We went through the same challenge when updating ours last year. At first, we picked tiles purely for appearance, but after a few weeks, the surface became slippery when wet — not ideal for kids. We ended up switching to textured pavers that stayed cool and added grip. I found some helpful ideas on https://oakshs.ca/pool-interlocking/ ; they show different materials that combine style and function. One big lesson: always test the texture barefoot before committing. Also, make sure there’s proper drainage so water doesn’t pool up — that’s where cracks and moss start forming. A good balance of design and safety really pays off long-term, especially when you want the deck to look great for years without endless upkeep.