Top Materials for New Orleans Patios: Flagstone, Travertine, Pavers & More

Designing the perfect patio in New Orleans means more than just picking a pretty surface — it requires smart planning around durability, drainage, heat resistance, and regional style. Whether you’re looking to entertain guests, build a pool deck, or create a peaceful outdoor retreat, your choice of patio material can make or break your project.

Here’s a breakdown of the top-performing patio materials we recommend for homes across South Louisiana, based on performance, style, and value.

1. Travertine Pavers – Luxury Meets Functionality

Best for: Pool decks, upscale patios, hot climates
Pros:

  • Naturally cool underfoot (perfect for New Orleans heat)

  • Elegant, high-end look

  • Slip-resistant surface

  • Withstands moisture and freeze-thaw cycles

Why it's great for NOLA: Travertine handles Louisiana’s humidity and rain better than most stone options, making it ideal for pool surrounds and uncovered patios.

2. Flagstone – Timeless, Natural Beauty

Best for: Organic, rustic-style patios, shaded courtyards
Pros:

  • Irregular shapes create a custom, natural look

  • Comes in colors that complement Southern homes

  • Long lifespan

  • Grippy surface texture for wet areas

Considerations: Flagstone must be installed properly with good base prep and drainage, or it can shift over time in our soft, clay-heavy soils.

3. Concrete Pavers – Durable & Budget-Friendly

Best for: Walkways, modern patios, driveways
Pros:

  • Extremely versatile — tons of patterns and colors

  • Easy to repair by replacing individual units

  • Excellent for modular or geometric layouts

  • Affordable and fast to install

NOLA Note: Choose light-colored pavers to combat the heat and use polymeric sand to reduce weed growth between joints.

4. Stamped Concrete – Custom Looks, Seamless Finish

Best for: Large patios, themed outdoor areas
Pros:

  • Can mimic brick, wood, slate, or tile

  • Continuous surface = easier cleaning

  • Good for integrating fire pits, seating walls, or border inlays

Watch out: It can get slick when wet and may need sealing every few years in our climate to prevent surface breakdown.

5. Clay Brick Pavers – Historic Southern Charm

Best for: Classic or historic-style homes, front patios
Pros:

  • Adds a timeless New Orleans feel

  • Works well with French Quarter or Garden District aesthetics

  • Ages beautifully

Tip: Use a herringbone or basketweave pattern for maximum strength on walkways and driveways.

🛠️ Local Considerations for Patio Materials in New Orleans

When choosing your patio surface, keep in mind:

  • Soil Type: Our region’s clay soils require proper compaction and drainage layers to prevent settling.

  • Rainfall & Drainage: Materials must be graded properly to avoid standing water and mildew.

  • Heat & Sun: Go with UV-resistant, light-colored surfaces to keep things cool.

  • Hurricane Season: Choose options that resist shifting, erosion, and cracking in wet conditions.

🧰 Bonus Tip: Combine Materials for a Custom Look

We often design patios using a mix of materials — for example:

  • Travertine field with brick accents

  • Concrete pavers bordered with shell stone

  • Flagstone paths leading to a stamped concrete seating area

This creates a layered, high-end aesthetic while keeping the budget in check.

Ready to Build the Perfect Patio?

At Louisiana Land Art, we specialize in custom outdoor living spaces throughout the Greater New Orleans area. From material selection to CAD design and installation, we guide you every step of the way.







Connor Caillet