Nestled in the rolling landscape near Shrewsbury, Shropshire, lies a Victorian farmhouse with a story that spans centuries. Built circa 1820 atop the foundations of an even older structure, the property is a living timeline of British architectural history. For the owners, renovating such a significant home is a labor of love - one that requires a delicate balance between preserving heritage and creating a space for modern family life. The latest chapter in this renovation focuses on the hidden gem of the grounds: a 1970s swimming pool. By reimagining the hardscaping, the owners have transformed a dated feature into a seamless extension of the farmhouse. The Antique Honey Cathedral pool paving and Tudor Clay Pavers blend the warmth of traditional stone with the practicality of contemporary outdoor living.

Heritage Style Pool Paving

A Victorian Farmhouse with a Storied Past

Located in the heart of the Shropshire countryside near Shrewsbury, this stunning Victorian farmhouse is a project of passion and discovery. While the main house dates back to approximately 1820, its foundations sit atop a much older history, with the owners uncovering remnants from various eras as they renovate.

The expansive grounds are a testament to traditional English country living, featuring:

  • Two classic greenhouses and a sprawling kitchen garden.
  • Historic outbuildings and a rare, original ice house.
  • A 1970s swimming pool—the focus of this latest transformation.

"We are renovating a Victorian farmhouse… it was built sometime around 1820 but over the top of an existing building which had been here much longer. We keep finding remnants from all sorts of eras."

Pool Paving

The Vision & Design

The goal for this phase of the renovation was to breathe new life into the existing 1970s pool area, creating a space to enjoy while work continued on the rest of the property. The technical side involved new pipework, a fresh interior finish, and the installation of a sustainable air-source heat pump, but the aesthetic challenge was blending the mid-century pool with the 19th-century red-brick farmhouse.

"We wanted to renovate the pool area so that we could enjoy it while continuing work on the rest of the property. There’s nothing like a swim after working hard on a hot day!"

To bridge this gap, the owners turned to Pinterest to create their mood boards, focusing on a wishlist that included a future outdoor kitchen and a timeless, cohesive flow between the water and the house.

"I always use Pinterest to gather ideas and that’s where I first got the idea of the brick pathway. I thought it was an ideal way of blending the more modern pool area in with the red brick of the Victorian house."

Choosing the Right Materials

Initially, the owners considered porcelain paving tiles but felt the finish was too modern for a property with such deep history. After visiting the Westminster Stone Display Centre and consulting with our expert, Martin, they pivoted toward a more authentic combination.

"The Honey Cathedral paving is a warm colour that blends in with the brick. A grey stone would have been too cold and provided too much contrast. The honey tones compliment the brickwork perfectly."

The Honey Cathedral Limestone garden paving was selected for its tumbled edges and weathered patina, providing the lived-in charm they craved. Beyond aesthetics, the stone paving needed to be practical; it had to be naturally slip-resistant and durable enough to withstand frequent water splashes from the pool.

"We originally looked at a porcelain tile but decided that it was a bit too modern looking. The tumbled edges on the Honey Cathedral garden paving were just what we were looking for to give the patio more of an aged look. We also wanted to make sure the surface was non slip and tough enough to take the frequent water splashes."

Pool Paving

A Masterclass in Texture

The pairing of Antique Honey Cathedral Limestone and Tudor Clay Pavers has resulted in a space that feels like it has been there as long as the farmhouse itself. The brick pavers offer a rich, earthy detail that frames the pool, while the large-format Honey Limestone paving provides a clean, expansive surface for lounging.

"Together the two products have worked incredibly well. They really feel like they’ve been there forever but also give a clean look to the pool area. I love this space in the early afternoon on a sunny day with the fig leaves casting shadows on the patio."

The Experience

Working with Westminster Stone was a collaborative process from start to finish. From the initial visit to the show garden to receiving samples in the post, the owners felt supported in their decision-making.

"Westminster Stone were endlessly helpful. We really enjoyed visiting the show garden and chatting through all the options with Martin. He helped us by sending out samples and the again with loads of advice around sealing the two different types of stone. I’d definitely recommend Westminster Stone to everyone."

The Final Result

Today, the pool area is the heart of the garden during the summer months. It has become a sanctuary where the family can relax after a hard day's work on the farm, and a social hub for their children to host friends. By choosing materials that honor the property's Victorian roots, the owners have created a timeless retreat that adds both value and soul to their historic home.

Project Credits

Bring the Heritage Look to Your Garden

Inspired by this Victorian farmhouse transformation? Whether you are looking for non-slip pool paving or a traditional garden path, we can help you achieve the perfect aesthetic for your property & style. Visit a manned display centre to speak with experts like Martin and see a wide range of garden paving in a realistic garden setting.

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Shop the Look

Antique Honey Cathedral Paving

Antique Honey Cathedral Garden Paving adds a warm golden glow to outdoor landscapes. The natural textured finish and mottled golden hue is distinct to this beautiful limestone paving which is hand-cut and tumbled for an elegant finish. The traditional character and charm of antique honey paving stones complements both contemporary and historical settings alike.

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tudor clay pavers

Clay Paver - Tudor

These classic, handcrafted clay pavers bring a timeless warmth to both traditional and modern garden designs. Tudor showcases a mellow terracotta blend with lighter tones, perfect for creating charming pathways, elegant patios, paving circles and defined garden edging. Kiln-fired for durability and frost resistance, these pavers are well-suited to the UK climate. Handmade in the UK from quality clay, they offer long-lasting performance and authentic character.

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About the Author

Sian McHugh

'Sian has been working with us at Westminster Stone for over 7 years and has developed expertise in garden design and landscaping. Her passion for nature extends to tending her own garden, teaching yoga and hiking during her free time.'