We Get It—Choosing a Paver Can Feel Like a Lot
If you’ve been dreaming of a new patio but got stuck trying to figure out which pavers to use… you’re not alone.
We’ve talked with so many people who say things like:
“I don’t know the difference between these pavers.”
“They all kind of look the same.”
“What if I pick the wrong one and regret it later?”
Hey, we get it. There are a lot of choices out there, and it can get overwhelming fast.
Here at Willow Ridge Garden Center and Landscaping in Oak Ridge, we design and build outdoor spaces all over East Tennessee. We’ve worked on hundreds of patios, walkways, and outdoor living areas, and we’ve seen what lasts, what doesn’t, and what looks amazing year after year.
We’re a Certified Belgard Contractor, and we also work with Unilock—two of the top brands in the industry. Both offer lifetime structural warranties, and their products hold up beautifully in our Tennessee climate.
So in this guide, we’re sharing the pavers we love and trust most. These are the ones we’d use in our own backyards.
What Are Pavers, Anyway?
Let’s keep it simple: pavers are the building blocks of your patio.
They’re thick pieces of concrete or stone that fit together like a puzzle. Patio Pavers come in different shapes, sizes, and textures. And depending on what you pick, you can make your patio feel rustic and cozy or modern and sleek.
Compared to poured concrete or wood decks, pavers:
- Last a long time without cracking
- Can handle freeze-thaw cycles (big deal in East Tennessee)
- Are easy to repair (just swap one out—not the whole patio)
- Look way better, if we’re being honest
Our Favorite Pavers (And Why We Like Them)
Cambridge Cobble – Belgard
Cambridge Cobble is one of our go-to pavers because it works well for so many different projects. It has a classic, slightly textured look and comes in a mix of sizes 
and colors.
Why we use it:
- Very cost-conscious without looking cheap
- Blends easily with most homes and styles
- A solid pick for patios, walkways, or simple outdoor spaces
If you’re looking for a high-quality paver without a high-end price tag, this is a great place to start.
Origins – Belgard
Origins looks like real stone, but it’s actually concrete. It comes in several sizes so we can get creative with the layout.
Why we use it:
- Has a natural stone texture
- Looks good in more casual or nature-inspired patios
- Blends into East Tennessee landscapes really well
If you want something that feels like stepping stones but more polished, this is a solid pick.
Dimensions – Belgard
This one’s for folks who like clean lines and a modern feel. Dimensions is a modular slab system with tight, uniform spacing and several size options.
Why we use it:
- Great for clean grid layouts
- Also works well with the three-piece set for more flexibility
- Sleek finish makes it easy to clean and maintain
If you’re leaning toward a neat and structured look, Dimensions is a strong choice.
Mega-Arbel – Belgard
Mega-Arbel gives you the look of a natural flagstone patio—without the headaches that come with installing real stone. While it does have visible seams between pieces, it offers a beautifully organic, irregular shape that’s hard to beat.
Why we use it:
- Designed to mimic natural flagstone
- Easier to install and maintain than real stone
- Ideal for shaded or wooded areas where you want a natural vibe
This is a great option for anyone who wants that “flagstone patio” look but prefers the ease and reliability of a paver system.
Beacon Hill Flagstone – Unilock
This is one of the most beautiful pavers we use. It has the texture of flagstone, but all the consistency of concrete.
Why we use it:
- Stunning color blends
- Works well for patios that flow into walkways
- Comes in different finishes depending on your style
Beacon Hill sits on the higher end of the price range, but when you see it in person, it’s easy to understand why.
Brussels Block – Unilock
Brussels Block has a worn-in, tumbled look that gives off an old-world charm. We use it mostly for patios, walkways, and other flat surfaces where you want that relaxed, classic vibe.
Why we use it:
- Soft, rounded edges for a timeless look
- Pairs well with traditional-style homes
- Comes in earthy tones that blend into landscapes naturally
It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a paver with a little character.
Holland Stone – Unilock
Holland Stone is a simple rectangle, but don’t let that fool you—it’s one of the most versatile pavers out there. You can lay it in all kinds of patterns, from herringbone to basketweave.
Why we use it:
- Budget-friendly and clean
- Great for patios, walkways, borders, or accents
- Super durable and easy to maintain
If you want something classic and flexible, Holland Stone is a workhorse.
This small hillside back yard in Knoxville got some big yard treatment by adding a small Eco-system pond and making it grand with an Iron Pergola entry, Kichler Outdoor lighting, landscape garden plantings and Stone steps & pathway ending on a Belgard Circular Paver patio.
How Do You Choose the Right One?
You don’t have to know all the answers. That’s why we’re here.
But here are a few things to think about:
What style do you like?
- Want something clean and modern? Go for Dimensions.
- Want something cozy and classic? Try Cambridge Cobble or Brussels Block.
- Love the look of natural stone? Beacon Hill or Mega-Arbel might be perfect.
What’s your budget?
- Cambridge Cobble and Holland Stone are more cost-effective.
- Mega-Arbel and Beacon Hill are higher-end options that really elevate a space.
- We’re always happy to show you a few combinations that stay within your range.
What’s the space like?
Shaded areas, sloped yards, and how you plan to use the patio can all influence the best fit. We’ll walk you through all of that during the design phase.
Real Projects from Around East Tennessee
We’ve used these pavers in patios all over Oak Ridge and Knoxville. A few examples:
- A modern backyard with Dimensions laid in a grid—perfect for entertaining with sleek furniture.
- A shaded patio nestled in the trees using Mega-Arbel for a natural look.
- A classic front walkway with Brussels Block that tied right into a stone entry.
- A clean-lined patio using Cambridge Cobble for a client who wanted beauty on a budget.
We keep photos, samples, and layout ideas at the garden center if you want to see them in person.
Why We Trust Belgard and Unilock
We’ve worked with a lot of paver brands, and these are the ones we trust with our name. They hold up to East Tennessee weather, look fantastic, and both offer lifetime structural warranties for peace of mind.
As a Certified Belgard Contractor, we install their products to the highest standards. That means:
- You get extended warranty coverage
- Every paver is installed properly and professionally
- We follow best practices from the ground up—literally
Ready to Start Your Patio?
We’d love to help. Whether you know exactly what you want or are just starting to explore ideas, we’ll walk you through the process step by step.
Stop by Willow Ridge Garden Center in Oak Ridge, or give us a call at (865) 481-3825. We serve Oak Ridge, Knoxville, and surrounding areas, and we’re happy to customize everything to your home, your needs, and your budget.
Let’s build a patio you’ll love to live on.