How to Design a Decorative Patio
The patio is a finished area of your yard, usually directly outside your home. An ordinary patio might contain anything from a barbecue to your children's backyard toys. However, if designed effectively, it can become an extension of your home itself; a place to cook, eat, gather and entertain. With some forethought and creativity, your patio can be a relaxing and inviting area that you never want to leave. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
Designing a Decorative Patio
-
1
Decide how you want to use the patio space, and think about the elements you will need to include accordingly. If you want to entertain, consider whether a barbecue and a set of patio furniture will suit your needs or if you would prefer to add a food preparation structure or a bar area. If you want to use your patio after dark, you will need to add patio lighting to your design.
-
2
Sketch out the space using a pencil and paper in an aerial view. Draw the area that you have to work with, then pencil in the major elements of your patio--seating, grill, play area--in different configurations until you are satisfied.
-
-
3
If you are remodeling or creating your patio area from scratch, one of your design elements will be the type of flooring material you use. Decide whether you want a wooden base, poured cement or decorative brick. Take the color of the exterior of your home and the predominant colors in your yard into consideration and choose material that will offer visual interest and contrast.
-
4
With both style and comfort in mind, select the furniture for your decorative patio that will fit the spacing you outlined in your sketch. Choose outdoor furniture that will be inviting and that would add to the visual effect of your space. If you intend to have your patio consist mostly of smooth lines and solid colors, choose patterned furniture for contrast. However, if your other elements are intricate and busy, you may want to opt for a solid color on your furniture.
-
5
Add plants and other details. Select outdoor plants that will bloom beautifully, but be careful of plants that may attract bees and other insects. Tim Carter of Ask The Builder recommends adding a water feature such as a pond or fountain to make your patio come alive. You may also choose to add outdoor decorations--metal sculptures or wall hangings--to add character.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Try different configurations and layouts before settling on one. You may discover something you like even better than your first idea.
When choosing placement for your grill or barbecue, be careful to avoid flammable plants and other materials.
