Reclaimed Brick Patio: Six Months Later

Nearly six months ago, we used a pile of free reclaimed bricks that we got from my brother- and sister-in-law and turned them into the most beautiful garden patio right in our front yard.

We figured it was a good time to check in and let you know how the reclaimed brick patio is holding up!

First of all, I have absolutely no regrets about this project. For what little we have invested, it has provided the loveliest, bespoke little addition to our yard. I’ve loved how this little patio looks as if it’s been in our front yard for the entire 80+ years our cottage has existed. The free roadside iron set we “fixed” with free pallet pieces gives it the perfect cottage garden touch.

The polymeric sand functioned as the star of the project. We had never worked with this product before. But after six months, the joints look incredible. And most importantly: We don’t have weed growth in between the bricks. It was a little pricey considering how much our project required, but we stand by saying it was completely worth the cost.

Is there anything we would have done differently?

Not a thing. Truly. I love everything about how this space turned out, and I’m excited to continue carving out garden space around its perimeter. Rob really came in clutch with truly and fully leveling it all out. I’m all about “the more imperfections, the better” on these kinds of projects because nothing too perfect really goes well with an old house. But in this instance, I think it really would’ve affected the patio’s usability had he not stepped in and really helped with that part.

I debated back and forth about which pattern to use in laying the bricks but ultimately chose one I felt would really compliment the irregularities in shapes and sizes.

The original plan for the patio called for it to be used for just general gathering. Sitting in the shade of the oak tree that hangs over top. Shelling beans and peas while listening to the birds sing. Sharing a cup of coffee or a garden snack with a friend. We haven’t used it nearly as much as I would like, but it’s still just so beautiful to look at and fill with plants.

I’ve collected hibiscus, two roses, a canna lily, geraniums, and blue daze flowers on the patio. I’m on the hunt now for two vintage-inspired planters for my roses. I actually passed up two galvanized buckets at the thrift on Friday, and I’m sort of kicking myself. They would’ve been so beautiful.

Roses are completely new to me on the plant care front. I got these for 50% off; I’m certainly rooting for them to thrive, but I am also not going to make myself crazy attempting to keep them alive. I plan to treat them just like I’ve treated the vegetable garden: A wonderful learning experience.

I’d love to know if you’ve ever thought about building a reclaimed brick patio? I’d love to answer any questions you might have in the comments!