So Similar, So Different - Why Clay Block Paving and Porcelain Make Great Design (original) (raw)

Clay block paving has been used for centuries; outdoor porcelain only in recent years. Yet, together they make the perfect partnership. We explain why.

Delta Light Multi clay block paving makes a striking combination with Nuage, a wood-effect porcelain, in this textured garden by Floral and Hardy.

• Durability: Both clay pavers and porcelain are known for their durability and resistance to weathering, making them ideal for outdoor use in a garden design.
• Aesthetics: Clay pavers come in a range of colours, textures and shapes, providing a natural, earthy look, while porcelain outdoor paving has a crisp, modern appearance. Combining the two materials can create an interesting and visually appealing contrast in your garden design.
• Versatility: Clay block paving and porcelain can be used in a variety of ways - from paths and patios to retaining walls and borders. This versatility lets you create a unique, personalised garden design that suits your specific needs and tastes.

This Amersham clay block paving makes a dark and textural contrast with Ash Beige porcelain in a back garden patio by Bark Brick Block.

• Low-maintenance: Both clay pavers and porcelain are low-maintenance materials that do not require regular treatment or upkeep, making them ideal for busy gardeners or those who need a low-maintenance garden design.
• Slip Resistance: Clay pavers have a naturally slip-resistant surface, making them a good choice for walkways and patios. Porcelain is manufactured to the required slip-resistance for outdoor paving, providing reassurance in areas where water may be present.
• Earth Friendly: Clay pavers are the ultimate recyclable paving. And our Italian porcelain manufacturer uses a closed-loop system that recycles every drop of water, and recycles rejects and residual product materials.

Silver Grey Porcelain and Abbey Dark Multi Clay Pavers combine in a dramatic contrast in this design by Nic Howard for the David Harber trade stand at RHS Chelsea 2016.

These benefits don't just make putting clay block paving and porcelain together a long-lasting, attractive, low-maintenance and responsible choice for garden design. Clay pavers make it easy to create curved designs when you might not want the trouble of cutting into porcelain slabs, and the combination gives you design opportunities that other materials can't - rich colour, shape and textural contrasts.

For garden design ideas, take an in-depth look at garden combining Cotswold clay pavers and Venetian Beige porcelain and a design unified by Florence White porcelain and Stone Grey pavers.

And don't forget to explore our wide range of clay brick paving, and then have fun combining it with our porcelain colours.

Post updated: July 2024