Hardscaping Ideas

5 Creative Patio Ideas

Patios are the perfect way of integrating the outdoors with the indoors.

Patio designs can range from the simple to the complex depending on your tastes and budget.

With a little bit of creative ingenuity you can turn your patio into a place of fun, relaxation, and enjoyment in the company of friends and family as well. Or else it can be your own little piece of solitude. Whichever your preference is, in just a few hours you can turn your patio into an entirely different space from what it currently is.

The size and shape of the patio will be of prime importance when redecorating it.

The first thing to ponder about would be what exactly you want to put in on your patio.

Once this is decided, you can proceed with the rest of the project.

Putting the design on paper and listing out the required materials will help you plan better.

An Outdoor Kitchen

If you are someone who likes to cook or entertain friends with lunch or dinner, then you might want to consider converting your patio into an outdoor kitchen. You can put in a grill or even cooking range depending on your budget. A small refrigerator or inbuilt cooler could also be one of the features. If you live in a cool climate, you might even want to put in a small fireplace for warm, cozy, evenings by the fire.

A Peaceful Retreat

If you are looking for some peace and quiet or seeking a place to unwind after a stressful day at work, you could put in a comfortable swing with soft cushions. A quaint old rocker with a footstool is yet another option in this case. Place some planters also and bring out a nice, hot cup of coffee to sip while you swing. This is a good option for a patio with a spectacular view such as the mountains or a lake. Sitting on your patio and looking at the amazing scenery will act like a soothing balm on frayed nerves any day.

A Water Abode

Putting in a pool or a fountain is yet another way of redecorating your patio. The type of water body you choose will depend on the available space and resources at your disposal. A pool with loungers and huge umbrellas can bring the beach to your home any day. A spa can also be incorporated along with your pool. If this is not within your means, a small waterfall cascading over rocks can be incorporated on some part of your patio. This will give an elegant touch to your property and turn into a focal point for visitors.

Create a Paved Patio

You can choose to put in concrete pavers of different shapes, sizes, and colors or use other materials such as cobblestone, brick, tile, and granite depending on the kind of look you are attempting. Besides traditional shapes, pavers are also found in free form designs. Interlocking pavers are ideal for places with a lot of sand or one which sees a lot of foot traffic.

Create a Mosaic

Using tiles to create interesting mosaics can give your patio a distinct look and feel. Mosaics can also be created with colorful glass, ceramics, and different curios. Readymade mosaics are available and you just have to bring them home and follow the instructions to get it done the right way. If you are the creative types, you can also put together assorted ceramics found in thrift stores in interesting patterns. If doing a large mosaic, you should do it in segments so it is easier for you to put together.

There are numerous possibilities with a patio and these are just a few of them. A little creativity and imagination can go a long way in changing the look of your yard. The expense involved can be none or as high as you want depending on your predilections and what you can afford. The only limitation is the human imagination and it does not seem that point has been reached.