Clay pavers
Fired from clay like a brick, these pavers keep their colour and gain character with age. Reds, russets and brindles look as if they belong beside a Victorian terrace. Laid herringbone or basketweave, they give a traditional courtyard feel.
Setts and small blocks
Concrete or natural stone setts come in greys, buffs and charcoals. They're good for curves, circles and paths, and for edging larger slabs.
Narrow gardens
In a long, thin garden with walls on both sides, large slabs often need cutting on every edge. Smaller units fit irregular shapes more neatly and can turn corners around offshoots and outhouses.
Drainage
Brick and block patios can be laid with standard sand joints or as permeable paving, letting water soak through. That can help in small yards with limited drainage.
Combining materials
A brick border around a sandstone patio, or a sett path leading to a porcelain terrace, ties a garden together.
