11 June 2025 - Splendour In Stone

Best Stone Paving Options for Landscaping Projects

Jordan H. on 11 June 2025

Stone paving can transform any outdoor space, adding durability, elegance, and practicality to your landscaping project. However, choosing the right type of stone is more than just about looks—it affects longevity, maintenance, and even safety.

The wrong choice could lead to excessive wear, slipperiness, or costly repairs. Not all stone pavers are created equal—some are perfect for high-traffic areas, while others thrive in poolside settings.

Whether after a timeless natural look or a modern, low-maintenance option, finding the best fit for your space is crucial. Let’s explore the best stone paving options and what makes them stand out.

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Best Stone Paving Options for Landscaping

The right stone paving can elevate your landscape, but which option suits your space best? Let’s break it down:

1. Bluestone Paving

Bluestone pavers are a popular choice for landscaping due to their durability and natural blue-grey tones. Their ability to withstand harsh weather conditions makes them ideal for patios, pathways, and pool surrounds. They can endure heavy foot traffic and varying climates with excellent weather resistance.

However, they are porous and require sealing to prevent water absorption and staining. Bluestone’s versatility complements modern and traditional designs, making it a timeless option for outdoor spaces.

2. Sandstone Paving

Sandstone pavers bring a warm, natural aesthetic to any landscape with their earthy hues and textured surface. Known for their excellent drainage properties, they are ideal for garden paths, courtyards, and outdoor entertaining areas.

While sandstone is easy to work with, it is a softer stone, making it more susceptible to wear over time. Regular sealing can help protect against erosion and staining, ensuring long-lasting beauty in outdoor environments.

3. Granite Paving

Known for its strength and longevity, granite is one of the most durable paving stones, making it perfect for high-traffic areas such as driveways and walkways. Its dense composition resists scratches, stains, and weathering, providing long-term durability with minimal maintenance.

Available in various finishes, including flamed and polished, granite pavers can suit different design styles. Although slightly more expensive than other options, their strength and longevity make them a worthwhile investment.

4. Limestone Paving

Limestone pavers offer a refined, elegant look with soft, neutral tones that blend seamlessly into landscaping designs. They are ideal for patios, pool areas, and alfresco spaces.

However, limestone is porous and requires sealing to prevent moisture absorption and discolouration. With proper care, limestone pavers provide a sophisticated and timeless touch to any outdoor setting.

5. Travertine Paving

Travertine pavers are a luxurious choice, known for their distinctive textured surface and natural holes. Their ability to remain cool underfoot makes them perfect for poolside areas and patios.

Available in shades of beige, cream, and silver, travertine adds an upscale feel to any landscape. Though durable, it requires occasional filling of natural pores and sealing to maintain its structure and prevent staining.

6. Porcelain Paving(Modern Alternative)

A modern alternative to natural stone, Porcelain paving offers a sleek and contemporary alternative to natural stone. Engineered for durability, they are highly resistant to stains, scratches, and moisture, making them a low-maintenance choice for outdoor spaces.

With a consistent finish and a wide range of colours and textures, they can mimic the appearance of natural stone while offering superior performance. Their non-porous nature makes them perfect for patios, terraces, and pathways with minimal upkeep.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Stone Paving

Choosing the right stone paving impacts durability, aesthetics, and long-term maintenance. Here are key factors to consider:

Durability & Weather Resistance: Some stones, like granite, withstand heavy traffic and extreme weather, while others, like sandstone, need more care.
Maintenance Requirements: Porous stones require sealing and regular cleaning, while porcelain is a low-maintenance option.
Aesthetic Appeal: Consider texture, colour, and finish to match your outdoor space’s design.
Cost & Installation: Some stones are easier to cut and install, while premium options like granite may have higher upfront costs.
Weight & Structural Compatibility: Ensure the chosen stone suits the surface on which it will be installed, especially for elevated areas.
Wear Resistance: Some surfaces wear down faster in high-traffic areas, requiring additional sealing or texturing.
Eco-Friendliness: Consider sustainable options or stones sourced responsibly to reduce environmental impact.
Heat Retention: Travertine stays cool underfoot, making it great for pool areas, while darker stones like bluestone absorb more heat.
Colour Longevity: Some stones, like limestone, can fade over time if not sealed properly.
Availability & Lead Time: Check stock availability and delivery times, especially for large-scale projects.

