Getting Started
Before you commit to a certain patio style, envision your finished space. What will its main purpose be? Will you throw parties, use it mostly as a family space, or will it be a small, quiet place to relax? Grab a chair, take it outside, and sit for a while to plan your layout. Your patio should complement your home and the surrounding landscape. If you have a large space to work with, you might want to consider some paving materials. Lastly, don’t forget to consider maintenance requirements and costs for each object you plan to set up outside.
Paving
There are a lot of modern and aesthetically pleasing paving materials to consider, some of which can be rather expensive. There are some cheaper options too, but what really matters is the functionality and look for your house and your neighborhood. Concrete is a relatively cheap choice, but how will it look next to your home? Consider the shape of your paved area too. Curves are trendy and visually satisfying. Try to break up your paved space with some plants.
Planting
Before you start this stage, be honest about how much of a plant lover you are. There’s no use in putting in a bunch of plants if nobody will be taking care of them. Maybe you leave some small areas unpaved surrounded by concrete to plant in. Maybe the border of your paved area is filled with plants. Or you can keep things simple by adding pots and containers of different heights and planting in those.
Furniture
There are a few things to consider when you’re choosing your patio furniture. Easy care should be high on that list. You want to spend most of your time enjoying your patio area, not cleaning and maintaining it. Most metal, teak, cedar, and all-weather wicker stand up to the weather well. These materials should last you years, provided they don’t get left out in the snow. Colors are important too. They should complement your home, not feel like a different world. For style longevity, reserve bold splashes of color for accent pieces like cushions.
The Extras
Now it’s time to consider the extra details that can really elevate your outdoor space. A fire pit or fireplace will provide a nice evening appeal. A fountain or water feature adds ambiance and can block out noise from the street. Do you need lighting around your patio area? Maybe you need an umbrella or trellis to provide a shady area on those hot and sunny days. All of these extras can make a nice patio an extraordinary patio.
All that’s left to do now is enjoy your new outdoor area with your family and friends!
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