Start with how the space works
Start by thinking about the furniture you actually want to use, the doors that lead outside and where sun or shade falls at the time you are most likely to sit in the garden.
Look beneath the visible finish
Paths, steps and changes in level should feel natural. A slightly larger, simpler paved area often works better than several small disconnected sections.
Get the scope right before work begins
Once the layout is right, material choice becomes easier because colour and format can be judged against the house and garden.