Question
Hi  My patio measures about 8 feet by 10 feet.  I believe it is made of aggregate rock.   There are a few faded places and I wanted to improve the look of it.  Do  you know of any options for a DIY project.   Thank you very much for any information.

Answer
There are clearly many options for a space of this kind. One could relay the patio in a natural stone that is more local to the area. One could lay a fired brick patio and create some interesting patterns using the bricks to create designs. Alternatively one could create a gravel garden (See www.ecologicagardens.eu).

By using large, decorative terracotta vases one could add topiary plants (See www.lifeinitaly.com/garden) which would add structure.

If you could let me know the position (sun or shade) of the patio then I could let you know some alternatives for which plants to use.