A patio is a paved outdoor recreation area that can be attached to the house or freestanding. It is often a shady space, but may have a roof or no walls. It can serve as a relaxing retreat, a dining or gathering spot or both.
A patio can be shaped symmetrically to the house, asymmetrical or curved to flow with the garden. Wherever it is positioned, it should create a balance between the hardscape of paving and the softscape of the surrounding plants.
Consider the furniture and amenities you intend to include in your patio design, including tables and chairs, barbecue grills, fire pits, water features, and more. These can have a major impact on the size of the paving and overall layout of the area. Also, don’t forget to factor in the size of your outdoor furniture (which is typically larger than indoor furniture), as this will influence seating capacity and traffic flow.
A well-designed patio can be a great addition to your home. By carefully determining the purpose of your patio, selecting the best materials for your climate, and planning for furnishings and amenities that will suit it, you can create a shady and inviting retreat in your backyard.