When it comes to elevating your backyard, side yard, or garden, one detail that often gets overlooked is the edging. But don’t underestimate the power of clean, stylish lines to completely transform the feel of your outdoor space.
Brick garden edging is a classic choice—sturdy, affordable, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re going for a timeless cottage look or something more modern and structured, brick edging can define spaces, create tidy borders, and add a sophisticated touch to your landscaping.
Below, we’ve compiled 19 stunning and creative brick garden edging ideas designed to inspire you—whether you’re planning a full backyard overhaul or just looking for a weekend DIY project to refresh your flower beds. Let’s dig in!
1. Traditional Horizontal Brick Edging
Source
A timeless and elegant choice, horizontal brick edging lays bricks flat end-to-end along your garden bed’s border. This method creates a clean and simple line that can visually separate flower beds from grassy areas.
This style complements a wide range of aesthetics—from cottage gardens to modern back porch ideas. Because the bricks lie flat, they won’t obstruct your view of low-growing plants or interfere with mowing the lawn. You can install them flush with the soil for a subtle effect or slightly raised to create more definition.
For added visual interest, opt for antique or reclaimed bricks. Their natural weathering adds texture and a story to your outdoor space. A sand or gravel base ensures the bricks stay in place while allowing for easy water drainage.
This edging works beautifully around curved or straight beds, making it one of the most versatile and approachable designs. Pair with matching brick pathways or patios for a cohesive outdoor living layout.
2. Soldier Course Brick Edging
Source
For a more structured look, consider the “soldier course” technique—where bricks are placed vertically, side by side, with their narrow ends facing up. This creates a more prominent and formal boundary.
Ideal for creating clear divisions in your landscape, this design adds vertical interest without being overpowering. It’s especially great for highlighting garden paths or framing a modern patio furniture setup.
Because the bricks are positioned upright, they’re more visible and act like a small fence—helpful for containing mulch or soil. Soldier edging also works well along driveways, giving a crisp, professional finish to any garden edge.
Make sure to dig a deep enough trench to bury at least a third of each brick for stability. Backfill with gravel or concrete for longevity, especially in regions with heavy rain or freeze-thaw cycles.
3. Basket Weave Brick Edging
Source
Add a touch of artistry to your garden with a basket weave brick pattern. This layout alternates pairs of vertical and horizontal bricks, mimicking the woven texture of a basket.
It’s a great fit for cottage gardens, but it can also look striking in a modern backyard with the right brick tones—like sleek greys or clean whitewashed reds. The visual texture enhances flower beds or can be used to edge a walkway for an elevated aesthetic.
Because this pattern requires more space than traditional straight lines, it’s best suited for wider edging borders. You can line the inside with pea gravel for an added polished look.
Consider using a mix of new and aged bricks for extra depth and dimension. Basket weave edging is both decorative and practical, marking space while acting as a visual focal point in your outdoor layout.
4. Reclaimed Brick Garden Border
Source
If you’re a fan of sustainability and rustic charm, reclaimed brick is an excellent choice. Using old bricks from torn-down buildings or roads not only saves materials from going to waste but also adds a vintage flair to your yard.
Each brick has its own story—worn edges, faded colors, and textural details that modern bricks often lack. This type of edging pairs beautifully with wildflower gardens, forestcore décor, or back porch decor that leans cozy and lived-in.
Lay the bricks flat, angled, or stacked—depending on how defined you want the border to appear. The natural imperfections add character and a relaxed, effortless feel to your landscape design.
Be sure to clean and inspect each brick before use to ensure they’re structurally sound. Pair with native plants or wooden accents to emphasize the reclaimed and organic vibe of your space.
5. Herringbone Pattern Brick Edging
Source
One of the most visually dynamic designs, herringbone brick edging involves placing bricks at alternating angles to create a zigzag pattern. It’s a bold choice that draws the eye and creates strong design lines—perfect for modern outdoor living spaces.
Although this pattern takes a bit more time to lay out properly, the impact is well worth it. It offers a sophisticated contrast to organic plant shapes and makes a strong statement along pathways, patios, or even vegetable gardens.
To prevent shifting, it’s important to dig a solid trench and use a gravel or sand base, followed by edge restraints or a border frame. You can create full herringbone borders or use it as an accent area within broader brick edging layouts.
Complement this look with sleek patio furniture, geometric planters, and minimalist garden lighting for a contemporary feel.
6. Curved Brick Edging
Source
Not all garden beds are square—and that’s where curved brick edging comes in. This design softens the landscape and adds a sense of flow, ideal for English-style gardens or whimsical backyards.
Bricks can be laid end-to-end in a gentle curve, following the natural shape of your flower beds or pathways. While traditional bricks are rectangular, thinner bricks or brick pavers make it easier to bend around corners with fewer gaps.
Curved edging brings elegance and movement to your outdoor layout, especially when paired with perennial beds or informal planting styles. It also works great around fountains or circular patios, tying elements together in a fluid way.
Use a flexible garden hose as your guide when marking out your curve before digging the trench. Fill in gaps with mortar or crushed gravel for stability and a finished look.
