If you are thinking of refreshing your Cambridge, MA, Area Home patio with a natural stone, then bluestone is one to consider. Paver contractors recommend these bluestone patio design trends that can bring your outdoor space into the 21st century.
Related: HOW A BLUESTONE PATIO WOULD IMPROVE YOUR BROOKLINE, MA, LANDSCAPE
What is bluestone?
A sedimentary rock that is composed of sand-type grains, bluestone is commonly used in landscape applications and valued for its distinctive blue color which can work well with any home style and landscape plan. It is durable and long-lasting with a naturally rough surface that makes it ideal for walkways and patios and porches.
Bluestone usually comes in rectangular shapes that have been cut at the quarry or left irregular to be fitted like a jigsaw puzzle. Because bluestone is a natural stone, it will have irregularities that many homeowners love as it adds character to the finished product.
Bluestone Patio Trends
Dry Laid Bluestone: A dry laid stone patio happens when your paver contractor lays the bluestone on a bed of sand and gravel and is anchored by compacted sand, resulting in a surface that looks like there are small cracks between the stone. This type of patio can adapt well to subtle shifts over time without cracking.
Mortared Bluestone: This patio has bluestone that is set on a concrete surface and then mortared between the joints for a uniform appearance. The patio with mortar will not shift over time without cracking but in the rare event this does happen, your paver contractor can remove and replace the rock to return your patio to its glory.
Bluestone only Blue: A stone patio can be designed with only the bluest color bluestone which can look uniform and classic, with a laying pattern that is placed in a continuous straight path or in a herringbone pattern. This patio choice can be perfect with a complementary low retaining wall to surround the perimeter of the outdoor space, bringing a more private atmosphere to the patio. Because all of the bluestone is the same color, any borders such as brick pavers or another paver can present an eye-catching contrast to the blue color.
Bluestone with Natural Colors: The other type of bluestone can have tan, black, and gray striations that are characteristic of the stone. Gorgeous and earthy, this striated bluestone can be laid in a geometric pattern or in an irregular pattern that resembles a puzzle. Your paver contractor can use a different paver to create rooms within your patio by enclosing an area with a contrasting paver that visually designates a new space such as an outdoor dining area.
Bluestone can be mixed and matched according to your preference, perfect for a raised patio, a multi-level patio, and a patio that is divided into other outdoor features such as a fire feature or water feature. Your paver contractor can design a new or refreshed patio with a warm and inviting fire pit that brings physical warmth and an ambient glow to any outdoor space.
Also consider having them install a water feature such as a nearby bubbling fountain or gazing pond to incorporate a calming sensory experience within the patio. When you step outside and hear the sound of spilling water, your stress can be reduced and your spirit revived.
