When it comes to hardscaping, homeowners have traditionally enjoyed the luxury of choosing between beautifully manufactured concrete or brick pavers. In recent years, however, a growing number of folks have begun to take notice of a third compelling option: porcelain.
Porcelain slabs or pavers are a variety of cultured stone that are designed and engineered to emulate other natural materials, like stone or wood, while offering superior strength and durability. At the same time, porcelain slabs are very affordable and easy to work with.
Could porcelain pavers give your hardscape the glamorous makeover you’ve been dreaming of? If you believe these fabulous materials could be the perfect fit for your home, take a look at some of the many ways that NJ homeowners are putting porcelain slabs to use.
By drawing inspiration from the following 5 styles, you’re sure to establish a stunning outdoor living space that will dazzle you and your guests.
1. Mediterranean Chic
Mediterranean style has grown extremely popular throughout the western world, and more and more NJ homeowners are learning to incorporate this style throughout their home’s interiors and exteriors.
Characterized by simple, neutral tones and smooth patterns with small “pops” of vibrant, bold colors and ornate decor, Mediterranean style makes it possible for homeowners and their guests to feel completely comfortable and relaxed while still creating a sense of upscale sophistication.
Porcelain slabs in soft shades of brown, tan, white, eggshell, or beige are the perfect base material for tying your entire outdoor living space together. Be sure to pick from tiles that only feature one color and that make use of very subtle texturing, or a smooth finish.
These pieces will create the upscale, neutral space that you crave for relaxation. The soft colors will look incredible when contrasted against the turquoise color of your swimming pool, for example.
You might incorporate splashes of turquoise, blue, teal, orange, yellow, or red throughout the space, whether it be added with an edging material, outdoor furniture, hardware on outdoor gates, etc. Have fun with your decorating because a strong, soft base will hold it all together.
2. Desert Oasis
Desert landscapes and hardscapes are especially intriguing and exciting for NJ homeowners because they provide us with an opportunity to enjoy an environment that we wouldn’t otherwise be exposed to.
Contrasting sharply against the typical green trees and grasses, and opposing the magnificent Jersey shore, desert landscaping embraces the subtle and simplistic beauty of the more barren areas of the world. Putting an emphasis on sandy tones like yellow, gold, beige, or tan, desert themes tend to be very relaxing and calming, acting as your own personal oasis.
To achieve this look, we suggest that you consider working to create a “sandy” floor comprised of porcelain tile in the aforementioned color families. Where possible, try to work with slabs that feature multiple shades swirled together for a more natural look.
This can also create excellent texturing that will make the tile appear even more like the desert floor. Because desert hardscaping and landscaping is so simplistic, the slabs won’t need bold or dramatic features to complete your outdoor living space. Consider simple, wooden or wicker outdoor furnishings and basic shapes with clean lines and edges.
3. Cozy Hardwood
Everyone loves the rich, luxurious beauty offered by hardwood flooring. Unfortunately, natural hardwood isn’t practical for use outdoors, so until recently, homeowners could only enjoy this look via interior decorating.
Porcelain tiles have completely changed the game, though. While some porcelain pavers are manufactured to emulate natural stone, others are finished with colors and textures associated with natural wood.
Deep, inviting shades of brown create warmth and comfort, establishing a space where you and your family can gather together for a cozy evening in your outdoor living or dining space. Because the “hardwood” appearance of these porcelain slabs can evoke such a strong sense of being at home, we often suggest that our customers consider incorporating other home comforts throughout their living areas.
You might decide to install a stunning outdoor fireplace, for example, or surround the space with furnishings that feature large, plush, oversized cushions for curling up with a good book. Whatever makes you feel most comfortable and relaxed will be the perfect fit for your faux hardwood flooring.
4. The Best of Both Worlds
We’d all love to be able to have our cake and eat it, too. This is especially true when homeowners are faced with decisions about whether they want their properties to feature lush, green grass and garden spaces, or stunning and sophisticated hardscape.
Some porcelain slabs are designed to work beautifully when situated side-by-side with grass and other vegetation. Consequently, many NJ homeowners are learning how to create stunning juxtapositions between hardscape and landscape by establishing checkerboard patterns or even spacing between one porcelain slab and an equal, square patch of grass.
You might even fill some of the spaces with miniature flower gardens or other beautiful plants. Ultimately, this will add a whole new dynamic of texturing and visual interest that will allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds.
5. Timeless Elegance
Simplicity goes a long way and lasts for a lifetime – and beyond! There’s something to be said for making the decision to go with a very basic, subtle and neutral style of porcelain tile that isn’t subscribed to any particular theme or style of decor.
One of the great things about porcelain slabs is that they are so strong, durable and long-lasting. Even when exposed to regular usage and wear-and-tear, they won’t become scratched or chipped. They also hold up beautifully when faced with other elements.
From exposure to UV rays to brutal freeze-and-thaw cycles, porcelain can handle it all. This means that, once installed, your porcelain slabs are going to be there for a long time. As such, you want to make sure that you’re going to continue to love the style you choose, and that it will continue to add value to your home rather than detract from it.
Going with a timelessly elegant and simplistically beautiful tile will allow you to be able to easily find patio furnishings and features that will compliment the porcelain. Sticking with basic, neutral tones and smooth texturing will ensure that your pavers won’t become dated or unsightly over time.
Buying Porcelain Pavers in NJ
When you’re ready to start working with cultured stone products like beautiful porcelain slabs, be sure to visit your local Braen Supply showroom. We work with the leading hardscaping manufacturers to ensure that our customers are able to choose from the loveliest and highest quality porcelain slabs on the market.
You’ll find a wide range of materials in various colors, shapes, textures and styles in order to accommodate all of our customer’s needs. Our staff is knowledgeable about all of the products we sell and can answer any questions you may have while offering valuable input and advice for your project.
We take pride in keeping our prices as low and competitive as possible. Our porcelain pavers can be picked up at your convenience or can be bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.
