Patio planning considerations

When planning your patio, think about where you want everything to be, from the chairs and tables to the where any cooking apparatus will sit, and think carefully about the shape and size.

Plan ahead

Picture yourself within it and try to imagine what it will look like on completion. Thinking and planning ahead will give you food for thought and allow you time to consider any disadvantages, how certain parts will fit in, and which bits won’t, and gradually your patio will start to take shape. The person you bring in to handle your patio installation will take into consideration all that you require from it, your personal tastes and what the space allocated allows. If you’re planning on fixed amenities it is even more important to have a rough layout first.

A patio to compliment inside & outside your house

Your patio has to compliment what’s behind it as well as what’s in front, the indoor area and the outdoor. Permanent seating also has to be taken into consideration and any space allocated for plants. You’ll also have to figure in any other items, such as a large boulder, or a place for chairs and table to complement the permanent seating.

Light and fire

After dark, a fire is an atmospheric addition to a patio, and it’s entirely up to you whether you have a more dramatic flame feature, or opt for a less dramatic focal point such as a wood fire pit. They may not be a priority for you as they’re not of much use during the day, and if you’re in an exposed area and it’s prone to strong wind, then you may decide it’s not worth the effort.

Entertaining on a patio

Grills or barbecues are always a great option for a patio and can provide heat and warmth without the need for a fire. They can demand more space from your patio area, but it really depends on how much entertaining you think you’re going to do. Go with what feels right and what’s practical for your needs.

Patio seating

As well as permanent seating, you may want to allocate space for other furniture such as dining table and chairs, and you may want to create intelligently thought out space for groupings of people, where it’s easier to talk and socialise. At the same time, try to avoid spaces which are too cramped and overcrowded.

What do you want to see from your patio?

Think about the views you want to see while enjoying your patio. The way you orient your patio will pretty much determine how much of the view you’ll get to enjoy. You can even create a view if you don’t already have one, you could plant a tree or build a fountain where it can be seen from the patio. There are ways you can create a good view and mask ugly spots at the same time, as well as a fountain you could consider a hedge, fence or a screen.

As the weather changes…

Consider the changing weather conditions throughout the year for your patio. Create hotspots for watching nature, birds and save a corner where it gets particularly warm in summer for a hotspot during barbecues and other gatherings.

Brian’s Garden and Fencing Services – patio installation specialists

If you’re looking to build a patio in your home, get in touch with us here at Brian’s Garden and Fencing Services where one of our professional team members will be able to help you find the right materials and design for your garden.