Transforming an Outdoor Living Space with Antique Chicago Brick in Fernandina Beach
In January 2023, we received a call from a homeowner in Fernandina Beach, Florida, seeking a unique patio upgrade. She wasn’t looking for just any tile—she envisioned her patio finished with antique Chicago brick in a classic herringbone pattern.
As a professional landscape architect, our client had a clear vision for creating a warm, inviting outdoor space that would enhance the beauty of her home. The existing concrete pad felt unfinished, and there was an inoperable spa taking up valuable space. Her goal was to transform the area into a timeless outdoor retreat using historic materials.
After an on-site consultation where we discussed the project and reviewed her vision, we were honored to be chosen to bring this transformation to life.
The Project Begins
When we arrived in February 2023, the site was a plain concrete slab—similar to what many homeowners may have in their backyard. The transformation would start with meticulous preparation, essential for achieving a precise herringbone pattern.
Before setting any material, we dry-laid the antique bricks to plan every cut and layout detail. Although these bricks were technically bricks, we treated them as we would high-quality tile, using thin-set mortar to secure them to the concrete base.
It quickly became apparent that these were no ordinary bricks. Stamped with the Illinois Brick Company mark, these bricks were over 100 years old, originating from a company founded in 1906. It was rewarding to repurpose these historic materials, knowing they would continue to bring beauty and character for years to come.
Addressing Drainage Challenges
Proper water drainage is critical for any outdoor project in Florida. To ensure this patio would remain beautiful and functional, we installed an NDS French drain system and re-leveled key areas to promote proper water flow away from the patio. This step is essential for protecting your investment and avoiding water-related issues in the future.
The Result
Over the course of eight days, this unspectacular concrete pad was transformed into a stunning outdoor living area, blending historic charm with modern functionality. The weather during the project was perfect, making it a joy to work outdoors on such a meaningful installation.
Seeing the homeowner’s vision come to life was deeply rewarding. Projects like this are why we founded Florida Mud Masters Tile and Home Renovations—to help homeowners transform their spaces with craftsmanship and care.
Ready to Transform Your Patio?
If you have an outdated or uninspired patio, we would love the opportunity to help you transform it into a beautiful outdoor living space you will enjoy for years to come. The patio is a place where memories are made, and we take pride in creating spaces that become the backdrop for family gatherings, quiet mornings, and celebrations.
We are confident that your new patio will be one of the nicest in your neighborhood, and you can expect a smooth, professional experience from start to finish.
Our homeowner was thrilled with the result and shared a wonderful testimonial with us, which you can see below. We are grateful for her trust in us—and we must say, she has excellent taste!
Let’s Discuss Your Patio Project
My name is Mike, and I would love to speak with you about transforming your patio into a beautiful, functional outdoor space with timeless tile or brickwork.
Give me a call at 904-267-3188 to schedule your consultation.
Thank you for reading, and we look forward to bringing your vision to life.
