Spring has sprung and summer is right around the corner, and that means that outdoor spaces are getting more use as the days get longer and the weather gets warmer.
While it might be too late to start work on your outdoor oasis for this summer, there’s no time like the present to get your wheels turning to renovate your outdoor space for next summer.
Whether you love a posh patio with a fire pit, an outdoor kitchen fit for a chef, or a luxurious pool, there’s no shortage of ways to design an inviting outdoor space. When it comes to making materials selections for your project, you’ll want to consider both form and function.
Natural stone offers versatility in both style and use. From pool copings, pavers and patios, to tile work, building accents, and counters, there’s no shortage of options for incorporating Natural stone into your space.
What to Consider when selecting materials for outdoor spaces
Think about the space you are working with. As far as design, consider how it flows with existing structures and materials, as well as the aesthetic you want for the final space. This will impact things like colors, finish selections, textures, and more.
When it comes to function, here are a few questions to ask:
- What elements will the materials be exposed to?
- How much sun or water will they come in contact with?
- What level of maintenance is required?
- Are they durable?
- And finally, what is the cost?
Options for using Natural Stone in Outdoor Spaces
Using Natural Stone in your design provides a durable, high-end finish and the application options are limitless. Here are just a few applications that have us feeling inspired to create a Natural Stone outdoor oasis.
We’re loving this modern limestone patio designed by Julie Farris is a stunning outdoor hideaway, nestled into a quiet backyard nook in Manhattan.
Get inspired by this light and bright pool featuring white limestone coping and stone accents.
Don’t have a huge space for a pool or outdoor garden patio? Check out this outdoor kitchen and grill area with natural stone counters and accents.
4 Reasons We Love Using Natural Stone
Durability: Check us out on Instagram and you’ll see some of the historic structures and long-standing buildings constructed with natural stone that continue to stand the test of time. When it comes to durability, these materials are literally made in the elements and can withstand a variety of wear and tear, making them a great long-term solution for outdoor structures, surfaces, and accents.
Care and Maintenance: When installing your stone, make sure to apply impregnators, if necessary, and do your research on the type of stone you have. Care and maintenance can be as simple as keeping the stone surfaces swept, and clean of debris and washing with soap and water for a deeper clean. The Natural Stone Institute offers a great guide for natural stone care, you can access it here.
Surface Temperature: When it comes to function, natural stone offers a great advantage over other materials, especially for pool decks and walkways. Natural stone takes much longer to heat up meaning they often have a lower surface temperature than other commonly used products like concrete, brick or vinyl decking.
Traction: Especially if you are selecting a material for a pool deck or patio for a waterfront home, you’ll want to consider the traction (or slip resistance) of the surface. This can be impacted by the physical texture of the stone (is it naturally smooth or does it have variations that create texture), as well as finish, and sometimes even by sealers or other coating products.
You can view our selection of natural stone products and learn more about our materials here.
