Creating a seamless transition from inside to outside living spaces has grown more popular in recent years. Our natural stone and porcelain paving is perfect for creating this look, and the majority of our collection makes this possible.
Natural stone really sets the tone in a kitchen, before leading outside into the garden. Trending in 2018 is grey marble. It makes for a striking worktop and flooring in a modern home, which leads seamlessly into the garden. In contrast, a colourful blend of sandstone finishes off the cottage look, creating a welcoming indoor/outdoor atmosphere.
Internal porcelain has some different features to external: it is thinner than external porcelain at 10mm thick making it easier to accommodate specifications of the home. It is also smoother in texture, while maintaining anti-slip qualities, for a pleasant feel underfoot. Stepping into the garden, the texture of the paving changes. The porcelain provides anti slip qualities more in line with outside factors.
Due to its low absorption of moisture, porcelain is the perfect worktop. It suits walling and flooring for outdoor kitchen and eating areas. Splashes of fat on the worktop, wine spills on the ground and general foody leftovers will not soak into the porcelain. This means it is easier to clean and maintain before, during and after cooking. We are particularly fond of the Latte porcelain paving from the Toscana range.
If it’s natural stone you’re after, granite and marble do not absorb as much moisture as much as other stones and are easier to clean if there are any accidents whilst preparing food and cooking.
Single sized paving which started in contemporary gardens have now expanded into traditional designs.
Porcelain started off as the trend setter when it came to large format paving. It easily meets the demands of those that are looking to update their garden landscape, particularly the Toscana and Siena ranges.
Natural Premium Sandstone is paving the way for the large format look, especially with its neutral colours or Mint, York Green and Buff Brown, combining the traditional natural stone with the contemporary large format. Our beautiful slate collection also comes in large format and is ideal for both internal and external use.
There is also an increasing demand for finishing pieces, such as cladding and setts and bespoke designer features in porcelain.
2018 has set the trend for the gardens of the future. With the 2020’s just around the corner, a modern twist of the 1920’s is back in fashion. Asymmetrical paving shapes are emerging, paying homage to the art deco designs from the 20’s. The sharp angles are complemented by soft planting, making these the landscapes for now and the future.
Both natural stone and porcelain can be cut to suit this stunning ‘2018 crazy paving meets 1920’s art deco’.
Gravel and pebbles are the perfect partner for paving right now, a trend that works for both natural stone and porcelain.
Natural gravel or pebbles against natural stone finishes off a traditional garden with a ‘soft-focus’, completing any quintessentially English garden.
For a contemporary look with porcelain (especially if there’s a contrast in colour), both assist with draining water and contributes to the minimal maintenance alongside the porcelain paving.
With currently on trend succulent plants such as cacti, there’s even less of a need to spend the weekends pruning and more time enjoying your garden.