Combining turf and pavers creates a backyard that is both beautiful and functional. The soft, green texture of turf contrasts beautifully with the hard, structured surface of pavers, creating visual interest and defined zones for different activities. Turf provides a comfortable, natural surface for play and lounging, while pavers offer durable, low-maintenance areas for dining, entertaining, and pathways. Here are fourteen turf and pavers backyard designs to inspire your next project.
1. Grid Pattern Turf and Pavers
A grid pattern is a classic way to combine turf and pavers. Lay pavers in a square or rectangular grid, with turf growing in the spaces between. This design creates a formal, structured look that works well for patios, driveways, or parking areas. The turf softens the hardscape, and the pavers provide a stable surface for furniture or vehicles. Use concrete or stone pavers in a neutral color.
2. Winding Turf Path with Stepping Pavers
Create a natural-looking pathway by setting irregular stone or concrete pavers into the turf at intervals. The pavers act as stepping stones, guiding guests through the garden without damaging the grass. Use a winding layout for a organic, informal feel. This design is perfect for connecting different zones of your yard—patio to garden, fire pit to seating area.
3. Large Central Turf Area with Paver Border
Define your lawn area with a border of pavers. The pavers create a crisp edge between the turf and flower beds, patios, or pathways. Use brick, stone, or concrete pavers in a contrasting color to the grass. A paver border gives your lawn a polished, manicured appearance and makes mowing easier.
4. Paver Patio with Turf Inlay
Create a patio with turf inlays for a soft, natural look. Lay pavers in a square or rectangular shape, but leave openings or strips where turf can grow. The turf softens the hardscape and adds color and texture. This design works well for dining or lounge areas where you want the stability of pavers but the comfort of grass underfoot.
5. Circular Turf Area Surrounded by Pavers
Create a circular turf area surrounded by a ring of pavers. The turf can serve as a play area, a spot for a fire pit, or a place for lounge chairs. The paver ring defines the space and provides a stable surface for walking or placing furniture. Use contrasting paver colors to make the circle stand out.
6. Paver Driveway with Turf Strips
A paver driveway with turf strips combines durability with permeability. Lay pavers in two parallel tracks for the wheels, with turf growing in the center strip. This design reduces the amount of hardscape, allows water to infiltrate, and creates a beautiful, park-like entrance. Use large-format concrete or stone pavers for stability.
7. Turf and Paver Checkerboard
A checkerboard pattern of turf and pavers is a bold, graphic design. Alternate square pavers with square turf areas in a grid. This design is best viewed from above—from a deck, balcony, or second-story window. It creates a striking, modern look for a patio or courtyard. Use pavers in a contrasting color to the turf.
8. Paver Walkway with Turf Between
Create a wide walkway with pavers set into the turf with gaps between them. The turf grows between the pavers, creating a soft, natural path. Use large, irregular stones for a rustic look, or rectangular pavers for a modern feel. This design is perfect for garden paths or for connecting different areas of your yard.
9. Turf Terrace with Paver Retaining Walls
For sloped yards, create terraced levels with turf on the flat surfaces and paver retaining walls to hold the earth. The paver walls add structure and prevent erosion, while the turf provides a soft, usable surface. Use stone or concrete pavers for the walls, and plant trailing vines to soften the edges.
10. Turf Bocce Court with Paver Border
Build a bocce court in your backyard with a turf playing surface and a paver border. The turf provides a soft, true roll for the balls, and the paver border defines the court and provides a stable surface for players. Add a paver path around the court for easy access.
11. Paver Patio with Turf Between
For a modern, open look, lay pavers with wide gaps filled with turf. The turf grows between the pavers, creating a soft, permeable surface. This design works well for patios, pool decks, or pathways. Use large-format pavers in a neutral color, and keep the turf well-maintained.
12. Turf Putting Green with Paver Surround
Create a backyard putting green with artificial turf and a paver surround. The turf provides a smooth, consistent surface for putting, and the pavers create a border and a stable area for standing. Add a paver pathway around the green and a small seating area nearby.
13. Paver Patio with Turf Accent Strips
Add turf accent strips to a paver patio for a contemporary, linear look. Lay the pavers in a rectangular pattern, then remove a few rows of pavers and replace them with strips of turf. The turf adds color and softness, breaking up the hardscape. This design works well for modern or minimalist homes.
14. Turf and Paver Courtyard
Create an enclosed courtyard with a mix of turf and pavers. Use pavers for the dining and lounging areas, and turf for a small lawn or garden. Add potted plants, a fountain, and comfortable furniture. The combination of soft and hard surfaces creates a balanced, inviting outdoor room.
Conclusion
Combining turf and pavers is a versatile and attractive approach to backyard design. The contrast between soft, natural grass and hard, structured pavers creates visual interest, defines zones, and improves functionality. Whether you choose a formal grid pattern, a winding path with stepping stones, a paver patio with turf inlays, or a putting green with a paver surround, there is a design for every style and space. Consider how you will use your backyard—for dining, lounging, playing, or gardening—and choose a turf and paver layout that enhances your outdoor living experience. With thoughtful planning, your backyard can become a beautiful, functional space that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.