- One of the problems with concrete patios is that they tend to either end abruptly or blend into the surrounding landscape. Soften the transition by adding a colorful edge to the patio with potted plants. Alternatively, create a vertical border. You can do this easily by stacking landscaping bricks into short columns, then placing a wide board across the columns, with the ends of the board resting on top of the columns. Do this on only one side of the patio, or around the entire thing. Then, soften the columns by placing a potted plant in front of (and on top of, if you wish) each one. Place cushions on the boards to create instant guest seating. Just be sure to build enough columns to support your guests, if you are going to be using it for seating.
- Consider buying an outdoor rug. Lay the rug on top of the concrete patio to add instant color and interest to the space. Or, paint your concrete patio. Use a special paint formulated for concrete or a concrete stain. These are easy to apply with a spray gun or rollers, and both the paints and stains dry quickly in the sun. Consider first painting, then laying a rug over the concrete patio.
- One of the easiest ways to decorate your concrete patio is to add furniture that will distract your guests' attention away from the concrete beneath their feet. Buy a beautiful patio set, complete with umbrella and table, a graceful wooden bench, or set a portable fire pit in the middle of the concrete, with some chairs placed around it. A glider or freestanding swing is sure to be a hit with family and friends, and the delicious smells of a barbecue are all but certain to be more interesting than an ugly concrete patio. Finally, don't forget to draw the attention of your guests upward. If the patio is against the side of the house, hang some plants on the house, or a ceramic barometer, outdoor clock, wall fountain or other conversation piece.
