When designing a garden or patio, colour choice plays a decisive role in shaping the atmosphere and long-term character of an outdoor space. While durability and slip resistance are often the starting point when selecting paving stones, Indian sandstone remains one of the most popular materials in the UK due to its naturally varied and authentic colour range.
Unlike manufactured paving, Indian sandstone offers subtle tonal movement rather than uniform colour blocks. This allows patios to feel warm, traditional, contemporary, or rustic depending on the stone selected. In this guide, we explore the most popular Indian sandstone colours used in British gardens and explain how each influences the overall look and feel of an outdoor space.
Why does Indian sandstone come in so many colours?
The wide colour spectrum found in Indian sandstone paving is the result of India’s diverse geology and mineral composition. Different quarry regions contain varying concentrations of iron, quartz, clay, and natural oxides, all of which affect the final appearance of the stone.
These colours are entirely natural and run through the full body of the slab rather than being surface-applied. From muted greens and warm buffs to greys, browns, and deep charcoal tones, each flagstone reflects the environment in which it was formed. This geological variation is what gives Indian sandstone its enduring appeal in traditional British landscaping.
Many colours are closely associated with specific quarry regions. For example, Raj Green sandstone is quarried in Rajasthan and is known for its distinctive blend of light green, brown, grey-brown, and subtle plum tones, making it particularly well suited to country gardens and rural-style properties.
Raj Green Indian Sandstone
Raj Green Indian Sandstone, quarried in Rajasthan, features a balanced mix of light green tones combined with brown, grey-brown, and occasional plum hues. Its gently weathered appearance gives patios a mature, settled look even when newly laid.
In British gardens, Raj Green sandstone pairs naturally with red brickwork, stone walls, timber fencing, and traditional planting schemes. It is a long-standing favourite for country gardens, period homes, and rural-style properties where a relaxed and timeless finish is desired.
Rippon Buff Indian Sandstone
Rippon Buff Indian Sandstone is quarried in Rajasthan and is widely recognised across the UK for its consistent quality and warm colouring. Its light yellow and soft golden tones work particularly well alongside greenery, timber features, and classic garden layouts.
The gentle tonal variation adds depth without dominating the space, making Rippon Buff a popular choice for family patios, courtyards, and south-facing gardens. Its warm appearance often creates a welcoming feel throughout the year, even in overcast British conditions.
Fossil Mint Indian Sandstone
Quarried in the Gwalior region of Madhya Pradesh, Fossil Mint Indian Sandstone offers a blend of light yellow, beige, cream, and subtle brown tones. It shares similarities with Buff sandstone but includes greater variation and occasional fossil markings that add natural character.
Fossil Mint is suitable for both patios and driveways, providing warmth without appearing heavy. Its versatile colouring allows it to sit comfortably in traditional gardens as well as more contemporary outdoor designs.
Sagar Black Indian Sandstone
Sagar Black Indian Sandstone, sourced from Madhya Pradesh, is well suited to homeowners seeking a more refined and contemporary finish. Its deep charcoal and dark grey tones are naturally blended with occasional lighter highlights, giving the stone depth without appearing flat or artificial.
Compared with darker limestones, Sagar Black sandstone offers similar elegance while retaining the natural texture and character of sandstone. It is often chosen for patios where contrast and definition are important, particularly when paired with lighter walls, fencing, or planting.
Kandla Grey Indian Sandstone
Kandla Grey Indian Sandstone, quarried in the Bhilwara region of Rajasthan, is one of the most widely used paving stones in the UK. Its popularity comes from its understated grey tones combined with natural variation that prevents large paved areas from feeling uniform.
Kandla Grey suits a wide range of properties, from traditional houses to modern extensions. Its success has been so widespread that many porcelain paving ranges now attempt to replicate its appearance.
Autumn Brown Indian Sandstone
Autumn Brown Indian Sandstone, sourced from the Bhubaneswar region, features rich brown, copper, and earthy tones that closely resemble traditional Yorkstone paving.
When laid alongside lighter building materials, Autumn Brown creates strong contrast and adds a sense of depth and permanence to outdoor spaces. It is often chosen for period properties and projects where a solid, traditional appearance is preferred.
Conclusion
From the warm tones of Rippon Buff and Fossil Mint, to the traditional character of Raj Green and Autumn Brown, and the understated elegance of Kandla Grey, Indian sandstone offers a colour choice to suit almost every British garden style.
By understanding how each colour behaves in natural light and how it complements surrounding materials, homeowners can make informed decisions that stand the test of time. For further guidance, our blog shares practical insights based on decades of experience supplying natural stone paving across the UK.
