Pave the way…
With such a wide range of garden flooring options available, it can be difficult to know where to begin. The right choice can define the character of a space, influence how it is used, and provide the foundation upon which the entire design sits. Here are three of my favourite materials, each versatile enough to work across a wide variety of garden schemes.
Porcelain has become a popular choice for contemporary garden flooring. Its ability to seamlessly connect interior and exterior spaces—by matching indoor tiles with outdoor surfaces—creates a strong sense of flow between home and garden. The clean lines and even texture of porcelain offer a minimalist aesthetic, making it an ideal backdrop for planting. Unlike natural stone, porcelain is non-porous, meaning it does not retain moisture, fade, or discolour, and it performs well in extreme temperature changes. Low maintenance, easy to clean, slip-resistant, and exceptionally durable, it is a practical as well as stylish option. Available in an extensive range of colours and finishes—including concrete, wood, stone, marble, and slate effects—porcelain offers almost endless design possibilities. When laid in large formats, it can visually expand a patio, seating area, or pool surround, especially when softened by relaxed planting that spills gently over its edges.
A timeless and classic paving choice, clay pavers bring warmth and character to gardens of all styles, from contemporary to traditional. Their natural tones sit comfortably alongside a wide range of architectural settings, making them both versatile and enduring, while their inherent durability ensures they age beautifully over time. Available in an extensive palette—from soft greys, buffs, and taupes to rich browns, terracottas, and deep plum reds—and offered in a variety of textures, formats, and laying patterns, clay pavers provide almost limitless design potential. With softly tumbled edges and subtle surface variation, they are particularly striking when laid in a classic herringbone or chevron bond, creating a statement path or seating area that feels inviting and grounded, and forms a richly textured backdrop to planting.
Durable, slip-resistant, and easy to maintain, composite decking makes a striking and practical choice for garden flooring. Engineered from a blend of recycled wood fibres and plastics, it captures the grain, warmth, and texture of natural timber without the associated drawbacks of warping, rotting, or regular upkeep. Whether used as a pathway weaving through densely planted borders or as a patio or seating area, composite decking offers both aesthetic appeal and long-term performance, making it a popular option that will stand the test of time.
