truth is, a 2×2 patio stone offers a surprising amount of creative freedom. They are a versatile canvas for designing an outdoor space that is uniquely yours. You can lay them in a clean grid for a modern look or create dynamic 2 piece paver patterns by offsetting them. You can even space your 2×2 patio pavers apart and fill the gaps with river rock for a softer feel. We’ll explore all the possibilities, from concrete to 2×2 slate pavers, helping you create a custom patio that perfectly matches your home’s aesthetic.

Key Takeaways

• Embrace the Modern Look of 2×2 Pavers: Their large format creates a clean, seamless surface with fewer joint lines, making any outdoor space feel more open and sophisticated.
• Match Your Material to Your Lifestyle: Your choice between concrete, porcelain, or natural stone should balance your home’s style, your budget, and how you’ll use the area—like choosing stain-resistant porcelain for an outdoor kitchen.
• A Solid Foundation is Everything: The long-term success of your patio hinges on a professionally prepared base. This foundational work is what prevents shifting, cracking, and drainage issues, so ensure it’s done right from the start.

What Are 2×2 Patio Pavers? (And Why You’ll Love Them)

If you’ve been scrolling through outdoor design inspiration lately, you’ve probably noticed a trend toward large, clean, and modern patios. The star of this look is often the 2×2 paver. These large-format pavers, measuring 24 by 24 inches, create a sense of spaciousness and sophistication that’s hard to achieve with smaller, more traditional stones. Their size means fewer grout lines, which results in a smooth, seamless surface that feels both luxurious and minimalist.

This style isn’t just about looks; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re designing a sleek poolside lounge, a chic outdoor dining area, or a simple, elegant walkway, 2×2 pavers provide a perfect canvas. They can be laid close together for a uniform look or spaced apart with decorative fillers to create a unique pattern. If you’re aiming for an outdoor space that feels intentional, high-end, and effortlessly cool, these pavers are definitely worth considering for your next paver patio project.

Choosing Your Paver Material and Style

One of the best things about 2×2 pavers is how much creative freedom they offer. You aren’t limited to a single look or material. While concrete is a popular and durable choice, you can also find these large-format pavers in elegant porcelain or unique natural stone. The real fun begins when you play with the layout. Many modern designs feature 2×2 pavers with decorative materials like river rock, smooth pebbles, or even strips of grass in between them. This approach breaks up the solid surface, adds texture, and introduces a natural element that softens the contemporary lines. It’s a fantastic way to create a custom look that reflects your personal style.

Why Go Big? The Design Advantage of 2×2 Pavers

The sheer size of a 2×2 paver is its biggest design asset. With fewer joint lines, the overall look is less busy and more expansive, which can make even a small patio feel larger and more open. This clean visual field creates a high-end, resort-like atmosphere right in your backyard. These pavers can be a great choice if you want a solid, structured path without pouring a full concrete slab. The large scale gives your outdoor space a grounded, intentional feel that’s perfect for framing an outdoor kitchen or a cozy firepit area. You can see some beautiful examples in our project gallery.

How to Create a Clean, Modern Patio

Ultimately, 2×2 pavers are the go-to for a clean, modern aesthetic. Their crisp geometric shape and large surface area create a polished foundation for any contemporary outdoor design. The simple grid patterns they form are visually calming and provide an excellent backdrop for sleek patio furniture, minimalist planters, and dramatic landscape lighting. Because they offer such a strong, simple base, you can explore creative paver patterns to transform your space without it feeling cluttered. If you’re ready to see how this style could work for your home, our team can create 2D and 3D designs to help you visualize the final result.

Popular Uses for 2×2 Paver Patios

The beauty of 2×2 pavers lies in their adaptability. You can build with them for so many different purposes, from a spacious backyard patio perfect for entertaining to a small, intimate seating area for your morning coffee. They create stunning walkways and stepping stone paths, guiding guests through your garden with a modern flair. Their clean, solid surface also makes them an ideal foundation for a grill station or a full outdoor kitchen installation, providing a stable and easy-to-clean space. Whether you’re designing a chic poolside lounge or a simple, elegant entryway, these pavers offer a versatile solution that combines style with function.

What’s the Best Material for 2×2 Pavers?

