Pavers can completely transform a patio, walkway, driveway, or outdoor living space — but choosing the right color and style is where many homeowners get stuck. With so many choices available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure which direction to take.

The good news? A few simple guidelines make the decision much easier. At Vicente Outdoor Living, we help homeowners choose paver styles that complement their home, enhance curb appeal, and match their personal taste.

If you're planning a hardscape project, here’s how to choose the right paver color and style with confidence.

1. Start by Looking at Your Home’s Exterior Colors

Your pavers should complement your home — not compete with it.

Consider your home’s:

• siding color
• brick or stone tones
• roof color
• trim and accents

General guidelines:

• Neutral homes pair well with almost any paver color
• Red brick homes look great with charcoal, gray, or tan pavers
• Light homes benefit from contrasting pavers for definition
• Dark homes look beautiful with lighter pavers for balance

Let your home guide your starting palette.

2. Decide Whether You Want Contrast or a Blended Look

Both approaches work beautifully — it just depends on the style you want.

Choose contrast if you want:

• modern, bold design
• defined edges
• visible patio or walkway boundaries
• strong visual interest

Choose a blended look if you want:

• soft, natural appearance
• calm, cohesive design
• a seamless transition with your landscaping

Blended tones tend to feel timeless and easy on the eyes.

3. Look at Your Yard’s Natural Lighting

Paver colors look different based on how much sunlight they receive.

In bright, sunny yards:

• light colors prevent heat buildup
• blended tones look warm and inviting
• dark colors may appear more intense

In shaded or wooded yards:

• lighter pavers brighten the space
• cool grays create contrast with greenery
• avoid overly dark tones that get lost in shade

Check samples in different lighting to see how they behave.

4. Think About Maintenance and Long-Term Appearance

Some colors show wear more than others.

Light pavers:

• hide dust and dirt
• brighten the space
• can show stains if not sealed

Medium tones (beige, sand, gray):

• easiest to maintain
• hide imperfections well
• stay timeless over the years

Dark pavers:

• create dramatic contrast
• can show dust or water marks
• absorb more heat

Choosing the right tone impacts the overall maintenance.

5. Choose a Paver Style That Matches Your Home’s Architecture

The shape and texture of your pavers matter just as much as the color.

Modern homes pair well with:

• large-format pavers
• smooth textures
• clean, straight lines
• monochromatic tones

Traditional homes pair well with:

• brick-style pavers
• cobblestone textures
• warm blended tones

Rustic homes pair well with:

• tumbled or textured pavers
• irregular shapes
• natural stone tones

Your architecture gives you clues about the best direction.

6. Explore Multi-Color Blends for a Natural Look

Many pavers come in multi-toned blends that mimic natural stone.

Blended pavers:

• add dimension
• look softer and more organic
• hide dirt and wear better
• complement landscaping beautifully

They’re one of the most versatile options.

7. Consider Adding Borders for Extra Detail

Borders can enhance your design and define the patio or walkway.

Popular border choices include:

• darker borders around lighter pavers
• contrasting colors for definition
• soldier course edges
• double borders for upscale design

Borders bring structure and sophistication to your project.

8. Think About Patterns That Fit Your Space

Patterns have a huge effect on your final look.

Popular options:

• herringbone
• running bond
• basketweave
• random modular patterns
• large-format slab layouts

Pattern tips:

• herringbone is strongest for driveways
• large-format is best for modern patios
• random modular adds depth and texture
• running bond feels classic and timeless

The right pattern can elevate even simple pavers.

9. Test Samples in Your Yard Before Deciding

Looking at pictures isn’t enough — you need to see real samples.

Check for:

• color in natural light
• how it looks next to your home
• warmth or coolness in tone
• how it blends with landscaping

Seeing the material in person helps you feel confident in your choice.

10. Think About Heat, Comfort, and Year-Round Usability

Some paver colors stay cooler than others.

Cooler materials and colors include:

• lighter grays
• tans
• creams
• stone blends

If you plan to walk barefoot, especially near a pool, temperature matters.

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