A patio is a great place for outdoor relaxation and entertaining. However, it needs to be functional and comfortable, with the right size and layout to accommodate all of your desired activities. It’s also essential to incorporate plants and hardscape elements that enhance your patio’s aesthetic, while promoting its primary function—safety and privacy.
A Patio Isn’t a Porch
Many people use the terms patio and porch interchangeably, but they are not the same. The technical difference is that a porch is attached to the front or back of a home, while a patio is typically a paved area detached from a house. Some patios are even set farther back into the garden than the foundation of the house and may have features such as pathways, retaining walls and plantings incorporated in their design.
Patio Size
A good starting point for determining the ideal size of a patio is the furniture you plan to include, as well as the activities you want to enjoy in your outdoor space. For example, a dining table will require ample space to fit a variety of chairs, and you’ll also need room to move around the table when guests are seated. It’s also a good idea to factor in a little extra room for foot traffic and the size of outdoor furniture, which tends to be larger than standard indoor furnishings.
For a more decorative look, consider adding a layer of pavers to the bottom of your patio’s surface. This will provide a subtle contrast to the surrounding grass and can make your patio feel more grounded and anchored, without requiring as much maintenance as a traditional concrete or brick patio. You can also try a more natural, earthy look with a wood patio, although this requires regular cleaning and care to keep it looking its best.