Once you’ve decided on the modern, spacious look of 2×2 pavers, the next big question is what they should be made of. This choice is about more than just color; it defines the entire feel, durability, and maintenance level of your new outdoor space. Think of it as choosing the personality for your patio or walkway. Are you going for something practical and versatile, sleek and contemporary, or timeless and organic?

The three main players in the paver world are concrete, porcelain, and natural stone. Each brings something different to the table, and the right one for you depends on your home’s style, how you plan to use the space, and your budget. A bustling family patio has different needs than a quiet, decorative garden path. We’ll walk through the pros and cons of each material to help you find the perfect match for your project, ensuring your new space is not only beautiful but also built to last. You can see how these materials look in different settings in our project gallery.

Concrete Pavers: Durable and Budget-Friendly

If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile option that won’t break the bank, concrete pavers are an excellent choice. Forget the plain gray slabs of the past—today’s concrete pavers come in a huge variety of colors, textures, and finishes that can mimic the look of more expensive materials. They are engineered for strength and can easily handle the demands of a busy paver patio or driveway. Because they are manufactured, you get consistency in size and color, which makes for a clean, uniform installation. This blend of durability, design flexibility, and affordability makes concrete a go-to for many homeowners.

Porcelain Pavers: Sleek and Low-Maintenance

For a sharp, contemporary look with minimal upkeep, porcelain pavers are hard to beat. Porcelain is incredibly dense and non-porous, meaning it resists stains, mold, and water damage, making it a fantastic choice for a paver pool deck or outdoor dining area. These pavers are also fade-resistant, so their color will stay true even after years under the California sun. They offer the sophisticated appearance of natural stone but with greater consistency and durability. If your goal is a chic, modern outdoor living space that stays looking pristine with very little effort, porcelain is the perfect fit.

Natural Stone: Unique and Built to Last

There’s something truly special about natural stone. Materials like travertine, slate, or bluestone bring a timeless, organic beauty to any space because no two pavers are exactly alike. The natural variations in color, texture, and pattern create a rich, one-of-a-kind surface that feels both luxurious and grounded. While it’s often a bigger investment upfront, natural stone is incredibly durable and can last a lifetime with proper care. It’s an ideal choice for creating a standout feature, like an elegant entryway or a rustic firepit installation, that adds significant character and value to your home.

Understanding Paver Thickness and Weight

It’s easy to focus on color and style, but the thickness and weight of your pavers are just as important for the success of your project. These factors determine how much load the surface can handle and ensure it lasts for years without shifting or cracking. For high-traffic areas like a paver driveway, you’ll need thick, heavy pavers, typically around 2 to 3 inches thick. These robust stones can weigh between 20 and 30 pounds per square foot, providing the strength needed to support vehicles. For lighter-use areas like a garden path or a quiet patio, you can opt for thinner pavers, usually 1 to 2 inches thick, which are easier to handle and more cost-effective.

Pros and Cons of Budget-Friendly Materials

Creating a beautiful outdoor space doesn’t always require a top-tier budget. Several materials offer a great look at a more accessible price point, but it’s important to understand the trade-offs. Options like gravel, poured concrete, and certain types of natural stone slabs can provide a stylish foundation for your patio or walkway without the premium cost of high-end pavers. Each material comes with its own set of benefits and maintenance requirements. Understanding these differences will help you choose an option that not only fits your budget but also aligns with your lifestyle and how much time you want to spend on upkeep.

Gravel Patios

If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly patio material, gravel is your answer. It’s inexpensive and relatively easy to install, making it a popular choice for a quick and simple outdoor update. Gravel provides excellent drainage and offers a charming, rustic aesthetic that works well with many home styles. However, the low cost comes with higher maintenance. You’ll need to rake it periodically to keep the surface level and stay on top of weeding to prevent unwanted growth. For homeowners who don’t mind a little upkeep, a gravel patio can be a fantastic and affordable solution.

Poured Concrete Slabs

A poured concrete slab is a durable, low-maintenance option that offers a clean, modern look. It provides a solid, stable surface that’s perfect for patio furniture and foot traffic. While it’s more expensive than gravel, it’s generally more affordable than individual pavers, with installation costs typically running from $6 to $12 per square foot. The main drawback is that concrete can be prone to cracking over time, especially with ground movement or extreme temperature changes. Proper installation is key to minimizing this risk, so it’s important to ensure a solid foundation is prepared before the concrete is poured.

