How to Build a Unique Patio

Patios offer space to dine, relax, entertain and do so much more. They can be large or small and built expensively or inexpensively. If you are going to have a patio in your landscape, why not make it something special? Here are some suggestions on how to have a unique patio to make your garden practical, attractive and something exceptional.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
   Hidden, dtatched patio

   The location of your patio is the first step to create a unique patio. Consider how you will be using your patio. If you will be eating there, it should be convenient to the kitchen. If you are looking for a quiet space, you may want to make your patio detached and a bit further away from the house. Patios don’t always have to be plopped right in the middle of the back of the house.

2. A unique patio doesn’t have to be square or even rectangular. You can make your patio any shape you want. If you plan to include furniture, lay out your patio shape so you can comfortably fit in the furniture – or other furnishings – you will be using. Shapes can be geometric to offer a formal feel, curved to offset the harsh angles of a house, or freeform for a natural look.

3. 
   A variety of stone

   And choose flooring that will be practical for how the space will be used. Flooring can also be customized. You can have stone, smooth, stamped or colored concrete, gravel, brick, wood, bamboo or tile. Or you can mix any of these materials to create colorful designs or pictures.

4. If you are going to include a patio cover, consider a cover that will give you the kind of shade you need and yet that provides a style, color and look that enhances your landscape design. Some examples might be a triangular fabric cover in a contemporary design, or a thatched roof for a tiki-styled patio.

5. 
   Cut a window through a patio wall. (Stock footage)

   Integrate your unique patio with pathways or stepping stones or create stepped levels. Build a hedge that leads to, or surrounds your patio to create natural walls. Another kind of wall could be used as a seating wall. Or set up edgings with wrought iron or tumbled stones.

6. There are so many ways you can customize your patio. Make sure it is designed in harmony with the house design and that of the overall landscape. Then look though magazines, books or the internet to see some ideas that others have used. Enjoy designing and building a patio to make it to unique to your own style and tastes. If you are going to the effort of making a patio, why not make it something special and unique?

Resources

• Landscape design and garden information

[alystarcrane]

on 5/7/2009 Great tips for great patios. Thanks 5*

[lezsays]

on 4/30/2009 Nice tips on designing patios.

[sonni57]

on 4/27/2009 I love patios and have one in the back thanks for the good ideas.

[Mitestarossa]

on 4/27/2009 Cool patio ideas.