Patio Season in Full Swing…
Patio Trends This Summer: Choosing the Right Slab Style & Grout Colour for Your North Devon Garden
Summer is in full swing across North Devon, and it's been one of our busiest seasons yet. We've been transforming gardens with beautiful new patios, helping homeowners create outdoor spaces that are perfect for relaxing, entertaining, and making the most of the sunshine.
One of the questions we're asked most often is:
"Which patio slabs and grout colours should I choose?"
The answer depends on the look you're trying to achieve, but here are some of the most popular combinations we're installing this summer.
Porcelain Patios – The Modern Favourite
Porcelain paving continues to be one of the most requested options, and it's easy to see why.
It offers:
A sleek, contemporary appearance.
Low maintenance with minimal staining.
Excellent durability in all weather.
A wide choice of colours and finishes.
Grey porcelain remains incredibly popular for modern homes, while warmer beige and cream tones are becoming increasingly sought after for coastal properties around North Devon.
Natural Stone – Timeless Character
For homeowners wanting a more traditional feel, natural sandstone and limestone remain fantastic choices.
Every slab is unique, creating a patio full of natural texture and character. These materials blend beautifully with cottage gardens and rural properties throughout the area.
Natural stone develops its own character over time, giving your garden a patio that feels established and full of charm.
Does Grout Colour Really Matter?
Absolutely.
The grout is often overlooked, but it can completely change the finished appearance of your patio.
Light Grey Grout
A great all-round choice that complements most porcelain colours. It creates a clean, modern finish without drawing attention away from the paving.
Dark Grey or Charcoal Grout
Perfect for darker porcelain slabs. It gives a bold contemporary look while helping to disguise everyday dirt between joints.
Buff or Sand-Coloured Grout
Ideal for sandstone and warm-toned paving, creating a softer, more natural finish that blends beautifully with traditional gardens.
Matching vs Contrasting
Some homeowners prefer the grout to blend seamlessly with the slabs, while others like the joints to stand out and define each individual paving stone.
Neither is right or wrong—it simply comes down to personal style.
Larger Slabs Are Becoming More Popular
We've noticed a growing trend towards larger-format paving.
Sizes such as 900 x 600mm create:
Fewer joints.
A cleaner overall appearance.
The illusion of a larger garden.
This works particularly well in smaller outdoor spaces where simplicity helps make the area feel more open.
Which Patio Style Is Best for Your Garden?
When choosing your patio, think about:
The style of your home.
How much maintenance you're happy to do.
The amount of sunlight your garden receives.
Whether you'll be entertaining or simply creating a relaxing space.
A patio should complement your home and lifestyle—not just follow the latest trend.
Our Summer Projects
This summer we've been installing a fantastic variety of patios across North Devon, from contemporary porcelain entertaining areas to traditional sandstone terraces designed to blend naturally into established gardens.
Every project is different, and that's what we enjoy most. Taking the time to understand how you'll use your outdoor space helps us recommend the right paving, grout colour and layout for lasting results.
Thinking About a New Patio?
If you're planning to upgrade your garden this year, we'd be happy to help.
Whether you've already chosen your paving or need advice on slab styles, grout colours and design ideas, we can guide you through the options and create a patio that's both practical and beautiful for years to come.
We are a small, family run business based in North Devon, with over ten years of experience working within all aspects of the building trade. We know it can seem a complicated business, but we’re here to help - click here to get in touch.