Beige is the New Grey
Beige is the New Grey
Every season we see garden and landscaping trends that are more obvious than others. Previously we saw the rise and popularity of Grey Paving for those who preferred an understated and modern look. However, we have observed an increasing interest in Beige and Cream Paving slabs in the past few years.
Here at Stone Zone, we are proud to offer a wide range of Beige and Cream Porcelain Paving slabs that are perfect for indoor and outdoor areas. Ranging from affordable options for new homeowners to our range of luxurious porcelain paving stones which will enable you to create stunning feature areas in your property.
Why Choose Beige Porcelain Paving?
Beige paving is popular for several reasons, primarily due to its aesthetic appeal, versatility, and practical benefits. Here are some of the key reasons why beige paving is a favoured choice for outdoor spaces:
Neutral Aesthetic
Beige is a neutral colour that blends well with a variety of architectural styles and landscaping elements. It provides a clean, timeless look that can complement both modern and traditional designs.
Versatility
Beige paving can be used in different settings, from patios and driveways to garden paths and pool surrounds. Its versatility makes it a go-to choice for homeowners and designers looking to create cohesive outdoor spaces.
Reflects Heat
Lighter colours like beige reflect more sunlight than darker colours, which helps keep the paved surfaces cooler. This is particularly beneficial in hot climates, making outdoor areas more comfortable to walk on during the summer.
Beige paving can help disguise dust, dirt, and minor stains better than darker colours, reducing the frequency and intensity of cleaning needed to maintain its appearance.
Enhanced Lighting
Lighter paving materials can enhance the natural light in an outdoor area, making spaces feel brighter and more open. This can be especially advantageous for smaller or shaded gardens.
Resale Value
Neutral tones like beige are generally more appealing to potential buyers, making beige paving a smart investment that can improve the resale value of a property.
Compatibility with Various Materials
Beige pavers can be paired effectively with a range of other materials, such as brick, stone, wood, and metal, allowing for creative and cohesive design solutions.
Eco-Friendly Options
Many beige pavers are available in eco-friendly materials, such as permeable concrete or recycled composites, which contribute to sustainable landscaping practices.
Beige Paving for Your Home and Garden
Beige is a popular colour for homes due to its versatility, timelessness, and the various practical and aesthetic benefits it offers. Here are some key reasons why beige is favoured in home design:
Aesthetic Appeal
- Neutral Palette: Beige is a neutral colour that provides a calm and soothing backdrop. It can easily blend with other colours, making it a flexible choice for interior and exterior design.
- Timelessness: Unlike trendier colours that may quickly go out of style, beige has a classic, enduring quality that remains appealing over time. This makes it a safe choice for long-term investments like home exteriors and large interior spaces.
- Warmth and Comfort: Beige tones can make a space feel warm and inviting. They add a sense of cosiness without being overpowering, creating a comfortable atmosphere in living areas, bedrooms, and other spaces.
Practical Benefits
Light Reflection: Beige reflects natural light well, helping to brighten up spaces and make rooms appear larger and more open. This is particularly beneficial in smaller or darker rooms.
Disguises Dirt: Beige can effectively hide dust, dirt, and minor imperfections better than darker colours, making it a practical choice for busy households or high-traffic areas.
Easy to Accessorize: Beige provides a versatile backdrop that allows for easy updates with different accents, furnishings, and decor. Homeowners can change the look and feel of a room without needing to repaint or make major changes to the primary colour scheme.
Versatility in Design
Compatibility with Various Styles: Beige works well with a variety of architectural styles, from traditional to contemporary. It can complement rustic, modern, minimalist, or eclectic designs effortlessly.
Foundation for Accents: Beige walls or exteriors serve as a perfect foundation for colourful or bold accents. It allows homeowners to experiment with different textures, patterns, and colours in furniture, artwork, and accessories.
Resale Value
Broad Appeal: Beige has broad appeal, which can be advantageous when selling a home. Potential buyers are more likely to appreciate a neutral palette, making it easier for them to envision their own furnishings and personal style in the space.
Marketability: Homes with beige interiors and exteriors often appear more marketable and attractive in real estate listings and showings, contributing to a quicker sale and potentially higher resale value.
Psychological Impact
Calming Effect: Beige is known for its calming and relaxing effect, which can contribute to a more peaceful and serene living environment. This can be particularly beneficial in bedrooms, living rooms, and other areas meant for relaxation.
Versatile Mood Setting: Depending on the undertones and the complementary colors used, beige can create different moods—from warm and cozy to fresh and airy.
In summary, beige's popularity in home design stems from its aesthetic flexibility, practical advantages, and broad appeal, making it an ideal choice for various applications in both interiors and exteriors.
Maintaining Beige Paving Slabs
Maintaining beige porcelain paving involves regular cleaning and some preventive measures to ensure it stays looking its best. Here's a detailed guide on how to properly care for your beige porcelain paving:
Regular Cleaning
Sweeping: Regularly sweep the paving with a soft-bristle broom to remove loose dirt, leaves, and debris. This prevents buildup that can cause stains or scratches.
Washing: Use a garden hose to wash away dirt and dust. For a more thorough cleaning, mix a mild detergent with water and use a soft brush or mop to clean the surface. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
Dealing with Stains
Mild Stains: For light stains, mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap. Apply the solution with a sponge or soft cloth, scrub gently, and then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Stubborn Stains: For tougher stains, such as oil or grease, use a porcelain-safe cleaner. Apply the cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions, scrub gently with a soft brush, and rinse well.
Avoid Abrasive Tools: Never use abrasive scrubbers or steel wool, as these can scratch the surface of the porcelain.
Sealing (if applicable)
While many porcelain pavers are non-porous and do not require sealing, some manufacturers recommend them to enhance the colour and provide additional protection. If sealing is suggested:
Clean First: Ensure the paving is thoroughly cleaned before applying any sealant.
Apply Sealant: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the sealant. Use a clean, soft cloth or a sealant applicator brush.
Reapply as Needed: Depending on the sealant used, reapplication might be necessary every few years to maintain its protective qualities.
Preventive Measures
Protect from Heavy Loads: While porcelain is durable, avoid dragging heavy objects across the paving to prevent scratches or cracks.
Use Mats or Rugs: In areas with heavy foot traffic, consider using outdoor mats or rugs to reduce wear and tear.
Furniture Pads: Place pads or glides under outdoor furniture to prevent scratches and damage from movement.
Seasonal Maintenance
Winter Care: In colder climates, avoid using salt or chemical de-icers, as these can damage the porcelain. Instead, use a plastic shovel to remove snow and sand or a non-corrosive de-icer if needed.
Summer Care: During hot weather, wash the paving regularly to remove any accumulated dust or debris, which can become more noticeable in bright sunlight.
Additional Tips
Regular Inspections: Periodically check the paving for any signs of damage or wear. Promptly address any issues to prevent them from worsening.
Professional Cleaning: Consider professional cleaning services once a year or as needed to maintain the paving in pristine condition.