Crazy paving is one ’70s trend we’re excited to see making a comeback! Unlike bellbottoms, platforms and clashing colours, crazy paving never really went out of style – but it’s an outdoor tile trend that’s booming in new builds and home renovations.

It’s a subtle paving option with a big impact that gives an organic texture to any space – and it’s being used outdoors and indoors to add interest and an earthy feel.

What is crazy paving?

Crazy paving isn’t as nutty as it sounds! It’s simply a haphazard way to lay pavers that are irregular in size and shape. Its other distinguishing feature from regular brick paving is that crazy paving generally has much wider grout in the joins.

There are a couple of different ways to go about crazing paving. You can break up pavers yourself to craft broken and irregular tiles, or you’re now able to buy crazing paving from suppliers that are already manufactured into haphazard shapes. Some people prefer this option as the edges are usually honed to ensure there are no sharp spots.

How to do crazy paving

The beauty of crazing paving is that it’s the perfect DIY project. Unlike regular paving where straight lines matter, with crazy pave there are no straight lines! While there are still some rules you need to follow, laying crazing paving is all about getting those creative juices flowing!

Prepare your area

Before you start, like with any paving job, you’ll need to clear and clean the area you’re paving – which needs to be a solid, flat surface like a concrete slab. While you can lay crazy pave on a sand surface, you’ll need to ensure a really thick base of sand. Ideally, a concrete slab is the best for laying crazy pave.

 Get your materials and tools

Here’s what you’ll need for your crazing paving project:

• Exterior use medium to large sized tiles or pavers
• Tile adhesive
• Wide join grout suitable for exterior use
• Grout sealer
• Waterproof adhesive sealant
• Hammer
• Tiling sponge
• Tiling trowel
• Drill and mixing attachment
• Rubber float

When you’re choosing your tiles, think about the overall look you’re after. You may want to choose a contrasting pattern to help lift the entire look – like a terrazzo accent tile, and a couple of neutral colour tiles.

Prepare your tiles

If you’re not buying ready-made crazy pavers, you’ll need to make your own – and that’s the fun part! Lay your pavers over an old towel and lay another towel over the top and tap lightly with a hammer. Or you can use a rubber mallet and do away with the towels.

Think about the pattern and look you’re going for and that should dictate the size of the pieces you need. Keep some pieces big but also create some smaller pieces to fill in gaps. You can always break down larger pieces a little more if needed.

Sort your tiles and work out your pattern

Take the time to sort your tiles into piles of sizes and type. Then dry lay your tiles to work out your pattern before putting down the adhesive.

Start laying the tiles

Once you’re happy with the placement of the tiles, mix up your tile adhesive. Then working in section, lay down some tile adhesive and trowel it. Then lay your largest tile pieces and fill in the gaps. Have fun and let your creative juices flow – there’s really no wrong or right way to lay crazy paving! Just remember that there should be large gaps between each tile to achieve the crazy pave look.

Then allow the tile adhesive to dry according to the instructions.

Grout the tiles

Once the adhesive is dry, it’s time to grout the tiles. Mix up your grout and use a rubber float to apply and push the grout into the gaps. If you’re using tiles you’ve broken up yourself, pay attention to adding enough grout to cover any sharp edges.

Then use a damp sponge to wipe off any excess grout from the surface of the tiles.

If your tiles need it, apply two coats of tile and grout sealer with a brush.

How much does crazy paving cost?

It really depends on what pavers you use for your crazy pave project – but it can cost between $5 and $40 per square foot.

Can crazy paving be used inside?

Of course! Just like any other kind of tiling, crazy pave is adaptable to being used inside. It looks amazing in a coastal bathroom – just remember to ensure the tiles and grout are sealed properly.

We’re loving these back-to-the-future trends for interior and exterior flooring – but what about you? We’d love to know what you think about crazy pave! Is it something you’d tackle as a DIY project at your place? Let us know in the comments below.

How do I style it?

You’ll want the textures of this style of paving to really sing, so don’t clutter your work with an excessive amount of decor, or you risk the zone becoming too busy.

Strategically placed plants look fabulous paired with earth-hued pavers, as do outdoor showers or designer bean bags for luxe coastal vibes, and of course, a stunning outdoor table.

Don’t forget maintenance!

Pavers aren’t something to set and forget, they need the right maintenance to remain in good shape through the years. Check our our guide on how to maintain pavers for Jason Hodge’s top tips.