7. Brick-on-Sand Edging
Source
If you’re looking for a simpler installation with room for future changes, consider laying your bricks on a sand bed rather than concrete or mortar. This makes it easier to realign or replace bricks down the line, especially in areas prone to shifting.
This technique is particularly useful for DIYers or those experimenting with different garden shapes. Once you’ve created a level trench, pour a layer of compacted sand, and nestle your bricks in place. Use a rubber mallet to adjust each piece for a snug, even fit.
Sand-set bricks are low-maintenance and provide adequate drainage—helpful around rain gardens or near your rain gutter drainage system. The look can be casual or refined, depending on the brick style and finish.
To prevent weed growth or shifting, consider using a weed barrier under the sand and edging restraints along the sides.
8. Raised Brick Edging Wall
Source
Want to add dimension and structure to your garden? A raised brick edging wall offers both form and function. By stacking bricks two or three layers high, you can create a mini retaining wall that helps contain soil, mulch, or even elevated flower beds.
This look is perfect for defining a formal garden layout or adding contrast between a lawn and patio space. It also works well with multi-level backyard designs or sloped yards.
For a cleaner appearance, use mortar to secure each layer. You can keep the bricks uniform or alternate patterns like a staggered bond for more texture. Raised brick edging is especially effective around fire pits, seating areas, or modern back porch ideas that need a tidy, grounded frame.
Add low lighting or solar garden lamps along the top for ambiance in the evening hours.
9. Brick and Gravel Combo Edging
Source
Combine the best of two textures by pairing bricks with gravel. This design features bricks placed in a border or checker pattern with gravel filling the gaps. It creates a beautiful blend of rustic and modern tones that enhance both function and aesthetics.
The gravel helps with drainage and weed control, while the bricks offer a crisp boundary that keeps everything contained. Use this style around patios, walkways, or as a transition zone between grass and garden.
Choose brick tones that contrast or complement your gravel for the best effect. Warm red bricks paired with white or black gravel can create a striking visual impact, especially near a contemporary back porch decor setup.
This edging idea doesn’t just look beautiful—it’s also highly practical for high-traffic zones or places with poor soil.
10. Diagonal Brick Edging
Source
Want a playful twist on the classic look? Try laying your bricks at a diagonal angle, partially submerged in the soil. The result is a zigzag border that brings charm and movement to any garden path or flower bed.
Diagonal bricks can be spaced evenly for a more geometric look or alternated in depth and height for a relaxed, storybook garden vibe. They work beautifully around stepping stone paths or beside vintage outdoor furniture.
Use bricks with rich color variation or natural wear to enhance the handmade look. This style pairs well with back porch decor that features wood, rattan, or antique accents.
Secure the bricks in place with a gravel bed or shallow mortar trench. Though whimsical in appearance, diagonal edging still performs well at keeping mulch, soil, and plants neatly in place.
11. Brick Edging with Herb Planter Inset
Source
Why not make your garden edging functional as well as beautiful? By integrating herb planters into your brick edging, you can turn borders into productive spaces.
This design involves stacking bricks to create small inset “pockets” or planters along the edge of your garden. Each pocket can hold herbs like thyme, oregano, chives, or even succulents. It’s ideal for anyone with limited gardening space or who wants to incorporate edible plants into their backyard aesthetic.
This edging style adds a layered, textural look that breaks up the monotony of a standard border. It’s also perfect for those who love back porch decor with a homestead or farmhouse vibe.
Use mortar to secure the stacked bricks and line the inner sides of the insets with landscaping fabric for drainage. Add a bit of rich soil, and you’ve got yourself a charming garden edge that feeds your kitchen, too.
12. Brick Edging with Lighting
Source
Enhance your outdoor living experience by combining brick edging with subtle, built-in lighting. This idea is perfect for those who entertain after sunset or simply enjoy a peaceful backyard stroll in the evening.
You can tuck LED strip lighting or small solar-powered lights between raised brick rows or place individual lights into mortar joints. The warm glow highlights the brick’s texture and color while defining pathways and garden beds beautifully.
This design adds a contemporary edge to traditional brick while increasing safety and functionality. It pairs exceptionally well with modern patio furniture and minimalist landscaping styles.
Choose weather-resistant lights and ensure proper waterproofing during installation. For a dramatic effect, opt for cool-toned lighting; for something cozier, warm-toned lights do the trick.
This solution turns your garden border into a standout feature, day or night.
13. Zigzag Brick Edging
Source
Looking for a bold and geometric twist? Zigzag brick edging makes a dynamic statement. It involves laying bricks in a continuous angled pattern that mimics sawtooth or chevron lines.
This edging style works particularly well in modern back porch ideas where clean lines and structured patterns dominate. The sharp angles contrast beautifully against the softness of grass and foliage, providing a crisp and contemporary vibe.
You’ll need to plan the layout carefully to keep angles consistent. For a professional finish, dig a trench and use a gravel and sand base to hold the bricks in place. Mortar can also be used to add permanence and strength.