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Installation & Maintenance Tips for Stone Paving

Proper installation and maintenance ensure your stone paving remains durable and visually appealing for years. Follow these essential tips:

Installation Process for Stone Paving

Proper installation is crucial to ensuring the longevity and stability of stone paving. Follow these key steps:

1. Plan and Prepare the Site

Mark the area where the paving will be installed. Remove any grass, soil, or debris to create a level foundation. Ensure the space is measured correctly to avoid misalignment.

2. Excavate and Lay the Base

Dig to the required depth (typically 100–150mm) to allow for a solid foundation. Spread and compact a crushed rock base, followed by a layer of sand or mortar, ensuring proper drainage.

3. Lay the Pavers in Your Desired Pattern

Arrange the stone pavers according to the chosen pattern, leaving small gaps for jointing material. Check alignment frequently and use a rubber mallet to adjust uneven pavers.

4. Fill the Joints and Compact the Surface

Use sand, polymeric sand, or flexible grout to fill the joints and stabilise the pavers. Compact the entire surface with a plate compactor or manually press down to ensure even placement.

5. Seal the Paving (If Required)

For natural stone pavers like sandstone, limestone, and travertine, apply a high-quality sealant to protect against moisture, stains, and weathering. Allow the sealant to cure before use.

Adapt Maintenance to the Stone Type

Each type of stone paving requires a tailored maintenance approach to preserve its appearance and durability:

Granite: Extremely durable and low-maintenance. Occasional sealing enhances stain resistance, but it’s naturally tough against wear and weathering. Regular sweeping and water rinsing are usually enough.
Bluestone: Requires sealing to prevent water absorption and colour fading. Clean with mild soap and water to avoid surface deterioration. Avoid acidic cleaners as they can etch the stone.
Sandstone: Highly porous and prone to erosion. Needs frequent sealing and gentle cleaning with pH-neutral soap. Pressure washing should be done cautiously to prevent damage.
Limestone: Susceptible to staining and moisture absorption. Requires sealing to maintain its integrity. Avoid acidic or harsh chemical cleaners, as they can weaken the stone.
Travertine: Naturally porous with small holes that may need filling over time. Sealing is essential to prevent staining. Clean with warm water and mild soap to preserve its finish.
Porcelain Pavers: The easiest to maintain. Stain-resistant and non-porous, requiring no sealing. Simple cleaning with water or mild detergent keeps them looking new.

Conclusion

Enhance your landscaping with high-quality stone pavers that combine durability and elegance. Whether you’re upgrading a driveway, garden path, or pool area, Splendour in Stone offers a wide range of natural stone solutions to suit any project.

Our expert team is ready to help you find the perfect paving option for your space. Don’t settle for less. Invest in stone that lasts. Visit Splendour in Stone today and bring your vision to life!

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Natural Stone Finishes for Premium Residential Projects

Jordan H. on 11 June 2025

Natural stone is pivotal in high-end residential projects, offering a blend of timeless elegance, durability, and exclusivity. Natural stone elevates architectural design with its unique textures, rich colour variations, and unmatched longevity, whether used for facades, flooring, countertops, or outdoor spaces.

However, the stone’s finish is as important as the stone’s. The right finish enhances aesthetic appeal, functionality, and durability, ensuring that surfaces look stunning and complement the design vision.

From polished marble for sophisticated interiors to flamed granite for striking outdoor paving, selecting the perfect finish is crucial in crafting a luxurious and enduring living space.

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1. Polished Finish

A polished finish is the epitome of luxury, featuring a high-gloss surface that enhances the stone’s colour and veining. A mechanical buffing process achieves this effect, creating a mirror-like appearance.