Natural Stone Slabs

While often seen as a premium choice, some types of natural stone slabs can be a surprisingly competitive option, especially when you consider their longevity. There’s something truly special about natural stone; materials like travertine or slate bring a timeless, organic beauty to any space because no two pavers are exactly alike. This creates a unique, high-end look that can significantly enhance your home’s character. While the upfront investment may be higher than other budget materials, natural stone is incredibly durable and can last a lifetime, making it a great long-term value for your paver patio.

How to Pick the Right Material for Your Space

Choosing the right material comes down to balancing three key factors: your style, your budget, and how you’ll use the area. Start by thinking about your home’s overall aesthetic. A modern home might call for the clean lines of porcelain, while a Mediterranean-style house could be complemented by the warmth of travertine. Next, consider your budget. Concrete is typically the most cost-effective, while natural stone is a premium investment. Finally, think about function. For a high-traffic driveway, the strength of concrete is essential. For an outdoor kitchen, the stain resistance of porcelain is a major plus. Getting this choice right ensures your investment looks great and performs well for years to come.

How Much Will Your 2×2 Paver Patio Cost?

Alright, let’s talk numbers. Planning your budget is one of the most important first steps in any home improvement project, and your new patio is no exception. The total cost will depend on a few key factors: the material you choose, the size of your space, and the complexity of the installation. While it’s tempting to just look for the lowest price per square foot, a smart budget considers both the upfront cost and the long-term value of your investment. Breaking down the expenses can make the whole process feel much more manageable and ensure you end up with a beautiful patio that lasts for years without any surprise costs.

We’ll walk through the main things to consider, from material pricing and brand reputation to where you should source your pavers. This will help you build a realistic budget and make confident decisions for your outdoor space.

A Breakdown of Paver Costs by Material

The material you select will be one of the biggest factors in your budget. Prices can vary quite a bit, so it pays to do a little research. For example, concrete pavers are typically the most cost-effective option, while natural stone sits at the premium end of the spectrum. Porcelain offers a great middle ground with a huge range of styles and prices.

To give you an idea of how much prices can fluctuate, you might find a beautiful multicolor natural stone-look porcelain paver on sale for around $8.90 per square foot, while its regular price could be closer to $16.95. Shopping around and looking for deals can lead to significant savings on the materials themselves.

Factors Beyond the Pavers: Labor and Prep Costs

It’s easy to get focused on the price per paver, but that’s only part of the total cost. A significant portion of your budget goes toward professional installation, and for good reason. The work underneath is what makes your patio last. This includes clearing the area, grading for proper drainage, and building a solid, compacted base. This foundational work is critical to prevent shifting pavers, uneven spots, or water issues down the road. Investing in expert preparation is the best way to protect the longevity of your entire outdoor space.

On average, labor can add $6 to $11 per square foot, bringing the total cost for a fully installed paver patio to between $10 and $24 per square foot, including materials. The final price depends on your design’s complexity and the site’s condition. While it might be tempting to cut corners here, professional expertise is what ensures your patio remains stable and beautiful for decades. A proper installation saves you from costly future repairs and turns your project into a true long-term investment in your home.

Top Paver Brands to Look For

While it’s great to find a good deal, the quality of your pavers is just as important as the price. Investing in a product from a reputable manufacturer ensures your patio will stand up to foot traffic, weather, and time. Brands like Belgard are well-known leaders in the industry, offering a wide variety of high-quality concrete pavers and slabs designed for durability and style.

Choosing a trusted brand means you’re getting a product that has been engineered to resist fading, cracking, and wear. This is a key part of getting the best long-term value, as you won’t have to worry about replacing worn-out pavers in just a few years.

Where to Buy: Local Suppliers vs. Online

Once you have an idea of the material and brand you want, you’ll need to decide where to buy your pavers. Purchasing from a local supplier allows you to see the pavers in person, which is a huge advantage. Colors and textures can look different on a screen, and seeing them firsthand helps ensure they’re exactly what you envision for your space.

Another great option is to work with an authorized contractor. Companies like Belgard connect homeowners with certified professionals who can not only manage the installation but also source the materials for you. Here at Pacific Pavers, we handle the entire process, from sourcing top-tier materials for your paver patio to ensuring a flawless installation.

