After making it through a very cold, very long winter, we have loved being able to open our windows and doors to let in some fresh air and sunshine.
Our next step? Preparing our outdoor living spaces so that they are inviting, layered, and liveable. By blending comfort, style, and durability, the patio becomes a bonus room where all are welcome and where you’ll find yourself and your guests lingering–from a peaceful early morning coffee pause to an all-ages evening get together with friends.
Here’s how we make the magic happen:
Consider your crew, and be intentional with your design.
Not sure where to start in the design process? Imagine an ideal day on the patio and think about who will be spending time there. Do you want one area where everything can take place? Or do you want to create different zones that can accommodate multiple activities like lounging, dining, and gathering?
If you have little ones who need constant looking after, the former may make more sense. If you are entertaining a larger crowd that spans teens and adults, the latter might better serve you. An interior designer can help you envision and implement a patio that serves multiple needs.
Situate your space within the greater outdoors.
Let the natural setting guide some of your design choices. Perhaps you’ll arrange some chairs so that they face in the direction of a garden in bloom or a particularly picturesque tree…or so that they face away from a neighbor’s giant trampoline. If you are designing a patio in an urban setting, think about adding planters for pops of green and rolldown shades or decorative that adds a little privacy.
The best design plans are ones that can be changed according to your needs (or what you’d like to draw attention to), so consider furniture that can be somewhat easily moved and that all “work” together aesthetically.
Invest in good materials and fabrics.
Restrain yourself from purchasing a patio set that’s on a hot holiday sale because it’ll be “good for now.” You’ll regret it when you get less than a season’s use before it starts to fall apart. Choose materials that develop character over time rather than wear out. Teak, wrought iron, and natural stone offer durability while reinforcing a timeless aesthetic.
For outdoor seating options, choose deep seating, performance fabrics, and cushions that hold their shape while withstanding the elements. Lounging for hours on the patio can and should feel just as comfortable as indoor living. With all the amazing aesthetic options available now, you can find colors and patterns that match your style seamlessly.
Working with an interior designer can help streamline your choices; designers can rely on past projects and experience to recommend and source from reputable vendors.
Make the patio an around-the-clock destination.
Depending on where you live, the amount of time of year that you can use your patio may be somewhat short. Maximize your outside time by making it appealing day to night. Layer lanterns, sconces, or string lighting to create a warm, inviting glow without overpowering the space. Incorporate side tables so that people have a place to set their iced tea or wine and add cute and functional coasters as needed. Have sunscreen and bug spray nearby so that you don’t have to interrupt the fun and go searching for them. Keep blankets accessible for cozying up when the sun sets.
Get ready to gather and to relax.
Outdoor entertaining is inherently less stressful than throwing a get-together indoors since you don’t need to spend hours tidying up your kitchen or living spaces, kids feel more free to explore and play, and everyone benefits from simply being outside. You can actually feel your cortisol levels drop and the dopamine boost in your brain after a few minutes!
When you create a patio that has flow and space for people to gather and also to reconfigure themselves in small groups, your family and guests will feel at ease to show up and be together just as they are. Knowing everyone is enjoying themselves in a well-designed outdoor space will, in turn, make you feel relaxed and ready to make the most of your patio time.
