POLISHED CONCRETE OUTDOOR PATIO

14-06-2023

EXPAND YOUR HOME WITH POLISHED CONCRETE PATIOS

Wherever you call home, whether it’s a town house or a country retreat, there’s one universal desire that homeowners share: more space. Everyone is aware that space is a precious commodity. It’s good to know, then, that there is a solution; a polished concrete outdoor patio unlocks the potential of your outdoor living spaces.

Imagine stepping outside onto a beautifully polished concrete patio, where the boundaries between your interior and exterior spaces dissolve. It’s a concept embraced by architects, who recognise the power of blurring the lines between the indoors and outdoors to create a cohesive and inviting living environment.

DirectStone polished concrete specialists create beautiful living spaces indoors and out. In this article, we’ll look at the benefits and potential of polished concrete patios. And we’ll offer a few ideas to inspire you to transform your garden space.

WHAT IS EXTERIOR POLISHED CONCRETE?

Outdoor polished concrete is created through a process of diamond grinding and polishing the surface of concrete to achieve a glossy, smooth, and stunning shine. It involves the use of diamond grinding tools and sealants to remove imperfections, enhance the concrete’s appearance, and provide protection against weathering.

Despite common concerns, polished concrete does not become slippery when subjected to the polishing process. It is classified as a low-slip surface, even when wet, making it a safe choice for gardens. Therefore, a wet polished concrete patio does not present any higher risk compared to other hard surfaces.

THE BENEFITS OF A POLISHED CONCRETE OUTDOOR PATIO

The sleek elegance of polished concrete patios can enhance any garden, no matter the style or aesthetics. The appearance, though, is just one of the benefits offered by exterior polished concrete:

Durability. Polished concrete is highly resilient and can withstand the rigours of outdoor use, making it a long-lasting option for exterior spaces.
Low Maintenance. Exterior polished concrete patios can retain their good looks with minimal maintenance.
Customised Finishes. Polished concrete offers a range decorative options, including colours, textures, and organic aggregate patterning to complement the garden.
Sustainability. If you already have exterior concrete surfaces, the polishing process provides a sustainable choice for outdoor living.
Indoor/Outdoor Fusion. Matching surfaces inside house with those in a garden creates invitation to view the exterior as an extension of the home.

LOOKING FOR POLISHED CONCRETE PATIO IDEAS?

The DirectStone team has worked on many beautiful garden patios enhanced by polished concrete. It can add clean lines to create a dining area in a garden characterised by lush green growth or bring out the style and charm of a small patio area designed for relaxing on warm evenings. Here are 4 of the team’s favourites:

1. DISSOLVE THE BOUNDARIES BETWEEN INDOORS AND OUT

When the sun arrives, the joy of opening your back doors and enjoying indoor-outdoor living is unique. Creating a harmonious flow can be achieved by using the same material for your concrete patio on both sides of the door. Additionally, incorporating an assortment of potted plants at the boundary point both creates an invitation to step out, and gives you a chance to showcase your favourite colours.

2. CELEBRATE THE ORGANIC HUES OF POLISHED CONCRETE

The polishing process brings out the inherent coloration of the stone present in concrete, showcasing its natural beauty. Additionally, you can opt to highlight the distinct organic patterns formed by the aggregate. Combining these features with other organic elements, such as a clear pool, or furniture covered in cotton or linen fabrics that mirror the hues of the concrete, can create a harmonious and cohesive aesthetic.

3. MIX UP THE TEXTURES

You have the freedom to shape your outdoor patio with polished concrete in any way you desire. It can take the form of an island amidst your garden landscape or incorporate various geometrical shapes. The understated elegance of polished concrete creates a striking contrast when paired with lush grass, gravel, or natural stone. Alternatively, you may opt to juxtapose areas of high gloss polishing with sections featuring a matte finish.

4. USE POLISHED CONCRETE AS A BLANK CANVAS

If you’re concerned that a stretch of polished concrete might feel too stark for your garden, think of it as a blank canvas awaiting your personal touch. It provides the perfect foundation for your creative expression. You can enliven the space by placing plant pots, incorporating lush foliage, or even adding a graceful watercourse.

Additionally, selecting furniture that stands out distinctly against the uniformity of the patio base can further enhance its visual appeal. And let’s not forget about lighting! Whether it’s the gentle glow of strung lights or the warm flicker of candles, they bring out the captivating reflectivity of the polished concrete surface.

LET DIRECTSTONE CREATE YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE

DirectStone is a family-run business with a passion for creating beautiful polished concrete patios. We’re happy to visit your home and offer a range of options for your garden space, or we can work with your ideas. We always provide a free no obligation quote. We work throughout the UK mainly in London, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire, Hertfordshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk.