About a Patio

The patio may be a popular feature in modern America, but its roots can be traced back to the ancients. Many variations and adaptations of the patio exist, sometimes under different names. Patios can also be constructed from everything from fine gravel to concrete slabs and feature everything from hanging plants to garden gnomes. Regardless of the variations, one thing about a patio always remains the same: folks find it an ideal place to be.

History

The word "patio" comes from the Spanish meaning backyard or back garden and it has long been used in Spain and Latin America. Spain's medieval architecture featured many patios, including one at the Sevilla Cathedral and one at the now-destroyed Guadalajara ducal palace. The Spanish and Latin Americans took their idea of the patio, which they created as a roofless courtyard area, from the atrium of ancient Rome. The patio can also be seen as similar to the cortile, an open air area throughout Italy.

Function

The patio serves as a place to relax, socialize or have fun in the great outdoors. Usually stationed in the back of the home, a patio can be viewed as an extension of the living area. Those that are fully exposed are best enjoyed in balmy, clear weather, but those with a roof or fully enclosed can be used in rain and other inclement conditions. Patios are a great place for parties, picnics and sun bathing. Restaurants are big on patios for outdoor seating, a fine way to dine al fresco.

Types

A patio can be as simple as a cleared area behind the house to as elaborate, enclosed structures. Open patios can be made from a bed of gravel, concrete, cobblestone, flagstone or other rocks arranged and often cemented to create a flat surface. Covered patios will be adorned with some type of roof above it, made from wood, awnings or sun screens. Enclosed patios can be embraced by walls made of concrete, rock or trellises. A fully enclosed patio with a roof, which often features screening, is also known as a sun room.

Features

In addition to a decorative floor, walls and roof, patios can feature a number of different themes. They can be adorned with potted plants, bordered with flowers and contain hanging baskets of foliage to create a garden patio. Others can be bedecked with wind chimes, standing bird feeders, bird baths and an array of outdoor artwork. Patio furniture is usually a must so people can sit and enjoy the patio. It can include wicker, wood, metal or plastic pieces ranging from a simple chair to an elaborate cushioned couch. Patio umbrellas are another fine touch for the patio, shielding people from the sun.

Expert Insight

A patio with any other name may still be a patio. While other structures or areas may not fit the traditional American definition of the patio, they may serve the same function. A balcony or veranda, which is known as a patio in Australia, can be viewed as a patio that juts from a building, often several stories above the ground. A deck is simply a patio that is made out of wood. A porch is equivalent to a patio except that it is found in the front, rather than the back of the house. Also similar to patios are gazebos, which are usually freestanding and not connected to the house.