Outdoor area- stones/self binding other options?

[daunker]

Hi I have an area at back of property which I have put on type 1 and intend to whack. My hope was to slab some of it but funds won't go that far. 

 

I was going to put terran membrane down after whacking it and then have been suggested to use driveway (self binding) gravel, rather than clean loose stones (which are problematic to contain and less comfortable to walk on).

 

But Im concerned a self-binded solution won't 'look as good' i've seen the stuff used for paths and seen it puddling in heavy rain and imagine even when damp it'll track into the house. Wondering about a skinnier base and then a top dressing of the 20mm size stones/gravel perhaps with a gentle whack?

 

Or is there a better option. It's about 5x20m so a big area! The other thing is I'm not sure how to edge it, was minded by the modern 'sleepers' as easy/quicker to put down than edging stones and will last fairly well.

 

I appreciate a lot down to personal preference but would really value any insight on it, it's rented out ATM so budget conscious and open to all ideas.

 

Fingers crossed! Thanks 

[Conor]

Gravel grids, 20mm stone, and edged with plain concrete pin kerbs.

[Alan Ambrose]

That looks good, but not inexpensive - mine ended up being about £30 per m^2. Looks good though and think it'll last for a long while - mine won't have any cars on it.

[daunker]

Should point out it's just foot traffic outside area won't be vehicles parked/driving on its does that influence the grids, the neighbour has them seems to work for cars 

[Alan Ambrose]

Not all grids are alike - they vary in their load bearing from pedestrian to ‘truck’. You can get a good reading of the load bearing by taking the vendor’s claims with a big pinch of salt and just looking at the grid’s weight/m^2 i.e. how much plastic you’re getting per m^2. Ecogrid came out high up on my list. You could beat the £30/m^2 for materials by getting gravel in bulk - I got it in bags. Like everything, grids need a good solid base if they’re going to last.

[Bozza]

Agree with @Conor.  20mm Gravel.  If budget is a main factor treated timber edging to contain and if necessary put the grids where you’d likely walk.  Get a loose delivery of gravel direct from a quarry.  
 

gravel would work well aesthetically there and practical for drainage, and in winter.