Spending time outdoors is one of life’s greatest pleasures. We can think of no better way to spend a day or night than under the sun or stars in a backyard haven of our own. But if your present patio is less than perfect (or non-existent), you may not be making the most of these moments. The good news? Your dream outdoor space is within your reach. Read on for our handy four-part guide to conceptualizing and bringing to life your perfect backyard patio design.
1. Assess Your Wants and Needs
In order to design the backyard patio that best suits your lifestyle, you must first consider your goals for how the space will function. Do you plan on entertaining frequently, or are you envisioning more of a private retreat for relaxation and restoration? Are you hoping to extend the use of this space into multiple seasons? Taking the time to ask these questions can help guide both the overall exterior design as well as the specific patio furniture selection.
It’s also important to consider both the space and the desired layout before buying furniture. While there are apps available to help with this task, many people rely on a surprisingly simple method: a paper mockup. Whichever way you go, this can help you land on an ideal arrangement. A few tips for arranging patio furniture? Decide on a focal point that will serve as the heart of your patio, consider the flow of traffic, and create different “zones” for different activities, such as cooking, eating, and socializing.
2. Consider Both Form and Function
The best furniture must be able to withstand the test of time – especially outdoor furniture which will be exposed to weather conditions ranging from the burning hot sun to wind and rain.
In addition to being durable, furniture must also be comfortable. When shopping for outdoor lounge chairs and other modern outdoor seating options, make sure they have soft, plush, and lightweight cushions. Not only will these be more pleasant to sit on, but they’ll dry out more quickly after getting wet while also resisting mold and mildew.
Speaking of mold- and mildew-resistance, also look for furniture made of easy-care materials requiring little weather treatment. Aluminum, plastic, PVC, rattan, and wicker are all excellent choices capable of holding up to whatever extreme weather comes their way.
But comfort, durability, and easy-care are not the only concerns. Our environments directly impact how we feel, and your choice of patio furniture can make or break your outdoor patio aesthetic. Choosing a color scheme is a great place to start when it comes to narrowing down your options. If you’re looking to create an especially serene space, neutral shades like whites and taupes set a tranquil tone, while black is sleek, modern, and always in style. If you’re hoping for a more tropical and cheerful vibe, we love vibrant pops of color in oranges, blues, and greens – all of which are a wonderful way to add a little oomph.
3. Put a Premium on Quality
While high-end furniture may cost more upfront than cheaper options, it’s worth it in the long run as it will last longer thanks to the use of high-quality materials and techniques. Just as when you shop for interior furniture, think of high-end outdoor furniture not as an expense, but as an investment in your home and quality of life.
Not only is luxury outdoor furniture more likely to see you through subsequent seasons, but you’re probably planning on spending a lot of time in your space. So, wouldn’t you rather be surrounded by chic outdoor furniture rather than shoddy paint finishes, sloppy welding, and wobbly casters?
4. Accessories, Please!
Choosing the right furniture and arranging it perfectly is a critical part of your patio design, but far from the only part. Another integral part of the design process? Bring in accessories to make the space feel more dynamic and alive. Brightly colored area rugs, festive throw pillows, lush greenery, and lighting – both for safety and to create ambiance – are all simple ways to enhance the look and feel of your patio. A firepit is also an excellent addition that adds warmth and coziness on cooler nights.
An outdoor room is an exciting addition to any home. However, all exterior spaces are not created equal. This guide can help you design and furnish a backyard patio that speaks to your unique sense of style while simultaneously enriching how you live in your home.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
