Don’t settle for a plain patio. By making a few improvements, you can turn this space into an inviting outdoor oasis. Below are a few different features to consider that could have practical benefits, while also wowing guests and potentially boosting your property’s value.
Fire
Fire can provide natural warmth and be used for outdoor cooking. Beyond investing in a barbecue, consider additional features such as a fire pit, a chiminea or even an outdoor fireplace. When the temperature drops, you can huddle around the fire with your family and friends. Make sure to pay attention to safety – avoid placing a fire pit under a canopy and keep flammable furniture away. Chimineas and fixed fireplaces with chimneys will help to direct smoke up and away from people’s eyes, while fire pits can provide warmth in all directions. This Good Homes guide offers more information on outdoor heating options.
Water
Water could be another element to play around with. A small pond could be a pretty decorative feature to add next to or within a patio – you could keep pet fish in it or even install water features like fountains and waterfalls to add some ambiance. If you live somewhere with a warm climate, you could also consider installing a plunge pool to give you somewhere to cool off (more affordable than a swimming pool and suitable for smaller backyards). For patios in cool climates, you could alternatively consider splashing out on a hot tub for some hydrotherapy.
Lighting
Adding lighting will allow you to sit out on your patio after dark. You can hang lanterns and string lighting from fences and awnings or you can install ground lighting. Such lighting could be solar powered or it could be connected to your home with cables. You could even use candles for more rustic low level lighting. Try to place lighting in key areas where you are likely to hang out in the evening.
Shade
If your patio gets too much sunlight during the day, having some shade might also be handy. Companies like Liberty Home Products can help you install retractable awnings or zipper shades. Alternatively, you can build a pergola over your patio to provide dappled shade or a gazebo to provide fuller shelter. Other solutions could include patio umbrellas in tables, which can be easily put up or taken down depending on the weather.
Comfort
In order to truly relax on your patio, you need comfortable seating. Instead of using cheap plastic chairs, invest in some sturdier furniture made from wicker or metal. It’s possible to buy outdoor lounge suites made up of sofas and armchairs with waterproof cushions – these can turn your patio into a second living room. You could also add loungers for sunbathing and perhaps even benches or swing seats for reading on. Think about how many people are likely to use your patio at once and make sure there is enough seating so that people aren’t left hovering. Throw away furniture that is badly damaged before guests start collapsing through chairs and make sure to keep seats clean.
