Inspiration for Decorating the Patio

Written by  //  May 31, 2014  //  Decks  //  Comments Off on Inspiration for Decorating the Patio

A sunny patio or a comfortably shaded terraced area can really enhances a property. The idea of relaxing and socializing outdoors is appealing to many and designing the perfect space to achieve such a result is quite easy. Making the most of outdoor/indoor space simply requires a clear view of how it is to be used coupled with a little imagination. Here are a few ideas to help you to enjoy life in your outdoor home.

Meeting and greeting

Anyone with even the smallest outdoor space can enjoy a social gathering with friends or neighbors. Today’s patio furniture is sufficiently elegant and comfortable to emulate the most sophisticated drawing rooms and salons. Sofa sets and coffee tables in wicker and rattan are stylish as well as practical, being weatherproof and often include chairs and footstools with contrasting cushions featuring removable covers. Add a few planters with pretty flowers or striking foliage plants and a patio heater or chimenea for extra warmth if needed and the patio will be a home from home.

Eat, drink and be merry

Al fresco dining signals that summer really is here and smart dining sets often include a pretty parasol for protective shade. Try creating a theme around an outside dining area, perhaps using lanterns with candles for atmosphere and wall decorations such as sunflowers or butterflies to brighten up relatively dull stone or brickwork. These decorations are generally weatherproof and easy to affix.

Barbecues are indispensable for patio dining and can be traditional or contemporary according to personal taste. If space permits and local weather is fairly predictable a built-in brick barbecue makes a good focal point on a patio. Alternatively, a wide variety of gas-fired, charcoal-burning or disposable types are readily available. There is even a mini barbecue that fits over a balcony rail and looks exactly like a window box normally used for displaying flowers. This is a great idea for those who have a very small outdoor area.

Green choices

Open terraces without shade can be great places on which to grow plants; perhaps in window boxes or in pots and planters. Arranging them in the best way to achieve an attractive display is easy, simply make sure taller plants are at the back of the group and remember to change pots around according to the seasons. When spring flowers, such as primula, daffodils and tulips have finished, make sure summer blooms, such as miniature roses and asters have pride of place.

Structural changes

Patio spaces can benefit enormously from added structures, such as pergolas or archways. Since a pergola is basically a frame, it can be handled in a wide variety of ways; some people grow climbing plants up and over the entire structure, while others drape awnings to form a roof and one or more ‘walls’ to provide additional shade. Colored lanterns look pretty when strung along overhead pergola struts and it is always possible to string up a hammock between two uprights if an afternoon nap is called for.

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