14Jun
A well-designed patio helps you enjoy the outdoors without ever having to leave your home. It can serve as the ideal place to relax on a Saturday afternoon or provide an ambiance-filled gathering space for family and friends. It can even increase your home’s value.
For the secrets to designing a beautiful and functional patio that meets your needs and expresses your style, read on!
Selecting The Right Furniture – For You
Furniture can make or break a patio. Beautiful, comfortable, coordinated furniture is inviting while poorly-made uncomfortable and mismatched pieces can be a turn-off. As a result, it’s important to take time to make good choices.
Before purchasing patio furniture, think about how you want to use your space. Do you want to eat outside or simply soak up some sun? Will you spend most of your patio time alone or share it with others?
Smaller patios usually have a single function while larger spaces may have several areas with different purposes.
When you’re ready to buy, invest in good quality furniture. Cheaper items tend to be uncomfortable and simply don’t last as long as higher-quality pieces. You’ll save both time and money in the long run by investing in quality from the get-go.
Also consider how much your furniture will be exposed to sun, wind, and rain. Look for durable materials that won’t rust, break down quickly or soak up water.
Arranging Your Patio Furniture
Once you know the type of furniture you need, the next step is planning where to put it. Make sure you measure your patio space and research furniture sizes.
Here are a few more tips to consider.
Find a Focal Point
Arranging your patio furniture around a focal point helps unify the overall design. Your focal point could be a stunning view, a table, a fire pit, artwork, and more.
Take Traffic Patterns into Account
Think about how people will move around the space. If you’re planning a dining area, make sure you can easily access it from the kitchen.
Also ensure that furniture or décor isn’t blocking access to important areas.
Reflect on Sun and Shade
Observe when your patio is in the sun and shade at different times of the day. Will the space be enjoyable during the time you most want to use it? Umbrellas are essential for most patio spaces.
Define Your Style
Once you know what furniture you need and where it will go, determine which style you prefer. Do you favour sleek, modern décor, or something more rustic? The patio is an extension of your home and should fit in with design choices you’ve already made.
Here are some popular styles.
Modern
A modern style is typified by clean lines and neutral colours. It is refined and timeless.
Look for furniture with simple lines, no embellishments or curlicues. Keep both furniture and accessories to a minimum.
Rustic
This back-to-nature approach emphasizes natural materials with rougher textures and earthy colours. It projects a cozy, warm vibe.
For the rustic look, seek out wood or wicker. A stone firepit can add charm and warmth in cooler months.
Coastal
Bring the beach to your backyard with a more relaxed, coastal vibe.
Use the sea to inspire your palette. Sandy beige and pale blue are staples in this style.
Accessorize with fish or nautical-themed accents including starfish, stripes, and anchors.
Choosing Materials
Now it’s time to look at materials. Patio furniture can be made from a variety of materials alone or in combination to meet different needs.
Polymer
Polymer/recycled plastic furniture is a popular option. It’s cost-effective, durable, and light. It doesn’t rust and you don’t need to worry about mold. It’s also very easy to maintain.
And just because it’s plastic doesn’t mean it can’t be stylish. The brands we work with offer high-quality furniture that doesn’t compromise on aesthetics.
This material works best with modern or coastal styles.
Wood
Wood is a classic option with enduring appeal. And yes, it can be used effectively for patio furniture.
Look for pieces made of teak, eucalyptus, or cedar. These types of wood can last for decades if you are prepared to put in some annual care.
Wood furniture works especially well with rustic and coastal looks.
Wicker
Wicker is another popular choice due to its light weight and durability. If you plan to store your furniture in a shed or garage, or need flexible seating arrangements, wicker is a great way to go.
Wicker generally lasts 10-15 years with proper care and comes in a variety of styles and colours. It works best with coastal or rustic styles.
Metal
Patio furniture can be made entirely of metal or used in conjunction with other materials such as wicker or wood.
Aluminum and wrought iron are both popular options. Aluminum is lightweight and easy to move while wrought iron has classic appeal.
Known for its durability, metal can last a long time. Aluminum is typically good for up to 25 years, while some wrought iron pieces have been known to last over 50 years with regular maintenance.
Metal is a great option for modern or coastal styles.
Don’t Forget Seasonal Décor!
Even in Ottawa, your outdoor oasis can be used year-round either for gatherings or visual appeal if you don’t want to brave the cold. Using seasonal décor can help you to celebrate each phase of the passing year.
In the summer, break out some flags for a Canada Day barbecue or add patio lanterns for a glowing ambiance.
In the fall, you may use pumpkins or wreaths.
Cranberry luminaries can glow up a winter scene while flowers or bunny decorations can help you embrace spring when it finally arrives.
The Takeaway
Many people have a back yard, but fewer take the time and effort to create a true oasis. Those who do find their effort and investment pay off handsomely, not only in increased property value, but also in treasured moments.
Ready to uplevel your home’s outdoor space? Get in touch today to find out how we can help you build your dream patio.