When it comes to designing patios and outdoor spaces, the materials we choose play a crucial role in how the final result both looks and performs. Stone remains a popular choice not only for its durability and longevity, but also for the variety of textures, colours, and styles it offers. Whether we’re working on a compact urban terrace or a spacious garden retreat, natural stone brings a sense of quality and permanence that’s difficult to match.
Over the years, we’ve worked with a wide range of stone types to suit different tastes, budgets, and practical requirements. Some clients are drawn to the rustic, weathered character of cobblestone, while others prefer the clean, contemporary lines of porcelain or the rich, textured look of riven indian sandstone, which has been very popular for the last 20 years. Every stone type has its own personality, and understanding the strengths and limitations of each can make all the difference in selecting the right one for your project. Below, we take a closer look at 10 popular types of stones used for patios and outdoor areas, based on our hands-on experience and client preferences.
1. Sandstone
Sandstone is widely used throughout the UK, especially in traditional garden designs. Its warm tones – from golden hues to greys and reds – and natural texture give a soft, welcoming appearance to patios. We’ve found that sandstone is easy to work with, allowing for custom shapes and layouts.
It looks great when wet, but does absorb water more readily than most other types of stone. Therefore, important to keep on top of annual maintenance to prevent black lichen growth. Sandstone is sedimentary, if pressure-washed too much, it can show signs of wear over time, particularly in high-traffic areas, but its affordability and aesthetic make it a solid choice for many outdoor projects.
2. Cobblestone
Cobblestones are an age-old favourite in the UK, especially in period or heritage properties. They provide a strong visual impact, creating an inviting, classic look that complements both formal and informal gardens. Typically made from granite or basalt, cobblestones are incredibly durable and can handle a great deal of traffic.
However, installation can be labour-intensive, and weeds may appear between the stones without regular maintenance. We recommend pairing cobblestones with proper edging and occasional weeding to keep the surface looking tidy.
3. Bluestone
Bluestone is known for its distinctive blue-grey tone and is commonly used in both traditional and modern patio schemes. It’s especially suited to outdoor spaces that experience a variety of weather conditions, as it resists wear and maintains its colour over time.
While highly durable, bluestone can heat up significantly in direct sunlight, which is something to bear in mind for barefoot use. We’ve found it works beautifully in shaded or partially covered patios and performs best when sealed periodically. Hugely popular in the United States of America.
4. Brick
Brick pavers provide a timeless, warm aesthetic and are often used in formal garden settings or alongside period architecture. Their natural clay composition and variety of earthy tones make them a versatile option for creating patterns and structured designs.
We always highlight the importance of maintenance as brick, moss and weeds can grow between the joints, and in freeze-thaw conditions, bricks can crack. However, with proper jointing, brick patios can last for many years and continue to look their best.
5. Porcelain
Porcelain paving slabs have seen a surge in popularity thanks to their low maintenance and sleek appearance. They’re manufactured to mimic natural stone, including granite and marble, while offering superior performance in terms of stain resistance and ease of cleaning.
Porcelain is non-porous and frost-resistant, making it ideal for the British climate. However, it can be difficult to cut without the right tools, so professional installation is usually necessary. For contemporary spaces or low-maintenance gardens, porcelain is very popular. Beware, it can be extremely slippery when wet and some have concerns over the longevity of these artificial slabs.
6. Granite
Granite is one of the most robust materials we work with, offering excellent resistance to scratching, heat, and heavy loads. Its natural speckled appearance adds sophistication and a modern edge to patios, particularly in polished or flamed finishes.
Installation can be costly due to the weight and cutting requirements. That said, for those seeking a long-lasting and premium finish, granite is well worth the investment.
7. Travertine
Travertine combines a classic look with good durability and a naturally non-slip texture. It’s particularly popular around pools and in sunnier parts of the UK because it remains cool underfoot and has a more refined appearance than concrete or brick.
Like all natural stone, Travertine is more sensitive to acidic substances, which can etch the surface. We recommend this stone for clients who want an upmarket look and are prepared to do the occasional upkeep to preserve its finish.
8. Marble
Marble is synonymous with elegance, and its veining and smooth surface create a refined look in any outdoor setting. It reflects light well, making shaded areas appear brighter and more spacious.
However, marble is softer and more porous than granite, which means it's more prone to staining and scratches. It’s not ideal for heavily used areas or places with a lot of rain. In our experience, marble is best used in decorative zones or for feature areas within a larger patio.
9. Concrete (Stamped or Plain)
While not a natural stone, concrete is a widely used alternative that deserves mention. It can be shaped, coloured, and textured to resemble stone, wood, or brick, offering a budget-friendly way to create attractive outdoor surfaces. Some of our clients are surprised at how realistic stamped concrete can look when done properly.
Concrete may be prone to cracking over time, particularly in areas with ground movement or severe frost. Still, it remains a practical choice for large areas or where budget constraints rule out higher-end materials.
10. Slate
Slate offers a distinctive textured surface with rich colour variations, including grey, green, blue, and even purples. As a metamorphic rock, it has excellent durability, making it suitable for British weather, where rain, frost, and general wear are common concerns. One of the things we appreciate about slate is its slip-resistance, which is ideal for safety in outdoor settings.
That said, slate can be brittle and may chip under heavy impact, so it’s best suited for areas with lighter footfall or where furniture won’t be dragged across the surface.
Choosing the Right Stone for Your Outdoor Space
In our experience, the best choice of stone depends on how you intend to use the space, your design preferences, and the level of maintenance you’re comfortable with. If you’re after something low-maintenance and contemporary, Indian sandstone or porcelain might suit you well. If you prefer a more natural, classic aesthetic, york stone, brick or cobblestone could be ideal.