How to Get the Best Value on Patio Pavers

Getting the best value isn’t just about finding the lowest upfront cost—it’s about making smart choices that prevent expensive problems down the road. One of the most critical elements of any paver project is the foundation. Skimping on the base material is a common mistake that can lead to shifting, cracking, and an uneven surface over time.

Investing in the best base for pavers from the start is non-negotiable for a stable, long-lasting patio. A solid foundation ensures proper drainage and support, protecting your investment for decades. Ultimately, the best way to guarantee value is to ensure the installation is done right, which is where professional expertise makes all the difference.

Smart Ways to Save on Your Patio Project

Creating a beautiful patio doesn’t have to mean draining your savings. With a few smart strategies, you can achieve a high-end look while keeping your budget in check. One of the most effective approaches is to be strategic with your materials. While a full natural stone patio is a significant investment, you can get a similar feel by mixing materials. For example, you can use premium 2×2 pavers as the main feature and fill surrounding areas with more affordable options like decorative gravel. This not only reduces costs but also adds interesting texture and visual appeal. You can also build a cheaper patio by choosing cost-effective concrete pavers, which come in many styles. While a small, simple layout might seem like a manageable DIY project, remember that the foundation is everything. Investing in professional installation for the base ensures your patio won’t shift or crack, saving you from expensive repairs later on.

How to Install Your 2×2 Pavers Like a Pro

Once you’ve chosen your perfect 2×2 pavers, the next step is bringing your vision to life. A successful installation is about more than just laying down stones; it’s a technical process that ensures your patio will look great and last for years. From the ground up, every layer and every detail matters. A flawless installation prevents common headaches like shifting, cracking, and weed growth, giving you a stable, beautiful surface you can enjoy without worry. Getting these steps right is the key to a professional-looking finish, whether you decide to tackle it yourself or bring in an expert. Let’s walk through the critical elements of a solid paver installation.

Why a Solid Foundation is Non-Negotiable

Think of your paver patio like a house—it’s only as strong as its foundation. The base is a layer of compacted aggregate material that sits beneath the pavers, and its job is to provide a stable, level surface that won’t shift over time. A solid foundation is absolutely crucial for the longevity of your installation. If you choose the wrong base material or don’t compact it properly, your pavers can sink, crack, or become uneven, creating tripping hazards. This is especially true for large 2×2 pavers, which need uniform support to prevent them from cracking under pressure. A well-built base is your best defense against the elements and everyday use.

How to Perfect Your Spacing and Drainage

You might think pavers should be installed as tightly as possible, but they actually need a little breathing room. Proper joint spacing is vital for a durable patio. Those small gaps between each paver are filled with jointing sand, which locks everything together, allows for tiny movements with temperature changes, and helps prevent shifting. This detail is what gives the entire surface its strength and flexibility. Equally important is planning for drainage. Water needs a place to go, so your patio should have a slight, almost unnoticeable slope that directs rainwater away from your home’s foundation. Without it, you risk water pooling, which can damage the pavers and erode the base over time.

A Note on Safety with Spaced Pavers

The modern look of spaced pavers with decorative rock or grass in between is stunning, but it’s smart to think about safety. A common worry is that the gaps could create a trip hazard, especially for small children or guests in heels. The key to a safe and beautiful installation lies in the details. Keeping the spaces between pavers tight and consistent is the first step. Then, filling them completely with a stable material—like smooth river rock or synthetic turf—creates a more even, solid surface that minimizes the risk. When done correctly, this design choice is both stylish and practical, giving you a unique walkway or patio that’s comfortable and safe for everyone to enjoy.

Don’t Skip Edge Restraints and Compaction

An edge restraint is like a picture frame for your patio—it holds everything in place and gives the project a clean, finished look. These restraints, often made of plastic, metal, or concrete, are installed around the perimeter to keep the pavers from spreading apart and the joint sand from washing away. Without solid edge restraints, the outer pavers will eventually start to shift, creating an unstable surface. Just as critical is mechanical compaction. Using a plate compactor on the base material and again on the finished pavers creates a uniform density that keeps everything steady. This step ensures your paver patio feels firm underfoot and remains level for years to come.

