The right patio size is key to creating a garden that works for your lifestyle. Whether you want to host large garden parties or cozy dinners for two, the size of your space will determine the number and kind of furniture you need, as well as other important details like kitchen amenities and fire pit dimensions.
Start by determining your biggest priorities. Look for inspiration online or in books, talk to friends, and see how you can visualize your ideal outdoor space. Once you have a clear idea of what you want to accomplish, write it down in a list with the most important items at the top and less desirable features at the bottom. This list will help you throughout the design process and determine the patio size you need.
If your patio abuts the house, it can be difficult to create a cohesive look between the hardscape and softscape of your yard. However, if the patio is free-standing, you can choose a sinuous, curved, or sculpted edge to create a more subtle and natural transition from your brickwork to the lawn or flower beds.
Likewise, you can also choose a different paving material than your home for a more personal touch. Gone are the days when you were limited to simple rectangles, but instead there is an amazing array of stone and other paving materials available. In fact, larger spaces actually work better with a mixture of different materials and designs.