A patio is an outdoor living space that can be a dining room, lounge, or entertainment area. It may be paved with concrete, wood, or stone and is often covered with an awning to protect the area from sun or rain.
Aside from providing a place to relax and entertain, a well-designed patio can also add value to your home. According to a recent study by the National Association of Realtors, homeowners who invest in a patio are more likely to recoup the money spent on the renovation when it comes time to sell their home.
Before tackling a new patio project, call 811 to have your yard marked for underground utilities. Make sure you aren’t disturbing gas, sewer, water, or electrical lines before beginning work.
Ultimately, how you use your patio is the most important consideration. Determine what your biggest priorities are and plan accordingly, ensuring you have enough space for the furniture you want and need. Don’t forget to account for scooting chairs and other furniture around to avoid cramped areas, as well as space for food prep and cooking on a grill or firepit.
Adding accent pieces to your patio is an easy way to personalize the space and make it feel like an extension of your home. Hanging planters, a few mirrors, and some wall art can be used to draw the eye up and open the space. Rugs, especially striped styles, can also help create an illusion of extra space.