Which characteristic is key in determining the spatial character of paving?

The key characteristic in determining the spatial character of paving is the alignment of patterns. Pattern alignment refers to how the paving elements are arranged and oriented relative to each other and to the surrounding environment. This can significantly influence the perception of space, guiding movement and drawing attention to specific areas.

Properly aligned patterns can create a sense of continuity or grid, enhancing the spatial organization and allowing for greater visual coherence within the design. This aspect also contributes to the overall aesthetic quality of the paved area, affecting how users experience and interact with it.

While the size of plantings, use of colors, and material consistency play important roles in landscape design and can affect visual appeal, they do not primarily dictate the spatial character of paving. Instead, it's the alignment of the paving patterns that forms the backbone of how spaces are defined and experienced, making it the most critical factor in this context.