Top 5 patio and awning ideas
A well-designed outdoor area can expand the amount of living space you can enjoy. Patios can be great places to enjoy some fresh air, and awnings can enhance these areas. Keep reading to learn about five ideas for patios and awnings.
1. Add a retractable awning
An awning can provide sought-after shade and shelter, so it allows you to use your patio whether it's raining or sunny. A nice thing about a retractable awning is that it can be closed up when the weather is ideal or when you don't anticipate being outside. This can help you keep it safe and protect it from damage. A retractable awning can be motorized or manually operated. Motorized awnings typically come with remote controls for convenience.
2. Add some heat
Fire pits draw a lot of attention and can be perfect gathering spots. A fire pit can add warmth and extra character to your patio. If you put an awning over the fire pit, you can use it year-round. A contractor can help you install a gas fire pit that would be safe to use and easy to operate. That contractor can also set you up with the right type of seating and hardscape around that fire pit.
3. Install a pergola with a patio
A pergola is an outdoor feature that typically has an open crossbeam roof, and it can be freestanding or connected to your house. It can provide a certain amount of shade, but obviously, a lot of sunlight can get through the gaps in the beams. Additionally, rain can come through quite easily. To give your pergola more structure, think about adding an awning to it. An awning could be permanently attached so that it drapes over the pergola, or it could be a retractable version. A professional team, like the ones at Custom Outdoor Concepts or Struxure Outdoor, could work with you to customize a design to fit your space.
4. Go simple with a sunshade
If you're looking for something more affordable, a sunshade might be ideal. While this type of shade can be relatively easy to put up, it would be wise to ask a contractor for assistance because you may have to drill into the side of your home or you may need to put up a post in order to anchor the shade properly. You'll want to be careful about how you go about this project so you don't damage anything and so you can be sure your shade is securely installed.
5. Think natural
To give yourself a small nature retreat in your backyard, you could consider getting a gravel patio or one that has a water feature, such as a small fountain, incorporated into it. Further, you could work with a contractor to integrate plants into your patio to give it a lusher look.
Consider upgrading your outdoor space with one or more of these ideas. If you'd like to explore other options, follow TheHomeMag on Facebook and Instagram.