It is popular for premium residential spaces, particularly for countertops, feature walls, and elegant flooring. Polished stone adds depth and vibrancy by amplifying light and creating a sense of openness.

Its smooth surface is easy to clean but requires regular maintenance to maintain its shine. While polished finishes highlight the richness of stone, they can show smudges and fingerprints more easily.

2. Honed Finish

A honed finish delivers a smooth, matte surface that enhances the natural beauty of stone without a high-gloss effect. It is ideal for those who prefer a refined yet understated look, as it softens the stone’s natural variations while maintaining a consistent texture.

This finish is commonly used for flooring, countertops, and walls in high-end residential projects. The process involves grinding the stone to a flat, satin-like surface, reducing reflections and highlighting natural tones.

It hides fingerprints and minor scratches better than polished finishes. Regular sealing is necessary to protect against moisture and stains, especially in high-use areas.

3. Leathered Finish

A leathered finish offers a textured yet refined look that enhances the natural beauty of the stone. Created by applying an abrasive technique to a honed surface, this finish brings out the stone’s organic details while maintaining a soft, touchable texture.

It is highly favoured for countertops, feature walls, and outdoor applications, adding depth without excessive shine. One of its key advantages is that it conceals fingerprints and water spots, making it easier to maintain.

Leathered finishes enhance darker stones by intensifying their colours and creating a rich, tactile surface. It pairs well with modern and industrial-style homes.

4. Brushed Finish

A brushed finish creates a naturally aged look by using wire brushes to distress the stone’s surface lightly. This technique enhances the stone’s texture while maintaining a smooth feel. The result is a slightly weathered appearance that works well in both rustic and contemporary designs.

Brushed stone is often used for flooring, accent walls, and exterior cladding, blending effortlessly with other natural materials. The finish highlights the stone’s veins and patterns, adding character and depth.

Over time, brushed stone develops a soft patina that enhances its charm. Occasional sealing and cleaning help maintain its appearance.

5. Flamed Finish

A flamed finish results in a rough, textured surface that exposes the stone to intense heat followed by rapid cooling. This process causes the minerals in the stone to burst, giving it a distinctive, slightly rugged appearance.

The finish enhances the stone’s colour, making it a striking option for exterior applications like patios, walls, and landscaping. While commonly used outdoors, flamed stone can also be incorporated into interior designs where a raw, natural aesthetic is desired.

Its rough texture adds depth and dimension, making it a bold design statement for contemporary architectural projects.

6. Sawn Finish

A sawn finish gives the natural stone a clean, contemporary appearance by cutting it with a diamond-tipped saw. This process produces a smooth but slightly rough texture with visible blade marks, adding an organic yet structured look.

It is commonly used for exterior walls, cladding, and architectural elements where a raw finish is desired. The sawn surface retains the stone’s natural colour without additional treatment, making it ideal for modern, industrial-style homes.

It offers a natural appeal while not as refined as polished or honed finishes. Periodic sealing is recommended to maintain its appearance.

7. Sandblasted Finish

A sandblasted finish gives natural stone a fine, textured surface that enhances its depth and character. This effect is achieved by blasting the stone with high-pressure sand, creating a subtle, grainy texture.

Sandblasted stone is often used for walls, facades, and architectural details, offering a contemporary yet organic aesthetic. The process slightly lightens the stone’s natural colour, revealing its intricate patterns.

While primarily chosen for outdoor use, it can also enhance indoor spaces with a softer, weathered look. Occasional cleaning helps maintain its appeal, making it a practical yet stylish finish.

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8. Tumbled Finish

A tumbled finish gives natural stone a worn, aged appearance, creating a timeless and rustic look. This finish is achieved by tumbling the stone with sand, water, and abrasives, which softens the edges and creates a subtly textured surface.

It is a favourite for flooring, patios, and decorative walls, where a relaxed, weathered aesthetic is desired. Tumbled stone blends beautifully with traditional, Mediterranean, and country-style homes, adding warmth and character.

