There’s just something about brick patios that feels instantly timeless and inviting. When I first started dreaming up my backyard makeover, I didn’t realize how much character a brick patio could add, until I saw the endless design possibilities.
From that classic herringbone charm to bold, modern layouts that mix materials, brick has a way of making any space feel special.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy night under the stars or a weekend BBQ, it sets the perfect vibe. If you’re ready to give your outdoor space a serious upgrade, these brick patio ideas might be just what you need.
1. Herringbone Heaven
Nothing says classic brick patio quite like a herringbone pattern. The zigzag arrangement creates visual interest while providing excellent structural integrity for your outdoor space.
Laying bricks at 45-degree angles might seem tricky, but the stunning result is worth the extra effort. Your guests will marvel at the intricate design beneath their feet!
For a truly eye-catching look, choose bricks in complementary shades of red and brown to highlight the pattern’s distinctive angles.
2. Circular Sensation
Round patios break the mold of traditional square designs and create instant focal points in any yard. The radiating pattern of bricks draws the eye inward, making even small spaces feel intentional and complete.
Sometimes the most unexpected shapes make the biggest impact! Circular brick patios work wonderfully around fire pits or beneath pergolas.
If you’re feeling extra creative, incorporate a contrasting brick color or material at the center to really make your circular design pop.
3. Running Bond Simplicity
Where simplicity meets sophistication, the running bond pattern stands tall. This straightforward brick arrangement (think of a standard brick wall pattern) creates clean lines that complement any architectural style.
Though it might seem basic, the running bond offers practical benefits too. It’s easier to install than complex patterns and requires fewer brick cuts, saving you time and money.
Mix in some larger pavers or alternate brick colors every few rows to add unexpected personality to this classic design.
4. Basket Weave Wonder
If you’re looking for old-world charm with a twist, the basket weave pattern delivers in spades. This traditional design alternates pairs of bricks in horizontal and vertical orientations, creating a woven appearance that’s both sturdy and stunning.
Many homeowners love how this pattern brings texture and dimension to outdoor spaces without being overwhelming. The visual interest comes from the pattern itself rather than color variations.
For extra character, consider using reclaimed bricks with their perfectly imperfect weathered faces.
5. Multi-Level Magic
Why settle for flat when you can go 3D? Multi-level brick patios transform sloped yards from landscaping nightmares into stunning outdoor living spaces.
Each level creates a natural zone for different activities – perhaps dining on the upper tier and lounging below. Short brick walls between levels double as casual seating for larger gatherings.
The vertical transitions between levels offer perfect opportunities to incorporate planters, water features, or built-in lighting for dramatic evening ambiance.
6. Permeable Perfection
Mother Nature will thank you for installing a permeable brick patio! These eco-friendly designs allow rainwater to seep between specially spaced bricks rather than running off into storm drains.
Besides being environmentally responsible, permeable patios solve drainage issues that plague many yards. No more puddles or soggy spots after a heavy downpour!
Small plants like creeping thyme or moss can be encouraged to grow between the bricks, creating a magical carpet effect that softens the hardscape.
7. Mixed Material Masterpiece
Who says you can’t mix and match? Combining brick with other materials like flagstone, concrete, or wood creates dynamic contrast in both color and texture.
Try framing sections of brick paving with wooden boardwalks or concrete borders for a contemporary look. Or scatter irregular flagstones among brick sections for a more organic, cottage-garden feel.
Mixed material patios allow for creative zoning too – perhaps brick for the dining area and smooth concrete for the lounging space.
8. Sunburst Splendor
Talk about making a statement! Sunburst brick patterns radiate from a central point, creating a dramatic focal point that’s guaranteed to impress.
While certainly more labor-intensive than standard layouts, the wow factor of a sunburst design is unmatched. The pattern works especially well beneath round tables or around fire features.
For maximum impact, consider using contrasting brick colors to emphasize the radiating lines, or incorporate a decorative medallion at the center of your design.
9. Cozy Courtyard
Brick-walled courtyards create intimate outdoor rooms that feel like secret hideaways. The surrounding brick walls provide privacy while reflecting heat to extend outdoor living seasons.
