Looking to uplift your outdoor space? New outdoor paving can be on the wish list for many because of how it adds functionality and aesthetics to your space. But before you embark on your outdoor transformation, it’s important to consider the best patio paving for your area. Today we’re delving into creative patio paving concepts to help you decide on paver or tile selection, layout and so much more!
Keep reading for designer tips on what you need to consider regarding the size, shape, and style of your patio, as well as the materials to use. It’s a good thing that Apollo patios in Sydney is now offering a variety of patio paving solutions that are not only practical but also aesthetically pleasing. Here are some creative ideas for your patio paving project.
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Start with a precise plan
All good design starts with a plan and this rings just as true outside the home as it does indoors! So before diving into the selection of pavers or outdoor tiles, start with a concrete design vision for your space. Our tip is to sketch the layout on paper, capturing not just the aesthetic but also the precise measurements of the area. Accurate dimensions are crucial when selecting materials, as it influences the number and complexity of necessary cuts, which in turn affects both the budget and the final look of your patio.
Opt for large pavers in light hues to amplify space
Want to know an interior designer flooring secret to making a space feel larger? It’s to use large format pavers or tiles in lighter shades. The seamless appearance of fewer joins creates a more expansive feel in compact patio spaces. Lighter tiles or pavers also bounce light so they won’t just create the illusion of a larger area but also enhance the brightness and open feel of your outdoor haven.
If budget allows, selecting flooring in a natural stone such as travertine is well worth the investment. The natural variation of stone will further uplift your space, adding instant luxe!
Assess paving features to align with lifestyle
When delving into the details of patio products, it’s essential to weigh the features of your pavers or outdoor tiles against your lifestyle needs. Are you seeking materials with high slip resistance for safety, especially when wet? Perhaps the durability to resist scratches and scuffs is a priority in a high-traffic area. Or if you love to entertain, you may be more drawn to porcelain tiles over natural stone pavers to avoid staining and to make cleanup after gatherings a breeze.
Another thing to consider is how exposed your outdoor flooring will be to the elements. As well as considering a durable material, you’ll also want to select one that will stay cool to the touch. No one wants a gorgeous outdoor space that’s unbearable to walk on!
Consider your outdoor space and what’s most important to you so you can select a flooring material that achieves both style and functionality.
Create seamless indoor-outdoor transition
Achieving a seamless indoor-outdoor transition has never been easier thanks to the wide range of tiles that are now available in matte or semi-polished and external finishes. It means you can literally use the same tile indoors and out, just with different finishes. This is something we did at one of our recent kitchen renovation projects that opened to a patio and it created a sense of a larger space.
You don’t have to match your indoor and outdoor flooring materials perfectly to achieve this seamless transition. Look for materials that complement each other well, such as with matching undertones. This will still help to blur the boundaries between inside and out, providing a harmonious transition that visually expands your living spaces and creates a cohesive aesthetic.
Harmonise beyond the patio: Match walls and pool coping
You can take this idea of harmonising spaces one step further by looking beyond your patio. For example, if you have an outdoor pool or path leading through your garden, or even retaining walls, these surfaces could also be finished in similar materials. Consistency and repetition are an effortless way to achieve a designer look without necessarily having to spend big.
Extra tip: if you plan to install a serene poolside or refine its current design, search for pavers that offer matching pool coping options, like bullnose or drop face styles.
Integrate paving for cohesion with nature
Another aspect of your outdoor design where you may want to achieve cohesion is with nature. For example, you could design a pathway with stepping stones or paves through your garden. This can be a great way of linking your outdoor entertaining zone with your garden beyond.
As we mentioned above, even small repetition of materials can have a big impact. By using pavers as your lawn edging or garden retaining wall, it will lead your eye across the entire outdoor space. It’s a way of directing movement while highlighting your landscaping, not to mention simplifying lawn maintenance.
Elevate with vertical greenery and diverse planters
An idea we love is to carry your greenery upwards. This can really create the sense of an outdoor oasis and adds visual interest to your space. Do this by creating vertical garden walls or creating garden beds at varying heights. You can get creative with artful arrangements of varied planter sizes strategically positioned to soften corners and add depth. It’s a fab way to bring an organic touch to your outdoor sanctuary.
This design trick is especially useful for people with limited outdoor spaces as you can save valuable floor space while still creating a sense of lushness. There’s often so much under-utilised vertical space in small outdoor areas so don’t make this landscaping mistake!
Utilise retaining wall blocks for versatile seating solutions
We’re all about multifunctional design so when you’re mapping out your space, consider how you may use the area for different occasions. Will you bring out a fire pit in the cooler months? Are you likely to entertain often? Then perhaps creating wider retaining walls that also serve as bench seating would be beneficial. This approach not only maximises the functionality of your outdoor space but also provides an added layer of convenience and comfort for entertaining and relaxation.
Consider designing a feature that includes a garden bed or even builds in a barbecue area, that naturally accommodates family and guests.
Enhance the ambience with strategic patio lighting
Finally, to give your patio that magical ambience that only lighting can achieve, consider where you can integrate lighting into your outdoor design. Choose lighting options that align with the atmosphere you want to create, whether it’s for hosting lively gatherings or unwinding with your favourite novel. Soft, warm lights can add a cosy touch, whereas brighter, more focused lights are ideal for highlighting outdoor features like lighting up a tree or illuminating an outdoor sculpture.
Solar-powered lights nestled in landscape features offer an environmentally friendly way to illuminate pathways, while string lights overhead exude a festive vibe. By mixing functional and decorative light sources, you can craft an enchanting outdoor environment that brings your patio to life after dusk.
We hope these creative patio paving ideas have given you some inspo for your next project. Do you have any questions or tips to add? Pop a comment below.
