A beautifully-designed patio adds an entirely new dimension to the outdoor living experience. Whether it be for early morning breakfasts or summer weekend gatherings, designing a patio requires many considerations and choices.
Beginning by sketching out your space on graph paper. Doing this will enable you to understand the dimensions and arrangement of furniture within it.
Budget
Remodeling or updating a patio doesn’t need to be costly, with several ways you can reduce costs. Reusing items already owned such as repainting metal furniture with weather-resistant paint or reupholstering overstuffed pillows giving them new life is one way. Another cost-cutting strategy is shopping thrift stores, yard sales or discount retailers where statement pieces may add character.
Enhance the atmosphere of your patio without breaking the bank by using plants and greenery to add an inviting ambience. Look for budget-friendly options at local nurseries or cultivate seeds yourself from seeds; string lights and solar-powered lanterns can create a soft, welcoming ambiance.
Your patio furnishings cost may also depend on the quality and durability of materials you select, such as plastic chairs. Although inexpensive pieces may look appealing at first glance, cheap patio furniture won’t withstand exposure to the elements and may need replacing more frequently; ornate pieces featuring intricate details or wrought iron details tend to last much longer and cost more than generic plastic chairs.
If you plan to host parties on your patio, make sure that there is adequate seating and space for guests. For added fun and affordability, create a play area for children including playhouse, swings or sandbox.
Layout
Laying out your patio should reflect how you intend to use it. Your choice of focal point, such as a fire pit or coffee table, should guide this decision; once selected, make it the focal point by positioning seating and chairs around it while keeping traffic patterns and walkways in mind.
Create a cozy retreat by layering seating with plush pillows from DecorMatters that help guests unwind and take in the sights. If your patio features stunning scenery, choose chairs facing it so no one misses seeing the sunset! Create dining area complete with side table for drinks so everyone can join in the conversation easily.
Materials
Consider durability and maintenance requirements when selecting materials for your patio. Metal furniture can rust if left exposed to rain and moisture; weather-resistant wicker and rattan furniture is much longer lasting with proper care; choose one that complements both your outdoor style and budget!
If you prefer a modern aesthetic, combine different materials when designing your patio. This will add visual interest and cost-cutting measures by selecting multiple materials instead of settling for one material alone. For instance, using pavers, flagstone, pea gravel and concrete together to form unique patterns could make an elegant statement or you could choose more durable natural stone or slate instead for the entire area.
Some individuals prefer more classic materials like wrought iron and aluminum for their patio furniture. These pieces can be very stylish while remaining lightweight for easy transportation or storage purposes. Unfortunately, bare metals are susceptible to rusting so for optimal results it’s wiser to purchase pieces with protective finishes like paint or another coating material applied as protection from this potential issue.
Plastic resin and PVC patio furniture come in an assortment of colors and styles. Some feature smooth lines inspired by current indoor trends while others boast oblique lines to add artistic flare. While less costly than their rattan or iron counterparts, these plastic resin/PVC chairs do not last as long or offer the same durability.
If you prefer something luxurious, wrought iron or stainless steel patio furniture might be worth considering. Though often more costly, with proper care these pieces will last decades.
Maintenance
if you own an abundance of outdoor furniture and cushions, it is crucial that they are cleaned and stored appropriately before winter sets in. Make sure that they are placed in a cool, dry space away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations to prevent warping or fading; garages, basem*nts or storage sheds make suitable locations. Garages, basem*nts or dedicated sheds may also work. Your Patio Store suggests giving metal patio furniture an additional light cleaning before storage in order to remove dirt and grime while adding a protective wax coating periodically for extra protection.
Make sure your furniture is off of the ground to avoid moisture and pests, and ensure your cushions and pillows are completely dry before storing to prevent mold or mildew growth. Finally, store wooden furniture indoors under a tarp to protect it from rain or snowfall.