The natural variations and rounded edges contribute to its charm. Over time, it develops a rich patina that enhances its beauty without extensive maintenance.

9. Split Face Finish

A split-face finish creates a bold, textured surface by mechanically splitting the stone along its natural layers. This process creates a rugged, three-dimensional look that adds depth and visual interest.

It is often used for feature walls, fireplaces, and cladding, where its dramatic texture can make a strong architectural statement. The interplay of light and shadow across the uneven surface enhances the stone’s natural beauty, making it a striking focal point.

Split face stone pairs well with sleek materials like glass and steel, creating contrast. It is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a bold, distinctive design.

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Project

Selecting the perfect stone finish can make or break your space’s overall aesthetic and functionality. Here are ten crucial factors to guide your decision.

Location & Application: Consider whether the stone will be used indoors or outdoors, as some finishes suit specific environments better.
Aesthetic Preference: Decide between glossy, matte, or textured finishes to match your design vision.
Stone Type: Different stones react differently to finishes; for example, marble polishes well, while sandstone looks best when honed.
Maintenance Requirements: Polished finishes may need frequent cleaning, while tumbled and brushed finishes require less upkeep.
Durability & Longevity: Ensure the finish can withstand wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas like flooring.
Light Reflection: Polished surfaces brighten interiors by reflecting light, whereas honed and leathered finishes absorb it for a softer ambience.
Colour Enhancement: Some finishes, like leathered or flamed, deepen the stone’s natural colour, making hues more pronounced.
Architectural Style: Choose a finish that aligns with the overall theme, whether modern, rustic, or classic.
Budget Constraints: Some finishes require more processing, increasing costs; honed and sawn finishes are typically more affordable.
Weather & Climate: Outdoor finishes should handle exposure to sun, rain, and temperature changes without losing appeal.

Why Natural Stone is the Ultimate Choice for Luxury Homes

Luxury isn’t just about design—it’s about timeless beauty, and nothing delivers that like natural stone. Here is why you should consider natural stones for your home:

Each slab is unique, offering distinct patterns, textures, and colours that enhance luxury interiors. Known for its durability, natural stone outlasts synthetic materials, making it ideal for high-end homes and boosting resale value.

Versatile in applications, it adds sophistication to floors, walls, countertops, and outdoor spaces. Eco-friendly and sustainable, stone requires minimal processing, reducing its environmental impact. It also elevates architectural design, adding a luxurious feel to spaces like staircases and feature walls.

Natural stone remains timeless, resisting trends and standing as a symbol of refinement for generations. With endless customisation options, stone can be shaped and finished to suit personal tastes.

Additionally, certain stones regulate temperature, keeping spaces comfortable year-round. Premium varieties like marble and granite elevate your home’s exclusivity and prestige.

Conclusion

Elevate your home with the timeless elegance of natural stone. Whether designing a grand entrance, a stunning feature wall, or a sophisticated outdoor space, the right stone finish can transform your vision into reality.

At Splendour in Stone, we offer an exclusive selection of premium natural stone crafted to bring luxury and durability to your home. Visit our showroom or explore our collection online to find the perfect stone for your next project. Experience quality, craftsmanship, and elegance—only at Splendour in Stone.

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Travertine Tiles for Patios: Are They Worth It?

Jordan H. on 11 June 2025

Choosing the right tiles for your patio can be tricky. You want something beautiful, practical, and built to last, but not every option ticks all three boxes. Travertine tiles often stand out for their natural charm, rich texture, and resort-style finish. They’re undeniably elegant, but are they worth the investment?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the benefits, potential drawbacks, comparisons with other materials, and whether travertine tiles truly earn their place in your outdoor space.

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What Are Travertine Tiles?

Travertine is a type of natural stone formed by mineral deposits from hot springs and limestone caves. Over time, this slow formation process gives travertine its unique porous surface, soft veining, and warm, earthy character. It’s been used in architecture for centuries, from ancient Roman buildings to modern-day patios.

