Warmer days ahead, and it’s time to start thinking about your outdoor space. There are countless ways to transform your backyard—no matter the size. Building your patio involves forming an artistic vision and transforming that idea into reality. Ideally, it should look and feel like a natural extension of your home, and it should fit almost seamlessly into the landscape. However, there’s a lot involved in planning a patio layout, and looking at pictures for inspiration is a great way to start. And to help you dig into this outdoor overhaul, here are some tips for planning an outdoor living space.
1. Set your budget. You don’t only save for the project costs, but you also need to factor in the upkeep costs—for example, fountain or pond maintenance, landscaping, and other repair costs in the future.
2. Think about the climate where you live. If you live in a relatively cold and snowy area, spending more on a patio is not worth it. I live in Chicago, where we have nine months of chilly weather, and I don’t get to spend more time outside. Real bummer!
3. Envision how you will use your outdoor space. If you love cooking, you may want to put an outdoor kitchen or a griller. If you enjoy hosting and entertaining your friends, you might want to have a bar area. And in colder climates, think about installing a fire pit.
4. Consider comfort. If insects are an issue, install a screen-in porch or lanai enclosure. Also, don’t forget to provide ample shade ( umbrellas, awnings, and covered porches) and comfortable furniture you’ll want to sit on for hours.
5. Patio lighting. The key to creating a flawless patio light display is design. Start by measuring the dimensions of your space and choose a pattern that complements the size of your backyard. Ideally, you’ll place outdoor lights in key areas close to where you’ll be moving or operating at night. Also, outdoor lighting adds elegance to your space.
6. Place plants and flowers to liven up your outdoor space. Potted plants can transform a patio into a beautifully landscaped garden. Whether you seek colorful blooms, fragrant blossoms, or just a bit more privacy, plants can help you achieve the vibe you crave.
7. Add your favorite patio furniture and outdoor accessories. Well-thought-out patio furniture brings comfort and function to your outdoor spaces. With a spacious table and comfortable chairs, you can quickly transform them into a lovely alfresco dining experience. Go for easy-care outdoor furniture and accessorize them with cushions and fluffy pillows with removable covers that you can easily toss in the washing machine. Make sure all fabrics are weather-resistant to prevent color fading or mildew growth. You want to invest in quality patio furniture that is long-lasting and will add value to your home. Check out my recommendations below:
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SHOPPABLE PHOTOS
Designing a patio takes careful consideration of how you want to use it. Whether for social hubs furnished for dining and entertainment or an area for quiet moments of reflection to escape the stresses of the day, make your patio your new favorite hangout!
