Design The Perfect Outdoor Patio
Outdoor patios can expand the amount of space you get to enjoy. They can add value to your home, and even though it gets cold here in the Boston are, they can be used year-round if you have the right design elements. There are a few things to consider when choosing the ideal layout for an outdoor patio.
Think about size and location
Do you want your patio to be right outside your house, or would you like it to be a bit separate so it feels more connected with nature? Do you plan on having big parties or are you just going to host intimate events outside? These are perhaps the most important questions to consider when you're starting out with the planning process. Obviously, the layout of your yard will affect your design, but the sizing and location of a patio really depend on how you'll be using it. If you have a table that can go outside as a placeholder, put it in a spot where you're thinking about setting up a patio. Think about how much space surrounding that table you'd like to have, and think about whether you'd like additional seating areas.
Consider different materials
There are so many choices when it comes to patio materials. Some people prefer concrete while others like brick, slate, or flagstone. You could also have a more natural look and mix in pebbles or sand. If you plan on setting up an outdoor dining spot, keep in mind that smooth surfaces are probably going to be a better idea. Budget is always going to be a consideration, too, and you can talk with a local business like Boston Outdoor Living to find out more. It'd be smart to get a few samples of materials, lay them out, and see how they look next to your home.
Plus, think about how nature can be incorporated into your design. Maybe you prefer to have planters set up in certain spots, or maybe you'd love to have raised containers that can house herbs or flowers. You might even design your patio around trees that have already been established or those that you'd like to plant. This can add shade and visual interest.
Add some functionality
Building an outdoor patio gives you the opportunity to put in an outdoor kitchen, water feature, or fire pit. This can extend the functionality of your space and get you outdoors more often. If you love pizza, for example, have a pizza oven installed at the same time as your renovation. You could perhaps put a hot tub off to the side of a patio or have a fire pit as your main focal point.
It can be exciting to start thinking about patio ideas and how you'd like to get the most out of your outdoor space. Remember to be creative and think about your main priorities. To get more ideas about outdoor patio designs, follow TheHomeMag on Facebook and Instagram.
