While hardscaping designs often incorporate large stones or pavers, some homeowners opt for small stones or pebbles. If you’re looking to add some design appeal to the exterior of your home, here’s how to use pebbles to do so:
As a Paver Base
When it comes to pavers, most are installed on top of sand. For a different look, however, you can actually install pavers on top of pebbles and make a stone-on-stone statement. When using pebbles, you’ll have to leave plenty of space in between the pavers and at Mr. Pavement, we recommend using a pebble color that blends with your pavers or a contrasting color for a bolder look.
To Add Design to a Tree
If you have a tree that you want to draw attention to, you can use pebbles to add some design to it. Simply trace out a circle, square, octagon, or a preferred shape around the trunk of your tree and fill the area in with pebbles. You can choose just one color or mix up the colors for more variety.
To Line Your Plant Bed
If you have a plant bed or flower bed in your yard, lining pebbles around the outer edge of the soil can work as a beautiful accent. (You can also add a line of pebbles in front of pavers if you already have pavers as a border.) Your pebbles can be spread in thin or thick lines according to your taste and will give you a great way to make your plants or flowers pop.
For a Fire Pit
If you’re looking for an easy-to-build fire pit area, pebbles are a great base element and are easy to install – simply measure the size and shape of your fire pit, then lay down a thick layer of pebbles. Depending on the look you’re going for, you can either put the stones around an existing fire pit or build a pit on top of your pebbles.
As a Pathway
Pathways can not only add design appeal, but they can also be a practical addition to your home. Using pebbles, you can create a pathway alongside your home, through your garden, or from your driveway to your front door. After you’ve created your pathway design, you can dig it out about four inches deep and fill the area with pebbles that complement the surrounding area. For more structure, line the border with pavers or wood before filling it.
As a Patio
Patios can not give you a great area to relax or entertain, but they can also add value to your home. If you don’t want to build a permanent patio from asphalt or concrete, you can use pebbles to create a small patio. Just like with a walkway, simply choose a patio shape and dig out about four inches. Level the dirt, then line the area with plastic weed sheeting to prevent overgrowth. Next, spread your stones out on top and make sure they sit level – then feel free to add patio furniture.