Your patio is an integral component of your home and an excellent place to relax and connect with nature. It’s also one of the most expensive elements of any garden design. Since a patio plays several different roles, designing it needs careful consideration.
Below are the most important things to consider when designing a new patio.
The Purpose of the Patio
The first step to designing the perfect patio is to consider its intended use. Maybe you plan to use your patio as a family space or a space for holding outdoor parties. The intended use often determines the size and location of the patio.
For example, if you’ll use your patio primarily for dining, you’ll need to construct it in a shaded place to keep diners cool during warm weather.
Choose a Suitable Location
Many homeowners place their patio immediately adjacent to the home’s rear exit because it’s convenient. However, this location may not work well for your patio. You may consider placing your patio away from your house to promote privacy.
A patio used primarily for dining is best placed as close to the kitchen as possible. Likewise, a patio intended mainly for sitting in the sun should be placed where the sun primarily shines.
Consider Patio Size
Size is another critical consideration in the patio design process. Your patio should be large enough to accommodate the correct table size with room to pull chairs out and for your guests to move around freely when others are seated.
While there’s no specific rule of thumb for patio size, it’s advisable to design proportionately to your house. The patio should be as wide as the house and as long as the height of the house. You might want to consider matching it to an indoor room’s size.
Select the Materials for Your Patio
Most homeowners use concrete, brick, flagstone, or slate for their patio surfaces. Besides cost, there are several other factors to consider when choosing patio material, including patio usage, climate and environment, maintenance, durability, and style.
Choosing a material that matches the style of your home often delivers excellent results. For a patio used mainly for dining, it’s best to go for a smooth surface to prevent patio furniture from wobbling.
Consider Your Style
Your patio design should reflect your style. However, it’s important to keep the style of your house in mind when adding your tastes. If you have a modern house, contemporary paving styles will work best for you.
On the other hand, traditional paving works best with old house designs. Your style should also dictate the details you choose to incorporate, such as planters, fireplaces, and fountains.
If you don’t know how to design a patio, these tips and ideas should get you started. However, a great patio design can be done with the help of an experienced contractor. If you’re looking for professional help on patio design, get in touch with Stoeckig Landscape Group at 770-831-1790.