Get Inspired: Creative 2×2 Paver Patterns

While 2×2 pavers lend themselves to a clean, minimalist aesthetic, you still have options when it comes to the layout. The pattern you choose can dramatically influence the final look and feel of your outdoor space. A classic grid, or stack bond, pattern creates a simple, contemporary look that emphasizes the large format of the pavers. For a more dynamic feel, you could opt for a running bond pattern, where the pavers are offset by half. A diagonal layout can also make a small space feel larger and more interesting. Take a look at a project gallery to see how different patterns work with various home styles and find some inspiration for your own design.

Should You DIY or Hire a Pro?

Tackling a paver installation yourself can be a rewarding project, but it’s important to be realistic about the work involved. It’s a physically demanding job that requires specialized tools, like a plate compactor and a wet saw for cuts. Homeowners who try to install pavers without the right approach often end up with issues like sinking stones, uneven surfaces, and poor drainage. Before you start, honestly assess your skills, time, and budget. While you might save on labor costs, mistakes can be expensive to fix. Hiring a professional ensures the job is done correctly from the start, giving you a beautiful, long-lasting patio without the stress. A professional team has the experience and equipment to handle all the critical installation services correctly.

Tips for Hiring a Reliable Contractor

If you’ve decided that hiring a pro is the way to go, your next step is finding the right one. This can feel like a big task, but a little upfront research will save you a lot of potential headaches. Start by checking online reviews on sites like Yelp and Google to get a feel for other homeowners’ experiences. A reputable contractor will have a consistent track record of satisfied clients. You can also find certified professionals through industry directories to find contractors who meet specific standards. This initial screening helps you create a shortlist of qualified candidates you can trust to handle your project with care.

Once you have a few names, it’s time to dig a little deeper. Ask to see a portfolio of their completed projects to get a sense of their design style and craftsmanship—you want to make sure their work aligns with your vision. You can see examples of different styles in our project gallery. When you meet with them, pay attention to how they communicate. A good contractor will provide a detailed timeline and won’t make unrealistic promises. Finally, make sure you get a detailed, itemized estimate that breaks down the costs for materials and labor separately. A transparent quote is a clear sign of a professional who is confident in their work and pricing.

How to Keep Your 2×2 Pavers Looking New

You’ve invested in a beautiful new patio, and with a little routine care, you can keep it looking just as stunning as the day it was installed. Paver maintenance isn’t complicated or time-consuming. It’s mostly about staying on top of small tasks to prevent bigger issues down the road. Think of it as protecting your investment and ensuring your outdoor space is always ready for a relaxing evening or a weekend barbecue. By following a few simple steps for cleaning, sealing, and general upkeep, you’ll preserve the color, stability, and overall appeal of your 2×2 pavers for years to come.

Easy Cleaning and Stain Prevention

The easiest way to keep your patio looking fresh is with regular sweeping. A quick sweep once a week with a stiff-bristled broom will clear away leaves, dirt, and other debris that can stain the surface over time. For a deeper clean, you can wash the pavers with a mild detergent and water. If you decide to use a pressure washer, be sure to use a wide-angle nozzle and keep it at a distance to avoid damaging the paver surface or dislodging the joint sand. The key to preventing stains from spills like grease, oil, or red wine is to act fast. Blot the spill immediately and clean the area with a paver-specific cleaner to keep your paver patio looking pristine.

How to Seal Pavers and Maintain Joint Sand

Think of paver sealant as sunscreen for your patio. Applying a quality sealant every few years helps protect your pavers from UV rays, which can cause colors to fade. It also creates a protective barrier that repels water, oil, and other stains, making cleanup much easier. Just as important is the sand between the pavers. This joint sand locks everything together and provides stability. Over time, rain and cleaning can wash some of it away. Periodically inspect the joints and if you see any gaps, simply sweep new sand into them to keep everything tight and secure. Proper maintenance is a core part of our services because it ensures longevity.

How to Stop Weeds and Shifting Pavers

Weeds and wobbly pavers are two of the most common patio frustrations, but they are preventable. The best defense against weeds is using polymeric sand in the joints. When activated with water, this special sand hardens and forms a durable yet flexible bond that blocks weeds from sprouting through the cracks. Shifting pavers are usually a sign that the joint sand has eroded or the base wasn’t compacted properly. If you notice a paver starting to shift, address it by adding more joint sand around it and tamping it down. Maintaining solid joints is crucial for the stability of any paver installation, from a simple walkway to an expansive paver driveway.

