Creating the Perfect Patio

May 20, 2021 50Plus Magazine

by Nathan Wright

Summer is here! Follow the slideshow to see the the elements that can transform your patio from average to fabulous.

INTERACTION WITH THE SUN It’s important to orient your patio to invite or evade solar rays. Some form of shade is a must on hot afternoons, and an arbor or covered area are ideal for striking the perfect balance between sun and shade.
PROPORTIONATELY SIZED A perfect patio is proportionately sized to the house and intended use, such as bulky outdoor furniture, gatherings and even games. Tiny house + giant patio or large house + postage-stamp patio look and feel odd. Perfect proportions evoke that “Ahhh” at first sight and provide enduring pride and pleasure.
PART OF THE HOUSE The patio is an extension of your home. A well-designed patio brings the light, color, and air of the outdoors inside and draws out interior elements such as cooking, dining and comfort. Dining areas can be as simple as a table and chairs, or more elaborate, with counters and appliances. The goal is creating a space in which you love to dwell.
THE OVERALL PLAN When planning, consider traffic flow, access points and work/play areas. You’ll want your outdoor kitchen, fireplace or fire pit out of the traffic path. Note how the space is divided, whether with garden walls, shelter structures, stairs, etc. Improper placement can impede traffic flow and hinder usability. Also consider the angles and position of the house to enhance contours of both home and patio. Curved/angled edges or terraces should follow elevation. If landscaping is being added at the same time, consider the effects once the landscaping matures. A misplaced tree or shrub can be a real issue later.
ALL ABOUT COMFORT Patio time is about relaxation. Comfortable, casual furniture creates a laid-back, restorative atmosphere. Great choices range from simple, inexpensive or homemade to more elaborate and expensive setups. Colors should complement the patio itself and furniture should be as durable as the patio pavers for lasting beauty.
PRIVACY Your patio is your sanctuary, and privacy is paramount. You might like a fence or a block wall built into the patio itself, or around your property boundary, depending on activities to come. Paving stones are the ultimate in durability. When installed properly, a paving stone patio can provide a lifetime of enjoyment.