Zigzag edging makes a fantastic visual divider between lawn and flower beds, or even as an accent around water features or fire pits. Pair with symmetrical planting arrangements for the best visual impact.
14. Painted Brick Garden Edging
Source
Want to give your brick edging a creative, playful flair? Painted bricks might be the perfect solution. Using weather-resistant outdoor paint, you can turn basic edging into a bold design feature.
Whether you go for crisp white, deep charcoal, or even pastel hues, painted brick borders allow you to customize your garden to match your home’s color scheme or seasonal decor. You can even stencil designs onto the bricks for extra personality.
This idea is especially fun in family gardens or cottage-style outdoor spaces where charm and creativity are encouraged. It’s also a smart way to upcycle mismatched or damaged bricks that may not otherwise look cohesive.
Make sure to seal your paint job with a clear, UV-resistant top coat for longevity. This type of edging works best in dry areas, or under eaves where direct rain exposure is minimal.
15. Mixed-Material Brick Edging
Source
If you’re looking to elevate your outdoor living design, blending brick with other materials—like stone, wood, or metal—adds richness and sophistication.
You can frame brick borders with steel edging for a modern, industrial twist, or combine brick and timber for a rustic, countryside feel. The combination not only enhances texture and depth but also allows you to better match your garden’s overall aesthetic.
For example, brick and stone can complement a gravel path and rustic garden beds, while brick and black metal edging look great with clean, modern patio furniture. The contrast in materials highlights each one’s unique beauty and makes the garden feel more curated.
Make sure each material is properly treated or sealed for outdoor use. Use landscape adhesive or secure fastening systems to ensure long-lasting results.
16. Stacked Brick Edging
Source
Stacked brick edging is all about creating height and presence. Rather than laying bricks in a single row, you stack two to four bricks vertically to form a taller, mini wall-like border.
This option adds structure and dimension, perfect for raised beds, terraced gardens, or framing entryways. It can also be used to create semi-retaining walls that help hold back soil in sloped gardens.
Stacked bricks can be arranged in straight lines or curves and secured with mortar for added stability. Use bricks of varying shades to create visual interest, or go uniform for a cleaner look.
This design pairs beautifully with manicured shrubs, topiary, or formal garden layouts. It’s also practical—keeping mulch in place and defining space for seasonal plants or vegetable plots.
17. Brick Edging Around Trees
Source
Create a polished look around trees by building circular or square brick edging. This not only defines the space visually but also protects the tree base from lawn equipment while keeping mulch or decorative rock neatly contained.
Start by measuring and marking the shape you want around the tree, then dig a shallow trench. Lay bricks end-to-end or stacked, depending on the desired height. Mortar can be added for stability, or you can opt for a dry-fit method if you want easier future adjustments.
This edging style works well in both rustic and modern landscapes, depending on the brick choice. Red bricks lend a traditional feel, while sleek grey or charcoal bricks can skew contemporary.
It’s a great way to add order to your landscape while highlighting one of your yard’s most prominent features.
18. Inset Brick Mosaic Edging
Source
If you’re the artistic type, this is where your creativity can really shine. Inset brick mosaic edging involves embedding various sizes and colors of brick into concrete or sand to form decorative patterns.
This technique adds a touch of whimsy and uniqueness to your outdoor living area. Think spirals, floral shapes, or geometric patterns—all made from small brick pieces. It can act as a beautiful transition between garden beds and walkways or as a standalone border element.
This style takes more planning and patience, but the end result is truly one-of-a-kind. It’s particularly well suited for gardens with an eclectic, boho, or Mediterranean aesthetic.
Use colored mortar or gravel in contrasting tones to make the mosaic pop. Seal the surface for durability, especially if the edging is in high-traffic areas.
19. Brick Edging with Ground Cover Integration
Source
For a seamless, natural look, try integrating low-growing ground cover plants with your brick edging. Plants like creeping thyme, moss, or sedum can be nestled between bricks or planted just behind them to create a lush, living border.
The greenery softens the hard edges of the brick and adds movement and texture to your landscape. It’s a beautiful option for garden paths, stepping stone areas, or patio transitions.
Use bricks spaced slightly apart or angled to leave small pockets for the plants to grow through. Choose drought-tolerant ground covers if the area gets lots of sun, or shade-loving varieties if it’s under trees or along a shaded path.
This living edging blends beautifully with forestcore decor and can be a great choice for nature lovers who want their outdoor space to feel wild yet curated.
Conclusion
Brick garden edging is more than just a functional boundary—it’s an opportunity to express your style and enhance the overall vibe of your outdoor living space. From classic horizontal lines to intricate mosaics and integrated lighting, there’s a brick edging idea for every personality and garden type.
These 19 ideas showcase the versatility, charm, and durability of brick as a landscaping material. Whether you lean toward rustic back porch decor or sleek modern patio furniture, brick edging can help tie everything together into a cohesive, beautiful design.
So grab your gloves, pick your favorite style, and get ready to give your garden the polished, purposeful edge it deserves.