Your Long-Term Paver Care Checklist

Creating a simple maintenance schedule makes paver care feel effortless. You don’t need to do everything at once, but a consistent routine will make all the difference. Here’s a straightforward checklist to follow:

• Weekly: Sweep away loose dirt and debris.
• Monthly: Spot-treat any new stains as soon as you see them.
• Seasonally: Give the patio a gentle wash to remove grime buildup. Take a quick walk around to inspect the joints and look for any uneven pavers.
• Every 2-3 Years: Plan to reseal your pavers to refresh their color and protection. This is also a great time to top off the joint sand across the entire patio.

Following this checklist will keep your outdoor space looking its best, just like the beautiful projects in our gallery.

Expected Lifespan of Your Patio

When you invest in a new patio, you’re not just thinking about this summer’s barbecues; you’re thinking about all the memories you’ll make for years to come. That’s why understanding the expected lifespan of your materials is so important. Both pavers and poured concrete are designed to be long-term solutions, but they don’t age in the same way. The longevity of your outdoor space comes down to two things: the quality of the material you choose and, just as critically, the quality of the installation. A professionally prepared foundation is what truly protects your investment, ensuring your paver patio remains stable and beautiful for decades.

Paver Patios vs. Concrete Slabs

So, how do the numbers stack up? A professionally installed concrete slab can last anywhere from 30 to 50 years, and even longer if it’s meticulously maintained. That’s a solid lifespan, but the main drawback is what happens when something goes wrong. A significant crack in a concrete slab can compromise the whole surface. Paver patios, on the other hand, offer a more flexible kind of durability. While the pavers themselves are incredibly tough—natural stone can last a lifetime—their real advantage is repairability. If a paver cracks or gets stained, you can simply lift it out and replace it. This ability to make localized repairs means the entire patio system can easily outlast a concrete slab, making it a smarter long-term investment for your paver patio.

Related Articles

• Paver Patio Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide
• Patio Design Idea Generator
• Paver Patio Installation Cost Calculator: A Breakdown
• 10×10 Stamped Concrete Patio Cost: A Full Breakdown
• 8 Steps to a Perfect Patio Stone Paver Installation

Frequently Asked Questions

Are 2×2 pavers strong enough for a driveway? Yes, they absolutely can be, but the key is choosing the right material and ensuring a rock-solid installation. For a high-traffic area like a driveway, a high-strength concrete paver is an excellent choice. The most critical factor, however, is the foundation built beneath them. A deep, properly compacted base is what provides the necessary support to handle the weight of vehicles and prevent any cracking or shifting over time.

How do I choose between porcelain and natural stone? They both seem like premium options. This choice really comes down to the specific look you want for your space. Porcelain offers a very sleek, consistent, and contemporary feel with minimal upkeep, making it perfect for modern pool decks or outdoor kitchens where stain resistance is a plus. Natural stone provides a unique, organic beauty where no two pieces are exactly alike. If you love rich textures and one-of-a-kind character, the timeless appeal of natural stone is hard to match.

Why is professional installation so important for large pavers like these? The size and weight of 2×2 pavers make them less forgiving than smaller stones. A perfectly level and uniformly compacted base is essential to support the entire surface of each paver and prevent them from cracking under pressure. Professionals have the right equipment, like heavy-duty plate compactors and wet saws for precise cuts, and the expertise to guarantee the foundation, drainage, and edge restraints are all handled correctly from the start.

Will the color of my pavers fade in the California sun? This is a great question, especially here in Orange County. Some materials hold up to UV rays better than others; porcelain, for example, is known for its excellent fade resistance. Regardless of the material you choose, the best way to protect your investment and keep the colors looking vibrant is to apply a quality paver sealant. Reapplying it every few years acts like sunscreen for your patio, locking in the color and adding a layer of stain protection.

Can I mix 2×2 pavers with other materials or paver sizes? Definitely! This is a fantastic way to create a custom, high-design look. A popular modern style involves spacing the 2×2 pavers apart and filling the gaps with decorative river rock, smooth black pebbles, or even strips of synthetic grass. You can also use them to create a stunning focal point, like a main patio area, and then frame it with a border of smaller, contrasting pavers.