Even small urban spaces can be transformed into enchanting retreats with this approach. The key is creating a sense of enclosure without feeling claustrophobic.
Climbing plants like ivy or roses soften brick walls beautifully, while string lights overhead complete the magical atmosphere for evening gatherings.
10. Fire Pit Focus
Nothing draws people together quite like a fire! Centering your brick patio around a fire feature creates an instant gathering spot for friends and family.
The warmth of brick perfectly complements the cozy ambiance of flickering flames. Consider a circular or semicircular patio design that naturally encourages seating around the fire.
For safety and style, use a different brick pattern or color to clearly define the fire pit area from the surrounding patio space.
11. Meandering Pathways
Why rush through your garden when you can wander? Curved brick pathways invite exploration and create a sense of journey through your outdoor space.
Unlike straight walkways, meandering paths reveal garden views gradually, building anticipation as you round each bend. This approach works beautifully in naturalistic garden settings.
For extra charm, vary the width of your path occasionally or incorporate small brick “islands” where the path widens to accommodate a bench or garden sculpture.
12. Vintage Reclaimed Charm
Old bricks tell stories! Using reclaimed bricks for your patio brings instant character and environmental benefits to your outdoor space.
The weathered faces and slightly irregular sizes of salvaged bricks create a perfectly imperfect surface that looks like it’s been there for generations. Each brick’s unique patina adds depth and interest impossible to achieve with new materials.
Check architectural salvage yards, demolition sites, or online marketplaces to source these treasures with history.
13. Outdoor Kitchen Base
Serious outdoor cooks know that brick makes the perfect foundation for alfresco culinary adventures! The durable, heat-resistant nature of brick withstands spills, splashes, and the occasional dropped utensil.
Consider extending your brick patio to include dedicated zones for cooking, dining, and relaxing. Different brick patterns can subtly delineate these areas without physical barriers.
For the cooking zone, choose darker brick colors that won’t show grill stains or food splatters as easily.
14. English Garden Setting
Cottage garden charm meets practical outdoor living with English-inspired brick patios. These designs typically feature softer edges where bricks meet abundant plantings that spill onto the hardscape.
Unlike more formal patio styles, English garden settings embrace a bit of controlled chaos. Allow moss to grow between bricks or plant creeping thyme that releases its fragrance when stepped upon.
Complete the look with weathered furniture, plenty of container gardens, and perhaps a brick-edged pond or birdbath as a focal point.
15. Diagonal Drama
Sometimes a simple 45-degree turn is all it takes to transform ordinary into extraordinary! Laying standard rectangular bricks on a diagonal creates dynamic visual energy in your outdoor space.
Though this approach requires more brick cutting along the edges, the striking result justifies the extra effort. The diagonal lines make small spaces appear larger and add movement to static areas.
For a truly eye-catching design, consider creating a border of bricks laid in a different pattern around your diagonal field.
16. Water Feature Integration
The soothing sound of water perfectly complements the solid permanence of brick. Incorporating a fountain, pond, or water wall into your brick patio creates a multi-sensory outdoor experience.
Brick’s natural texture provides beautiful contrast to water’s reflective surface. Consider slight level changes in your patio design to accommodate water features at different heights.
For seamless integration, use the same brick to construct raised pond edges or fountain surrounds as you use in the patio surface.
17. Geometric Patterns
Math has never looked so stylish! Incorporating bold geometric patterns into your brick patio design creates instant visual interest and contemporary flair.
Try alternating brick colors to create stripes, diamonds, or checkerboard effects. Or arrange bricks to form repeating hexagons, octagons, or other complex shapes for truly custom designs.
While intricate patterns require more precise cutting and placement, the dramatic result transforms your patio from mere surface to artistic statement.
18. Indoor-Outdoor Flow
Blur the boundaries between house and garden by extending your indoor flooring material to your outdoor brick patio. This creates a seamless transition that makes both spaces feel larger.
If your interior features wood floors, choose brick colors that complement the wood tones. For homes with tile, select bricks in similar shapes or colors to create visual continuity.
Large sliding or French doors between the spaces maximize the connected feeling, especially when the brick patio sits at the same level as interior floors.