Building or re-building your patio, or any outdoor living space can be a struggle to get started but with some tips and ideas, it could be easier than you think!
Something to consider – Beginning your journey with a deck builder or designer may start with choosing your patio colors, shape, and size… but before all of that, you need to consider what your space will be used for. Do you picture yourself entertaining into the night with friends or do you see a more intimate setting for dinners with family? Or maybe sunbathing with a good book is more your speed, planning these things first will ensure your outdoor living area becomes the space you dreamed of!
Furniture layout & utilizing the space you have – Not only are there hundreds of furniture designs and colors available to you, there are just as many configurations you can arrange the furniture into and this can be one of the most overwhelming aspects when planning and purchasing your outdoor furniture. Again, after the initial thought of how you will be utilizing your outdoor patio, take time to decide where you want the focal point of your space to be and build around that. If your backyard is attached to an ally way or close in proximity to your neighbors – you may want your focal point to be a fire table or water feature, or just simply each other, creating a circle of lounge chairs or a small sectional would be ideal in this setting. If you are fortunate enough to have a creek, lake, or larger backyard, setting up your furniture in a conversational configuration facing away from your home will offer the best views and allow for more seating by sectioning off areas! For smaller spaces, you can now combine dining and lounging with one of the many innovative sectional designs!
Entrances and Exits – Don’t let this be an afterthought when designing your space. Placement of your walkways is crucial to a well-functioning space. Depending on the size and placement of your patio, you may want to consider adding two entrances apart from the entrance to your home. Envision how you would like to have your furniture placed and leave at least 3 feet on either side of any entrance(s). This will allow for better flow throughout the area and provide ample space for planters or end tables. Quick tip *When calculating your outdoor furniture placement we recommend at least 2’ minimum walkway between any furniture and coffee or fire tables, three feet is ideal!
Structural touches to enhance any outdoor space – Privacy screens are a great way to provide solitude for you and your guests, these eye-catching statement pieces can be patio or ground-mounted or remain portable and with many beautiful handcrafted designs, these can be that wow factor you are looking for! Along with screens, built-in planters are another great way to create a uniform style throughout your patio. Interchangeable inserts give you the ability to change out plants as you see fit over the changing seasons or to incorporate forever florals for easy care and maintenance plant. If you know you will be entertaining after dusk, determine how your space will be lit, fire tables and solar lighting are a great way to add ambiance and warmth to your outdoor areas and should be carefully planned out. Wall-mounted sconces can highlight paths and doorways and overhead lighting comes in a multitude of lighting option so it is important to know if and how many electrical outlets you will need in your outdoor space. If you need to have a gas line installed at the time of construction, ensure you get the results you are envisioning.
When to get the best deals – Depending on whether you are hiring a contractor to build your patio or if you’re more of a DIY-er, the best time to purchase material or book a build is in fall at the end of the season!. Most companies are looking to sell off all of its stock or might have stock leftover that is perfectly fine but discontinued for the upcoming year and if you plan it just right by purchasing your furniture and booking your build at the end of the season the savings will add up fast!
Get creative with your design & truly make it yours!