Travertine is typically quarried from countries like Turkey and Italy, where large blocks of stone are extracted and cut into tiles. These tiles are then finished in different ways, such as tumbled for a textured, aged look or honed for a smooth, matte surface. Each finish creates a different aesthetic and slip rating, which is especially important for outdoor use.

When used in patios, travertine tiles often come in shades of beige, ivory, walnut, silver, and gold. Their natural variation means no two tiles are exactly the same, adding a sense of authenticity and timeless appeal to any outdoor space.

Benefits of Using Travertine for Patios

Want your patio to look elegant and stay cool underfoot? Travertine delivers beauty, durability, and comfort in one natural package.

Stays Cool in the Heat: Travertine’s natural composition helps it stay noticeably cooler underfoot, ideal for Aussie summers and barefoot living.
Timeless Aesthetic Appeal: Its warm tones and natural variation create a sophisticated, high-end look that never goes out of style.
Highly Durable: When sealed properly, travertine handles foot traffic, UV exposure, and the elements without cracking or discolouring.
Increases Property Value: A travertine patio adds prestige and visual appeal to your home, boosting its desirability and potential market value.
Natural Drainage Properties: The stone’s porous structure allows water to drain through, helping to reduce puddles and surface runoff.
Low Glare Finish: Unlike some shiny surfaces, travertine has a soft, matte appearance that won’t reflect harsh sunlight into your outdoor space.
Blends Seamlessly With Landscaping: Travertine complements natural elements like greenery, timber, and stone walls, making it easy to create a cohesive outdoor design.
Eco-Friendly Material: As a natural stone, travertine involves minimal processing and no harsh chemicals, making it a sustainable choice.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

While travertine brings beauty and charm outdoors, it’s worth knowing the limitations before committing to your patio investment:

Requires Regular Sealing: Travertine is porous, so sealing is essential to protect it from stains, moisture absorption, and weather damage.
Can Be Prone to Etching: Acidic substances like citrus juice or harsh cleaners may cause dull spots or marks if not cleaned up promptly.
Higher Upfront Cost: Compared to porcelain or concrete, travertine tiles can be more expensive to purchase and install, especially for larger areas.
Vulnerable to Harsh Freeze-Thaw Conditions: In colder regions, moisture inside the stone can cause cracks when it expands during freeze-thaw cycles, though this is less of a concern in most parts of Australia.
Colour Variation May Not Suit Everyone: While variation is part of its charm, some homeowners may prefer the uniformity of manufactured tiles.
Softer Than Some Other Natural Stones: Although durable, travertine is softer than granite or bluestone and may chip if heavy objects are dropped on it.

Design Styles That Suit Travertine Patios

Whatever your style, travertine adapts effortlessly, blending elegance and warmth into everything from rustic retreats to coastal escapes. Here are the Design Styles That Suit Travertine Patios section:

1. Mediterranean and Tuscan-Inspired Gardens

Travertine’s natural tones and aged textures are a perfect match for Mediterranean and Tuscan-style outdoor spaces. Pair it with terracotta pots, wrought iron details, and lush greenery like olive trees or lavender. The stone’s warm hues and timeless finish evoke the charm of sun-drenched courtyards and classic European villas.

2. Modern-Coastal with Light Tones and Minimal Joins

For a breezy, contemporary coastal look, use ivory or silver travertine tiles with tight grout lines and a honed finish. These tones reflect natural light beautifully and pair well with whitewashed timber, glass balustrades, and ocean-inspired décor. The result is a clean, airy patio that feels effortless and relaxed.

3. Rustic Outdoor Areas with Timber and Textured Finishes

Travertine complements rustic design with its raw, unpolished appearance. Use tumbled travertine alongside reclaimed timber beams, rough stone walls, and earthy accents to create a warm, inviting outdoor area. The imperfections in the stone add to the natural charm and casual elegance of the space.

4. Poolside Patios with Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow

Travertine is ideal for pool surrounds thanks to its cool touch and slip-friendly finishes. Choose lighter shades to reduce glare and continue the flooring indoors for a seamless transition. Add modern loungers and greenery to complete a resort-style retreat that’s both practical and luxurious.

