A patio is a great place for outdoor dining, relaxing and entertaining. It can also act as a visual transition from the strict, crisp definition of a garden to its softer, more natural elements. Especially in urban areas where gardens tend to be exposed to passersby, a patio can provide a place of respite and a sense of privacy.
Patio size is a critical factor in the design of any landscape, and deciding on the right dimensions requires considering how you plan to use the space. It’s important to make sure there is enough room for your furniture and for guests to circulate around without bumping into each other or the table.
The type of furniture you choose can also influence the layout. Robust wood pieces may require more space than a sleek metal set, for example. And the material choice is important, too—a textured stone patio will look a bit different than a smooth concrete one.
Some regions also regulate the amount of permeable versus impermeable surfaces allowed in residential yards, so it’s crucial to check with your local building department before you begin construction. Additionally, if your project involves building over existing soil, you’ll need to have a site survey performed before beginning work.
Another consideration when designing a patio is the surrounding plants. Welsch advises keeping the area that borders a paved surface simple to make the paving stand out and to soften the edges of the hardscape. In this Southern California backyard by June Scott Design, a bluestone patio is framed by a low planting bed of white hydrangeas and Japanese forest grass that spill over the edges to blur the lines between the garden and paved surface.