A patio is a paved outdoor area adjoining a house at ground level, often used for dining or recreation. Patios are typically made of concrete, stone or brick but can also be constructed from pavers or tile. They are usually decorated with plants and other furnishings to create a comfortable and inviting space for relaxing or entertaining.
The size and shape of your patio will depend on its primary function, the architectural style of your home, and available space. Ideally, the patio should be a natural extension of your living areas and align with the overall design scheme of your yard. You may choose to go with a rectangular or elongated shape for your patio, or you may opt for a circular or octagonal layout that maximizes the number of seats around a central table. Robust, wide-bottomed furniture works best on most paving materials but consider the weight of any additional items you plan to include on your patio, such as a grill or fire pit.
Considering privacy and screening issues will also affect the design of your patio. Consider how close you will be to neighbors and the amount of foot traffic in the area, and assess whether any natural barriers such as trees, hedges or fences could help provide a sense of seclusion.
Patios can be framed by walls, trellises, arbors or pergolas to add structural interest and define the boundaries of the space. To make a patio feel like an extension of the house, you can build walls and ceilings out of the same materials as your exterior. You can also use natural stones or concrete to match the look of your patio with other outdoor elements, such as your driveway or garden beds.