5. Hamptons-Style Entertaining Spaces

White and beige travertine tiles work beautifully in Hamptons-style patios, especially when paired with navy furnishings, wicker furniture, and manicured hedging. The soft texture underfoot and neutral palette help create a relaxed, refined entertaining space suited to long summer lunches and weekend gatherings.

6. Contemporary Courtyards with Clean Lines

In urban homes or minimalist builds, travertine in large-format tiles can deliver a sleek and polished look. Combine with architectural planters, sharp angles, and charcoal finishes for contrast. The natural stone adds warmth and softness to otherwise hard-edged, structured outdoor designs.

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Travertine vs Other Patio Tile Materials

Not sure if travertine is the right fit? Compare it side-by-side with other popular patio options before you decide.

Feature/Material	Travertine	Porcelain Tiles	Concrete Pavers	Bluestone
Appearance	Natural, earthy tones with texture	Uniform, available in various colours	Simple, often plain or stamped	Rich blue-grey with fine texture
Heat Retention	Stays cool underfoot	Can heat up in direct sunlight	Warmer surface, especially in summer	Moderate heat retention
Durability	Very durable when sealed properly	Extremely durable and low maintenance	Fairly durable, may crack over time	Highly durable and dense
Maintenance	Requires regular sealing and gentle care	Very low maintenance	Needs resealing and cleaning	Needs sealing to avoid water stains
Cost	Higher-end natural stone	Mid-range to high, depending on design	Typically, the most affordable	Mid to high, depending on cut
Aesthetic Versatility	Timeless and organic look	Available in many modern styles	More utilitarian or rustic	Elegant and natural appearance
Eco-Friendliness	Natural and minimally processed	Manufactured with a higher energy input	Often made from cement and dyes	Natural but heavy to transport

Installation & Maintenance Tips

Get the most out of your travertine patio; proper installation and care will protect its beauty for years to come:

Hire a Professional Installer: Travertine requires precise handling and levelling. A qualified installer will ensure proper base preparation and seamless tile alignment.
Use the Right Substrate: Lay tiles on a stable, well-compacted base, such as concrete or crushed rock with a mortar bed, for long-lasting performance.
Seal the Tiles After Installation: Apply a penetrating sealer to protect against water, stains, and outdoor grime. Re-seal every 1–2 years, depending on exposure.
Choose a Neutral Cleaner: Avoid acidic or abrasive products. Instead, use pH-neutral cleaners specifically designed for natural stone to maintain the surface finish.
Rinse and Sweep Regularly: Keep the surface free of dirt, leaves, and debris to prevent staining or etching over time.
Fill Holes if Needed: Travertine’s naturally porous structure may develop surface holes. Fill with a matching stone filler to maintain a smooth, safe surface.
Inspect Grout and Edges Annually: Check for cracks or loosened joints, especially after wet seasons and repair promptly to prevent damage from spreading.

Why Buy Travertine Tiles from Splendour In Stone?

When it comes to travertine, quality matters and at Splendour In Stone, we don’t compromise. Our tiles are hand-selected for their consistency, durability, and natural beauty, ensuring your patio not only looks stunning but also stands the test of time. With a wide range of finishes available, from tumbled to honed, we make it easy to find a style that suits your outdoor space.

What sets us apart is more than just premium stone. Our team offers personalised, expert advice to guide your selection, whether you’re designing a small courtyard or a large entertaining area.

With convenient Australia-wide delivery and the option to visit our showroom or request samples, we’re here to help you create a functional and effortlessly elegant outdoor space.

Conclusion

Travertine tiles offer a rare blend of natural beauty, comfort underfoot, and long-term durability, making them an excellent choice for patios that aim to impress. While they may come at a higher initial cost, the aesthetic payoff and timeless appeal make them well worth the investment for those seeking a truly elevated outdoor space.

Are you thinking of upgrading your patio? Visit Splendour in Stone to browse our premium travertine tile collection or chat with our specialists today.

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