As Australians, there’s no denying our deep love for the outdoors – whether it’s beach days, afternoon walks or a friendly backyard cricket match, outdoor living is in our DNA. Just like the inside of our homes, these outdoor spaces deserve to be something special. Natural stone pavers are a key element in transforming an ordinary yard into a relaxing retreat, blending beauty with durability. Melbourne Pool + Outdoor Design’s, Josephine Day chats with Simon Heyblok, director of Romano Tiles, about the rising popularity of natural stone paving and how it’s taking Aussie backyards to the next level.
It’s no question that the outdoors fills us with calm, and it’s only fitting that we make the most of them.
For years, Romano Indoor & Outdoor Solutions has helped Australians craft their dream outdoor living areas, offering not just high-quality products, but expert guidance and personalised service tailored to each unique vision. “Romano Indoor & Outdoor Solutions was born out of a desire to simplify the building and renovation experience for both clients and industry professionals,” says Heyblok. The company offers a curated range of interior and exterior finishes – from natural stone and tiles to bathroom fittings – all under one roof. Heyblok’s hands-on approach, rooted in a passion for both design and service, ensures a smooth, outcome-driven experience. Whether you’re renovating or building your forever home, Romano Indoor & Outdoor Solutions takes the stress out of sourcing and delivers stunning results.
So, if you’re set in stone on creating an outdoor space that’s as functional as it is beautiful, Heyblok shares why natural stone pavers are the perfect foundation.
FROM ZERO TO HERO
Creating your dream outdoor space can feel overwhelming, especially with so many inspirations to choose from. That’s why it’s often best to go back to basics and let one standout feature shine. Natural stone is the perfect starting point – blending simplicity with timeless beauty and working seamlessly into any design. Its natural charm offers a visual appeal that simply can’t be replicated by manufactured materials. “Natural stone plays a big part in our offering because it delivers something that manufactured materials simply can’t – character, authenticity, and timeless appeal,” says Heyblok. “Our clients are drawn to the individuality of each piece, and the way stone can elevate a space both visually and functionally. It’s a product that speaks to quality and craftsmanship, and aligns perfectly with our commitment to offering beautiful, long-lasting solutions.”
Stone’s organic textures and tones bring an elegant, grounded feel to any space, whether it’s a sleek, modern build or a traditional home. Better still, natural stone only gets better with time, developing character as it ages.
For pool lovers, the choice of paving is just as important. “Travertine continues to be a favourite – especially in lighter tones – for its soft, tactile feel and non-slip properties,” Heyblok describes. “Limestone is loved for its clean, modern aesthetic and versatility, while bluestone remains a strong performer thanks to its durability and rich, natural colour. Each stone has its own personality, which allows us to help clients find the perfect fit for their space and style.”
THE GROUNDED CHOICE
We all know that Australia has an unpredictable climate, combined with extreme heat, humidity and moisture – making it essential to choose materials that are not only durable, but also capable of withstanding these everchanging conditions. Natural stone is a standout choice, particularly for outdoor and poolside settings. “When sealed and maintained properly, stone can easily withstand heat, salt exposure, and moisture. Travertine and limestone, for example, are excellent choices for coastal and poolside locations,” Heyblok comments. These materials are slip-resistant and cool underfoot, making them ideal for wet areas where safety and comfort are crucial. Heyblok adds, “Natural stone performs extremely well outdoors, especially when properly selected and sealed. When installed correctly, it also offers excellent longevity, even in high use areas.”
When selecting stone for pool surrounds or alfresco spaces, homeowners should carefully consider factors such as durability and surface temperature. It’s also important to think about how the material complements indoor-outdoor living. Beyond function, natural stone offers significant aesthetic appeal.
Its versatility allows it to flow seamlessly between interior and exterior spaces, promoting visual cohesion throughout the home. “We often see clients carry the same stone from an alfresco area into a bathroom or hallway to create visual cohesion. It’s an ideal material for connecting spaces, both stylistically and functionally,” says Heyblok.
PAVING THE WAY
As design trends continue to evolve, Heyblok offers a glimpse into what we can expect in 2025. “We’re seeing a shift toward warmer neutrals, soft textures and large format pavers that give a clean, expansive feel,” he explains. “There’s also a growing interest in combining different finishes – for example, a smooth honed paver alongside a tumbled coping edge. Natural variation and subtle texture are in high demand, as people lean into designs that feel relaxed and organic.”
Heyblok recalls a standout project that embodies this trend – a custom-designed poolscape in Melbourne’s east, where tumbled travertine was used for both paving and coping, complemented by Portsea Stone Wall Cladding on feature pillars. The contrast between the soft, warm tones of the pavers and the raw, textural cladding created a visually stunning space that harmonised beautifully with the home’s architecture and natural surroundings.
Sustainability, however, also remains prevalent on the mind of homeowners, as Heyblok emphaises the importance of choosing environmentally responsible materials. “Sustainability is something we take seriously,” he states. “We work with trusted quarries and suppliers who prioritise ethical and responsible sourcing. Natural stone is also a durable, long-life material, which means it doesn’t need to be replaced often – reducing waste over time.
