Who to Hire to Design a Paver Patio: Is a Landscape Designer Always the Right Move?

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

If you are deciding who to hire to design a paver patio, a landscape designer is the right call for most residential projects. Designers handle the plan; paver contractors install. Some designers hire installers, while others provide referrals.

Consider a landscape architect for regrading, complex drainage, permanent structures, or a full backyard overhaul. Landscape architects hold formal education and a state license. Experienced DIYers can tackle simple layouts, and in most cases no permit is needed, but the work is intensive and mistakes are costly. Use this pro hiring guide to choose confidently.

Benefits of Hiring Landscape Designer for Design a Paver Patio

A landscape designer is the go-to for most patio designs because they combine design vision with practical site solutions. They collaborate closely to align layout, materials, and surrounding plantings with how you plan to use the space. Their garden knowledge ensures year-round appeal, and their technical focus on grading and drainage helps prevent shifting pavers and water-related damage. With a well-planned design, your patio performs better and lasts longer.

Consider the benefits of hiring a landscape designer to design your paver patio:

• Collaborates to translate your goals into a workable patio plan

• Plans proper leveling and landscape curbing to prevent shifting

• Integrates gardens and hardscaping for year-round curb appeal

• Addresses drainage to protect your home from water damage

• Maximizes small or multi-use spaces with creative layouts

• Produces CAD concepts so you can visualize the design

• Sources materials aligned with the final plan

• Coordinates with paver contractors and oversees installation

• Provides referrals when installation isn’t in scope

If your project involves complex grading, drainage, or you want to ensure the patio is installed to the highest standards, you might want to consider a patio contractor near you to ensure the job is done right and lasts for years to come.

Can I Hire a Landscape Architect for Design a Paver Patio?

Hire a landscape architect when your patio project requires regrading or solving complicated drainage issues. Choose an architect if you are adding permanent outdoor structures with the patio or overhauling the entire backyard, as these needs require broader site planning. Architects bring formal education and a state license for advanced site challenges, and designers can still tap them as needed. For straightforward patios, a landscape designer usually suffices. Many landscaping companies also offer design and installation; confirm hardscaping expertise if you hire a landscaper.

How Do Landscape Designers Design a Paver Patio?

Designers blend creativity and science to match your priorities with the realities of your yard. You stay involved through goal-setting, design reviews, and final material selections. The process ensures layouts suit views and sun exposure, adds features like shade structures thoughtfully, and addresses site constraints early so installation proceeds smoothly and to design intent.

1. Gather your goals, ideas, and must-haves.

2. Evaluate the existing outdoor space and constraints.

3. Create an initial design using CAD software.

4. Estimate project cost based on the design scope.

5. Involve a landscape architect if specialized expertise is required.

6. Refine and finalize the design with your feedback.

7. Source selected materials according to the plan.

8. Hire paver contractors and oversee installation to design intent.

How Much Does Designing a Paver Patio Cost?

Paver patios cost between $2,400 and $7,000 on average. Prices can range from $8 to $25 per square foot, depending on complexity, materials, and labor rates. Rates for landscape designers vary, with an average of $50 to $100 per hour, not including consultation fees of $100 to $3,000. Some designers also charge a flat rate for projects, with average fees of $4,500.