Outdoor leisure living is a common trend among homeowners. According to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association in 2009, the leisure lifestyle industry is a $6.2 billion business. By adding comfortable design settings for relaxation and entertaining, living space can be extended beyond a home's four walls. Add to the fact that portable heaters can extend outdoor living into a three season retreat, patio design can be well worth the effort and cost.
Design Construction
Think about the usage of your patio areas. Decide on a budget, what you can do on your own and what will require professional help.
Think about location, as most patios are adjacent to the home, outside a family room or kitchen area. Other homeowners prefer quiet garden areas, reached by meandering paths or stone walkways. Pool area patios serve many purposes, from sunbathing to entertaining and grilling.
Patio surfaces can range from simple mulched or pea stone areas, to poured concrete, patio blocks, tile, brick, stone pavers or even wood planks. Usage, preference and budget will dictate which you choose.
Pergolas, gazebos, arbors, sail shades and trellises can all be incorporated into you patio design. Surround sound systems, bar areas, fireplaces and fire pits are great additions. Built in seating and benches can create and define intimate areas and function. Plan for utilities such as electricity for lighting and appliance; water for outdoor sinks and gas for outdoor kitchens will be necessary based on design.
Outdoor Kitchens
If you entertain, enjoy cooking and meals outdoors, an outdoor kitchen is a smart addition to your outdoor space. Adding a kitchen can be as simple as a charcoal or gas grill area, to a full-blown kitchen island with a refrigerator, warming oven, sink and cook top. There's no limit to the amenities possible.
Conversation/Relaxation areas
The size of your patio area will determine the type of seating and grouping. Large patios can provide areas for sunbathing and larger chaise lounges.
Settee, chairs and side tables can be arranged into a conversation grouping, under a pergola, small ornamental shade tree or in a gazebo. A garden bench swing can add a whimsical accent under an arbor or in a gazebo.
When it comes to dining sets there are varied styles found in plastic, iron, aluminum and wood which can add a dramatic element to your patio dining. Weather-proof cushions and pillows are available in all textures, colors and patterns to provide an inviting enticement to sit and relax.
Hot Tub and Bars
Nothing beats a relaxing hot soak beneath stars. Portable hot tubs set upon a patio or sunken in wooden decking create a relaxing oasis. Positioned near a fire pit with surround sound stereo and you'll have a quiet romantic setting for two or an inviting activity for friends and family.
Outdoor bars can run from portable units, to built-ins with features such as sinks and refrigerators.
Accents and Lighting
Depending upon your decorating tastes, there are many design to choose from. Contemporary designs --crisp white cushions and clean lines-to country living with rustic furnishings, creative ideas are limitless.
Tiki torch lighting add a tropical feel, while brass or copper candle lanterns provide a warm, homelike ambiance. Various designs in electric or gas lamp posts can be installed: strands of mini lights attached to shrubbery or along gazebo and pergola ceilings or a chandelier lit caba#xF1;a.
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