Hooray, we’re all still enjoying the sunshine, although with Glastonbury and Wimbledon upon us it could all very easily change in typically British fashion! We’re not sure about you be we’re always keeping an eye on the forecast when the garden accessories are moved outside. Is the furniture really weatherproof and is it ok to leave the cushions outside overnight? Or is it a mad dash to collect them at 2am in the morning when it sounds as if it might be raining? Either way, enough worrying about that for now – to celebrate the current good weather, here are some more of our very excellent outdoor tiling suggestions …
Hooray, we’re all still enjoying the sunshine, although with Glastonbury and Wimbledon upon us it could all very easily change in typically British fashion! We’re not sure about you be we’re always keeping an eye on the forecast when the garden accessories are moved outside. Is the furniture really weatherproof and is it ok to leave the cushions outside overnight? Or is it a mad dash to collect them at 2am in the morning when it sounds as if it might be raining? Either way, enough worrying about that for now – to celebrate the current good weather, here are some more of our very excellent outdoor tiling suggestions …
Light Enhancing
Merlot Bone Porcelain Outdoor Slabs are very simple and will enhance any outdoor entertaining space. The pale shade of Bone looks good in contrast with black or dark grey door joinery, and is a striking contrast against regular brickwork as well. These porcelain slabs measure 895mm x 595mm and also come in two grey shades, Graphite and Grey. The matt surface means they have the appearance of very traditional paving slabs, and will look good for years to come.
Silver Style
Our Ohio Outdoor Silver Grey Porcelain Slabs are a firm favourite, and add an element of long-lasting style to the outdoor entertaining space. These porcelain slabs are designed to replicate real granite, and the large format, which is 900mm x 600mm, means that they can be positioned in a way to emphasise the width or the length of the garden area. Going for the Silver Grey option creates a contrast between white beds and planters, as well as looking good paired with timber fencing. For help with planning and installing large format tiles, click here for advice.
In Detail
We’re extremely proud of all our tile choices and sometimes just want to say to our clients ‘look at the detail!’. So here’s a close-up of our Basalto Graphite Modular Outdoor porcelain tiles, which are designed to replicate natural stone. Basalto Graphite is supplied in a project pack, which will cover an area of up to 19 square metres, and comprises a mixture of sizes.
Beautiful in Beige
And here’s the Beige version of our Basalto Beige Modular Outdoor Slab Tiles … As can be seen, the variety of sizes allows unique installation patterns to be created. Tiles are supplied in a project pack, which includes 18 tiles of each of these sizes – 600mm x 900mm, 600mm x 600mm and 600mm x 300mm. Plenty of opportunity for creativity!
Gorgeous in Grey
It’s Basalto again, this time it’s the Grey version, and these Basalto Grey Modular Outdoor Tiles have an impressive amount of detail and variation, creating a very appealing, natural look. Reminiscent of both slate and granite, these tiles are designed to replicate natural stone, and come in project packs, as mentioned previously.
All Neat & Tidy
Once the new terrace is finished, planted and all the outdoor accessories have been put into place, there is that question of ‘where does it all live’ at the end of each evening soiree. A designated storage box is highly recommended for all the cushions and throws, otherwise the kitchen or utility/boot room tends to be designated the unofficial storage spot. This is the Kensington Collection Rattan Cushion Storage Box from Bridgman – a worthwhile investment to keep the outdoor furnishings out of sight but within reach.
On the Way Up
Designing a new terrace, patio or balcony is really just the first part of the job! Once it’s been laid, there is generally a space to fill, or at least, to style or decorate. Once the garden has been cleared to prepare for the new tiles or slabs, that alone makes the available space appear much larger. So, in many cases it’s time to include some extras. Professional landscapers and gardeners like the idea of adding height to a scheme. These planters and display ideas from Garden Trading illustrate the concept perfectly. On the left is the Garden Trading Foxmore Raised Planter – not just a planter, but it has a shelf for a little bit of storage, too.
Perfectly Patterned
Our Castleford Grey Slate Effect Outdoor tiles are patterned, measure 600mm x 600mm and will add an element of interest to a new terrace. The swirling patterns are a replication of genuine slate and granite, with beautiful colour variations. We think these are a great contrast against super-modern, angular outdoor furniture …
Is it Wood?
For many people, wood is their first choice for an outdoor deck-style terrace. But as we know, timber decking can need an awful lot of maintenance … Which is why we are very happy to show you our Nebraska Oak Outdoor Planks. Each porcelain tile is designed to look exactly like real wood, and yes, also comes in other shades and colour variations, including Elm and Maple for a lighter, sun-bleached look. Each tile is 1200mm x 300mm so it’s a great way of getting that ‘decked’ look.
Gold Standard
Create a stylish and welcoming look by adding an outdoor rug to the new terrace – it’s the little touches that make a difference. This is the Sydney Outdoor Rug in Gold Cream, available from Cuckooland.
Golden Inspiration
If you’re thinking of moving away from the ever-popular grey colour choices for your new project, may we suggest the new Surface Outdoor Sand Porcelain Slabs. Each measure 600mm x 600mm and they give a crisp, light, spacious and sophisticated look to the new space. The Sand colour option is a great choice to give a warmer look, perhaps reminiscent of summer holidays …
Elegantly Presented
Add a finishing touch to a new outdoor space in the form of these Antique Brass Urn Planters from Lime Lace. Suitable for indoors and outdoors, a display will add that all-important height and texture to a garden display.
Will you be opting for any of these outdoor living ideas in your next exterior revamp? If so then we’d love to see your photos – hit us up on Twitter tagging @TileMountainUK or on Instagram!
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Linda has worked as a freelance interiors writer and blogger for many years; she has written for most of the major home and design magazines, including KBB Magazine, Grand Designs, Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Period Homes and Good Homes. She made the break and moved from London back to her home town of Shrewsbury three years ago and has just finished renovating her house. She also works in an interior design studio, produces copy for brochures and website, tries to tame her garden, aims to finish all the home furnishing projects she has on the go … and loves walking.
