Deck or paved lower seating area In garden

longwalks1

We’re planning a square area in the bottom corner of the garden for seating, approx 3.5m x 3.5m. There is already a concrete base down that size that an old shed was on.  The area is in the shade until about 4pm every day.  We’re going to have a corner sofa built from 4x4 timber, but can’t decide on whether to deck the area or pave it.  The area that leads to it will be large paving slabs (maybe 75cm x 75cm) scattered like stepping stones, with a coloured gravel around them.  What base would look better, decking for the contrast, or paved with the same slabs? (Modern porcelain)

any suggestions?

Grenage

I would always pick paving over decking; decking is noisy and higher maintenance - plus with that much shade it's likely to get slippery.
You've already got a concrete base so that's most of the work done.

Browntoa

No to decking , slippery when wet , high maintenance , home to local rats

[Deleted User]

Paving every time. 

RelievedSheff

Composite decking could be a compromise. Still needs washing off though.

phoebe1989seb

Another vote for paving.

We inherited decking in a walled courtyard between our cottage and the main garden when we bought this property. It was hideous - damp and slippery, enough to prevent the area being used - so we replaced all but a small, roofed area (which now has a rug so the decking is completely covered) with gravel and raised veg beds. So much more attractive, imho, and now it gets used frequently 

The only time we found decking quite useful/suitable was when we installed a hot tub at a previous house, but I wouldn't choose to (do either) again 

greatcrested

I hate decking, quite apart from the maintenance and drawbacks (eg algae slippery).

MovingForwards

Paved for me too. 
Reasons as per everyone else.