The Proper Spacing for an Open Patio
As you work on designing patio spacing for your new open patio, you need to consider what you plan to use it for. If it’s going to be a quiet retreat, your design plan may be entirely different than if you are going to use it as the family’s outdoor entertainment center. Patio furniture placement can make a big difference in how you make the best use of your outdoor space. Does this Spark an idea?
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Available Space
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Obviously, the arrangement of patio furniture is going to depend in large part on the amount of available space you have for the patio. You may not have 400 to 500 square feet, which is a good amount if you plan to entertain, near the house. Don’t limit yourself to that area alone. Consider adding multiple patio areas to your outdoor area. Set one up as a conversation area, another as a lounging area and a third area as a cooking and dining area. If space doesn’t allow you that much room, think of ways you can combine areas. As you plan ways to use your available space, consider the fact that neither you nor your guests want to be crowded regardless of the activity on the patio.
The View
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As you work out the arrangement of your patio keep in mind what you are going to have for a view. Obviously, you don’t want to be looking at the trash bin nor do you want your neighbors to be able to see everything you are doing. Space the dining area upwind of the barbecue area so you don’t have smoke blowing in your face from the grill. Planning space for shrubbery is an important consideration as you plan your open patio. Use taller plants along the edge of the patio to help create a private area. Set them so they also provide shade during the heat of the day. Shorter shrubs and flower containers should provide extra green space in your patio to contribute to its relaxing atmosphere.
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Patio Furniture
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Set the patio furniture and barbecue grill on the lawn before you even mark the lines for the patio. This gives you a chance to arrange the furniture so you can achieve a comfortable flow between areas of the patio. Allow plenty of room to walk between patio pieces. Leave at least 16 inches behind and on either side of the furniture pieces so you don’t accidentally step off the open patio and twist an ankle. Swinging and rocking pieces of furniture often need more room than stationary pieces.
Barbecue Equipment
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Set your barbecue grill and equipment close to the kitchen door so you have easy access to your supplies, if possible. Allow ample room on either side of the grill so no one accidentally bumps up against it as they pass by to another part of the patio. Set the grill and its prep area close to the dining area so you can easily serve your guests with a minimum of steps.
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References
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