tannietara- Any stone (bluestone slate), travertine, brick, or concrete will get hot in the sun because of the thermal mass capacity of these dense materials. If you do use these them, you should consider lighter colors as they will reflect more of the solar radiation striking them, rather than absorbing it as will darker colors. Travertine may have the edge here, and by its nature is less dense than bluestone slate. You might also consider separating bluestone pavers with intermediate grids of turf (best), pea gravel, or decomposed granite which will break up the mass of the stone and help allow the stone pavers to cool. Always wanted to see Perth! -Greg

Thanks for the ideas - I realise that only looking at flooring as the 'link' between inside/outside is limiting. We will have a brick boundary fence that will connect to our inside brick (but don't want brick pavers, too small and busy for our small space). We will also have a timber pergola that links to our beams/doors/flooring. So perhaps it's not essential that the pavers 'match' the flooring. I do like Travertine, and certainly large pavers are the idea. Also that pic that Swaneee posted - I would never have thought of that as 'slabs of cement', but it looks nice - where do you get that kind of thing, and what sort of cost? PS: I never said twin boys, it's one boy and one girl - but just the same in terms of pebbles being out!

So I ve gone with grey pebbles next to the mulch and mixed white/grey round next to it, under the window. Am going to have a flower bed in the tree ring and a lawn where u see the loose soil. Does this look ok for now ? 1) I ll put pavers later here as the shop is out of paving sand. I can go dark gray pavers here but would oatmeal or cream look out of place (check 4 th pic ) ? Considering its next to red brick, mulch and neighbor s oatmeal driveway ? 2) I can get 600 *300 pavers. 3) As for plants, I am doing more in the backyard where i get a lot of sun. In the front, I ve got a succulent rockery, murraya hedges, tree flower ring. Could u recommend some bushy, shade loving plants I could use in pots next to the window ? Thanks.

In Australia everyone is in preparation for summer and holiday time at home. Fun in the sun, lazing by the pool you will need to have your entertainment and pool areas cleaned and ready for family and friends. This is where the professional stone services of The Marble Man will assist. Outdoor pavers around pools, in courtyards and on driveways, made from sandstone, limestone, travertine, terrazzo, flagstone and granite are quite resistant to weather however they are susceptible to staining and discolouration from outdoor pollution, soil, pool chemicals, leaves, oils and bird droppings. View The Marble Man website - www.themarbleman.com.au for outdoor stone cleaning information. Sealing will protect these stones to a degree however regular cleaning is recommended to avoid long term damage and the need for resurfacing. The Marble Man is experienced at successfully removing discolouration from green moss, mould, leaves and other organic stains using special cleaning products and systems. Our technicians will revive your outdoor stone pavers so that the appeal of your pool or entertaining area is restored to be enjoyed. Before cleaning - over time the natural elements have discoloured the stone. The Marble Man cleaning process maintains the stones integrity. After The Marble Man cleaning processes - restored to it's natural glory! We respect stone and it's quality in your home. The Marble Man - specialist cleaning service - 1300 627 626 - for our free proposal - www.themarbleman.com.au