Trends in the design of public spaces: the role of modern paving stones

Trends in the design of public spaces: the role of modern paving stones

The public spaces of Ukrainian cities are changing - and one of the key elements of this transformation is modern paving slabs that combine aesthetics, functionality and durability. Choosing high-quality paving stones for a city is not only about the surface, but also about creating a comfortable, inclusive and energy-efficient space for residents.

The importance of public space design

In the past, public space performed an exclusively utilitarian function. Today, it is a place for meetings, events, walks, and social interaction. The competent design of these areas creates a sense of security, identity and trust in the city. One of the tools that directly affects the perception of space is urban solutions, where paving stones are the basis of the environment.

By using the right formats, colors and textures, architects emphasize the historical context or, on the contrary, create a modern contrast. That is why the building materials manufacturer EFE pays special attention to how modern paving slabs integrate into the context of the city.

Popular trends in public space design

As of 2025, there are several key trends:

Modularity and transformability

The spaces are easily adaptable to different use cases.

Barrier-free accessibility

Coverage should take into account the needs of people with disabilities, parents with wheelchairs, and cyclists.

Resilience to climate change

It is important to be rainproof, wear-resistant and able to withstand temperature extremes.

Local production

More and more cities are choosing Ukrainian producers as EFEs - with reliable logistics and support at all stages.

Use of paving stones for recreation and pedestrian areas

Paving stones for pedestrian areas should be tactile, non-slip, resistant to stress and at the same time visually attractive. It sets the rhythm of movement, divides the space into functional zones - passages, recreation areas, places for events.

EFE recommends the Falka Sharp shape for such projects, as its wavy shape creates an expressive visual dynamic and ensures comfortable movement. Other models, such as "Lviv Square" or "Austrian Mosaic," help to realize different architectural concepts - from restrained classics to modern urban rhythm.

Use of paving stones for recreation and pedestrian areas

Thanks to modern technology, paving slabs are no longer chosen on the principle of "beautiful or durable". It should be a synthesis. Textures, colors, proper installation and drainage allow you to create coatings that do not lose their appearance over the years and remain comfortable to use every day.

Examples of successful solutions using paving stones

Many developers operating in the western region of Ukraine use EFE tiles for the arrangement of adjacent territories, pedestrian alleys, and park areas. Most often, these projects choose:

Paving stones

Lvivskyi Square

- for its geometric clarity and classical aesthetics, which is suitable for historic neighborhoods and city squares.

Paving stones

Sharp shank

- is ideal for spaces with dynamic traffic due to its shape, which provides a snug fit and visual rhythm.

Paving stones

Austrian mosaic

- for non-standard architectural solutions and expressive accents in landscaping.

These formats are especially popular among architects who design spaces with barrier-free, durable, and authentic looking environments in mind. You can always clarify the choice of tiles for a particular project through the product catalog or EFE manager.

The future of public spaces

The trend toward the development of public spaces in Ukraine is only growing. The war has shown the importance of local centers of interaction. And the way they look is a business card of the community, the image of the business, the face of the country.

EFE continues to invest in technologies for the production of modern paving slabs adapted to the realities of the climate, architectural challenges and urban development requirements. After all, paving stones for the city are not only about strength, but also about the humanity of the space in which you want to be.

Conclusion.

The modern design of public spaces requires thoughtful and flexible solutions. For a city, paving stones are not just an element of landscaping, but part of a large system of human interaction with space. Properly selected paving slabs can make a city more accessible, cozy and functional.

With more than 15 years of experience in the production of building materials in Ukraine, EFE offers reliable solutions that meet the challenges of time - from design to technical characteristics. That is why EFE is the choice of those who create spaces for life, leisure and the future.