How to Define Your Patio Style

Though many people are satisfied if their patio is simply functional, if you are one of those who want something more interesting, then you should try deciding on a patio style. There are as many styles of patio as there are interior designs. Follow a few simple suggestions and try a couple of tips for a patio that is more that just a place to grill.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paint
• Accessories

1. Examine your personal taste. The decorative aspects of a patio from the plants in the borders to the cushions you place on the garden chairs are personal, and what represents good taste to one gardener may well be anathema to another. Simply ask yourself which fabrics, colors and accessories you favor and how those can translate to an outdoor space. For instance, if your favorite color is a pastel, then you are likely set, but if you favor orange, then you might want to consider using terracotta-based products as accessories.

2. Keep the patio in proportion. Aspects, such as proportion and scale, are universals. No matter how you decorate your outdoor space, a successful patio will be in proportion to the rest of the garden and to the house, and it should be sympathetic in overall appearance to the style and materials used for the other buildings against which it is set.

3. Decide how organized you need the patio. Many people need all their living spaces ordered and still others tend toward a more relaxed attitude and may tolerate or even prefer a certain dishevelment. The two are not mutually exclusive, but a tendency one way or the other may well be evident in how you design and create your garden.

4. Define how you will use the patio. If you want to use the patio as a quiet retreat, then you will want to plan for privacy and comfort. However, if you find your garden is frequently the setting for parties, then your main concern will be seating space, surface areas for food and impressive lighting effects.

5. Remember that the patio as an extension of the home. If the house opens on to the patio, it is a good idea to relate the two, perhaps matching colors. You can extend a natural flooring material outside or echo a wooden floor with decking.

6. Keep permanent installations to a minimum. Remember that no scheme need be forever, and you can change the look with new planting and furniture. Just try to keep permanent structures neutral or make sure that they can be repainted.