Hi. Both tiles are beautiful. Top one shows more character due to its darker hue. I guess for me, I would look at aesthetics and quality manufacturing foremost, then practicality for the reasons already mentioned by others. If the area you are tiling is huge and will require a great deal more of your time to clean and maintain, then I can see going with the darker tile. If the area is rather small, and you absolutely love the lighter tile, then perhaps you will be happier following your heart. It's no good having regrets, so think it through and keep looking if you have additional time before you must choose. May I ask the size of the tiles? I'm guessing they are 900x900. ?? Also, will you be tiling your bathroom(s), and if so, do you mind sharing your choice there?

Love those! I think you've found it! Otherwise if you're after a more encaustic tile finish (more matte, stone look which I love) you can find them. If you're in Melbourne, Schots have one called Versus, but there's lots of brands that do them if you search encaustic diamond tiles?!

Where are you located? I have seen these at cerdomus tiles in Richmond and Moorabbin tiles in Moorabbin if you are in Victoria.

Hi , Love oklouise ‘s suggestions, a row of ornamental pears along fence would add a modern look, viburnum ‘emerald lustre ‘ underplanted as a hedge, it has a fabulous foliage , ornamental grasses combined with structural plants would look great, a water feature with a feature tree in smaller garden area would just finish the garden beautifully and really highlight your driveway.