Patio Design

What important factors should be considered in patio design?

Patio size, usage, layout and materials all can lead to a myriad of choices to review with your landscape designer.

Determining how your patio will be used is the first step. If its use is entertaining groups al fresco it should be determined how many people the area needs to accommodate, not for just obvious reasons of knowing how large the patio should be, moreover for layout and flow of the overall outdoor area. More elaborate outdoor entertaining including cooking and food preparation areas, wet bar, and furniture will be essential factors to decide and discuss with your landscape designer.

A general guideline in determining appropriate size for whichever purpose is to figure 5-8 square feet per person and 80-90 square feet for a table and four chairs. Points of access and traffic flow are also factors a landscape designer will consider in your plan.

City Codes also play a part in determining patio layout and location. For example, if a fire pit is part of the design some ordinances may restrict how close in proximity it can be to the house. Or if its use will be mainly for relaxation then it may be better suited in a tranquil garden or wooded area.

Already we see how these factors are intertwined and important in creating your outdoor environment and we have yet to determine what materials to use. The choices are endless. Two important tips when selecting materials for your new patio are:

• Have a budget in mind
• Be open to different materials.

Also, keep in mind pictures of material can be deceptive so go to a local nursery or landscape supply company where you can actually see the different choices first hand. Bring pictures of your house to align colors, textures and patterns. Often clients will ask to have the same patio brick as the brick on the façade of their home, but this is difficult to do especially with an older home because either the brick is no longer made or it has weathered and the color has faded. If you get too close in color but not exact, you may be creating what appears to be a mismatch. Attempt to compliment the stone or brick on your home rather than match it.

The cost of creating a new patio varies greatly depending upon your material. From the lower price range of plain brushed concrete to natural stone on the higher-end. Natural stone is timeless and beautiful. Consider the many different types that will enhance and complement the façade of your home, as well as style. For a more formal look, consider slate and limestone, which is linear in shape. Or conversely the use of irregular limestone or Fond du Lac is widely used for a more natural look. There are also some great new products on the market that resemble natural stone but at a reduced cost.

Pavers are another option and they come in many different colors, shapes and patterns. Tumbled pavers are a great choice when trying to achieve a rustic or natural look. Pavers are generally priced somewhere between the cost of plain brushed concrete and natural stone.

Decorative concrete is another option. The beauty of decorative concrete is that there are many colors and patterns to choose from. You can even combine colors and patterns to create a custom look. The cost for decorative concrete is usually comparable to pavers.

Patios are a great way to enhance your family's living space. Carefully consider the patio's use, size, location and materials. And don't forget to choose materials that will complement the style and façade of your home. Contact Pine to Prairie today to learn more about creating the perfect patio design for your family!