Courtyard or Garden?? Paving Blocks or Tiles?
Hi guys. I will be moving to my new house next year. I am also planning to have the renovations finished before moving in.

One of the areas, I don't know what to make. A garden or a courtyard. See below.

Our current house has a garden and a grotto, aside from the other many plants outside the house, backyard and in the terrace. I find it so hard to maintain.

In my new house, I am more inclined of just having a courtyard where I could just put an outdoor set or garden set, and the greens would be in a plant box/bed, and others are potted that can be moved around, if the space is needed for other purpose.

My other question is if I do decide for a courtyard, so that I can have one leveled continuous space from the front living area to the carport to the courtyard, what flooring materials to use? Should I opt for colored concrete paving blocks (on top of a 2-in thick screeded sand), so that if ever there would be repairs and maintenance work under these areas, it would be easier to remove and replaced the blocks. Or should I choose ceramic tiles over a 4-in thick concrete slab, for aesthetic value? Though repair works/maintenance under these areas would be a hassle.

Suggestions would be highly appreciated. Thanks. 🙂