PebbleLock Case Study | Outdoor Path and Patio

The Challenge:

Like many older homes in Australia, their concrete path and patio had held up structurally over the years, but the surface had cracked and aged in ways that made it look tired and neglected. While the concrete itself was still level and serviceable, it wasn’t exactly a welcoming space for guests.

Dan and Lauren wanted something clean and organic yet structured enough for outdoor chairs and tables. While they loved the texture and earthy appeal of pebbles, they also appreciated the functionality of traditional concrete pavers. Most importantly, to save money, they needed a solution that wouldn’t involve tearing up the old concrete and starting from scratch.

Dan and Lauren looked at resurfacing and complete removal, but the costs quickly added up. Demolishing and removing the concrete would require machinery, a skip bin, and a fair bit of mess, not to mention time and labour. It simply wasn’t realistic for their budget or lifestyle. What they needed was a clever way to give the surface a facelift without digging it up.

On top of that, the patio area had to be practical. It would need to support an outdoor dining setting, so whatever material they chose had to be stable enough for table and chair legs, without tipping or sinking. And along the side of the house, they wanted a clear, attractive path that tied in visually with the patio, creating a sense of continuity from the front of the home to the back.

The Solution:

After exploring their options, Dan and Lauren discovered a smart and attractive solution; the combination of concrete pavers with PebbleLock permeable pavers filled with decorative pebbles. This approach allowed them to completely change the look and feel of their outdoor space without disturbing the existing concrete. The result was a textured, layered surface that looked natural, was stable underfoot and delivered the strength they needed in high-use areas.

The process started with the layout. Concrete pavers were placed evenly along the pathway, forming a comfortable stepping surface. Around the pavers, PebbleLock permeable panels were laid directly over the existing concrete. Because the base was already flat and compact, no subgrade or excavation was required.

PebbleLock pavers lightweight plastic panels were easy to trim to fit around the pavers. Offcuts were repurposed to fill gaps, ensuring nothing went to waste. Once in place, the PebbleLock grid was filled with smooth, natural pebbles that matched their chosen colour palette, finding subtle greys and warm neutrals that worked well with the exterior of the house.

In the patio area, the same combination was used. Concrete pavers linked the back door to the pathway and garage, leaving the rest of the area covered in natural stones to give a comfortable place to relax. The PebbleLock pavers were filled with the same decorative pebbles as the path, giving the area a softer, more natural finish without compromising on stability. Dan and Lauren had considered filling the pavers with a different coloured stone to easily define the patio from the pathway but decided the separation created by the concrete pavers was more than enough.

Because PebbleLock is designed to allow water to pass through, rain filters down through the pebbles and drains away via the existing slope of the old concrete, which still led to the property’s stormwater pipes. It meant the couple didn’t need to worry about puddling or drainage issues, even during Brisbane’s summer storms.

The Results:

What started as a cracked, uninspiring slab of old concrete is now one of the most admired parts of Dan and Lauren’s home. The transformation is more than just cosmetic; it completely changed the way they use and enjoy their outdoor space. The pathway feels inviting and intentional, guiding guests from the front garden to the backyard. The covered patio, once hidden from visitors, is now a favourite spot for morning coffee and evening barbecues.

Friends and family regularly comment on how stylish and natural the space feels, and Dan and Lauren are proud to tell them it was a DIY project built on a clever, low-impact solution. The mix of hard concrete pavers and the softer, organic look of pebbles gives the whole area a balanced, professional appearance, one that feels both relaxed and refined.

It’s also made the home feel more finished and cared for. From the street, the path draws the eye and gives the home added curb appeal. Around the back, the patio has become a genuine extension of their living space. And all without the noise, disruption or cost of ripping up the old concrete.

Most importantly, the couple have a space that reflects their style and fits their needs. It’s practical, beautiful and built to last. Their outdoor area now feels like a destination rather than an afterthought—proof that with the right approach, even tired concrete can be turned into something that enhances tomorrow.