We built our paver patio 10 years ago and there weren't nearly as many colors available - only the basic brick-size style. All the same, we really like ours. Tones of tan with hints of burgundy. If I were building now, I might go for a cobblestone look because it seems relaxing to me.

I really like your layout. Our patio is squared (because that's how we felt comfortable building it ourselves). Then, we had a landscape planner size and shape the flanking gardens to soften the look. Photos are linked from "My Page".

Any of the shapes will give you a wonderful patio. Good luck in your project.

I have some experience with the Brussels block!

It will have some variations too, or were you thinking maybe you might like a little more contrast with your siding?

Limestone and sandstone are very similar, but there is going to be variegation in both color and the blocks themselves.

Here is a pic I found on the web, that combines them both.

Here is a link that might be useful: {{!gwi}}

I think you might want to combine the body of the house color with the roof color to get a more pleasing contrast.

Here is another pic, this time combining Buff & Limestone Brussels block.

I don't know anything about the Belgard, but if the blocks are smaller you'll need more, if cost is a factor.

Here is a link that might be useful: {{!gwi}}

You know, that last pic looks like it has some other material (is that bluestone or slate?) as well as the block. Kinda like putting on a pearl necklace with a little black dress. Gives you another option, and would add a little extra interest at a minimal cost.

I would definitely ask a reputable local installer for their professional opinion, even if you end up DIY.

I would put some contrast in the pavers........possibly edge them in the sandstone and put in a mix with more darker/warmer tones. The patio looks very nice, so I think you'd want it to stand out. Similar to the stone in pic #2 (with the bowl of grapes).
I like your choice of the Brussels block style, we have the style in your last pic and it's OK, but not as nice as your choice of the stone look.
I also would put up a Pergola out the back just to break up the large back wall.
You can dress it up with planters and drapes or just leave and it would look good : )

Here is a link that might be useful:

LOVE the 2nd picture prairiegirlz5!!! That would look soooo good!

Prairiegirlz - Thanks so much for the picture. That is just what I had in mind (first picture). In your second picture, it does appear that there is another type of material involved. Also, I don't think "buff" is a color choice for the Brussels block in the midwest. You've got me thinking about ways to add a bit more contrast, though. With only the two sample stones, it's hard to envision the entire look, and I know you're right that with a large number of stones, there will definitely be more contrast.

Saskatchewan Girl, Thanks for your reply. I think the Sierra color has a lot more color variation in it, so do you think that would work better? Also, the Pergolas are beautiful! I would love one of those.

We're going for a traditional look, not too contemporary/modern. And, we're definitely hiring a professional for the install, as we're not handy in any way.

Jan

Oh, all those pictures are so beautiful!! (Except that one with all the darned snow.) I am in such a funk since it will be below zero again tonight.

I am going to go look at patio pictures so I can dream of spring tonight.

Yes!! Sierra would be a nice choice, it has a mixture of tones that would contrast nicely with the light colored siding. If you ask me, it looks real close to the buff/limestone!

I would like to see the brown tone of your roof in a contrasting edging material, otherwise it might seem as though you overlooked it. Details make all the difference when going for subtlety!

Remember, you will SEE ONLY the PAVERS for three or four months of the year, with little or no vegetation or patio furniture to soften the look.

Unless you use evergreens and/or lighting in key places closer to the house, so try to envision what it will look like with nothing else but those few embellishments.

I vote for the brussels style with the sandstone being the base and the limestone as an accent.

I think the limestone will tie in the roof color nicely.

I agree that you're going to have many months with no greenery, so make sure your landscape design has some evergreens - boxwoods, etc. I have not been a fan of pavers that are on the red/rust tones because I think then your patio is competing with the color scheme of your garden.

Stick with very neutral colors then you can use any color in the garden. You can also add some design punch with garden art - wrought iron pieces etc. I love your design, it's going to look so good when it's done. Are you starting this spring? You'll have to post some before and afters. I love landscaping!!

First of all, what a big, beautiful home you have!....I tend to agree with caroleoh - I really like the brussels style - sandstone base and limestone accent. I'm not crazy about the Belgard - looks too "neat" for me. I like the more rustic, natural look that the brussels style offers.

I also like the idea of a pergola. We added one to our outdoor kitchen/patio/fireplace, and really like it.

You are going to have so much fun, once the snow melts!!!

Yes jan, I think the Sierra would be a good choice. Same as the pergola, depending on the color of stain they can look very traditional but you can dress them up contemporary too. They don't have to be square/rectagular only too. I think the more plants and curves to the top wood edging, the more traditional. It would help your eyes with all that SNOW! LOL, being in Sask I know snow!!!!
Your patio plan is so gorgeous, I can't wait to see it done : )

Thanks to all of you, as you've confirmed what we were leaning toward - the Brussels with the combo of sandstone and limestone colors. Our siding and roofing colors really look different depending on lighting conditions outside. Sometimes the siding looks more grayish and the roofing charcoal, and at other times, the siding appears more beige and the roofing more brown (as in the pictures I posted). I know vinyl siding isn't the most attractive thing, however, it's the most common material here in the midwest, as our weather is very hard on wood, and of course, brick is really expensive. Do you think the limestone color of the Brussels block is too gray for our roofing color, or do you think it blends alright?

We will definitely make use of evergreens in the landscaping. They are very much a part of our natural surroundings, and as you all mentioned, our winter lasts many months.

If any of you have thoughts as to how to go about selecting plantings to achieve a nice balance of color, that would be great. I read somewhere that a better effect can be achieved by selecting less plant varieties and just planting more of them, so that fewer colors make a bigger impact, rather than planting too many different things in too many different colors.

Caroleoh, what a great point about letting the plantings be the color, and not the pavers. You're so right.

Saskatchewan girl, while I like the Sierra block color, when all laid together the overall look is quite busy because the blocks are so varigated in color. I'm thinking I like the more natural look of the limestone and sandstone colors. However, if we combine limestone and sandstone, setting everything off with a border of the darker limestone, I think it will look good.

I can't wait for this project to get going in May. I will definitely keep you all updated with pictures.

Jan