Looking to expand your living space and increase your property value with an outdoor patio? Learn everything you need to know about designing and installing a functional patio, including:
- What is a patio (vs. a deck or porch)?
- What elements are worth considering to include in your patio design?
- How to design a functional patio?
- Tips for designing a patio on a budget
What is a patio?
A patio is an outdoor living space that adjoins a home or commercial building. Patios, as opposed to decks or porches, are typically level to the ground and paved with stone, concrete, or brick.
What elements are worth considering to include in your patio design?
The type of patio you choose to install depends largely on its purpose. Of course, if you have the yard space, your patio could serve multiple purposes.
Fire Pits and Fireplaces
Add warmth to your backyard with an outdoor fireplace or fire pit. A fire feature on your patio encourages guests to gather for longer, even when the nighttime chill sets in.
Pool Surrounds
Elevate your pool area with a low-maintenance paved patio. Take in the sunshine, or add a pergola or umbrella to keep cool.
Outdoor Kitchens and Grills
Become the go-to spot for outdoor cuisine with an outdoor kitchen or grill space incorporated into your patio.
Walkways
Make all of your backyard features easily and beautifully accessible with a paved walkway. (Bonus: Cut down on mowing.)
How to design a functional patio?
Start with making sure that the design is functional for the space, its purpose, and your budget.
As you draw up plans for your patio area, consider these checklist items:
- Purpose: Is your patio’s purpose one that’s listed above? Or, maybe it’s multi-purpose? Determine what you want your patio to be, whether that be a simple gathering area, a complete entertainment space, or a relaxing retreat.
- Location: Depending on where you live or where your commercial property sits, you likely need to consider your location’s zoning laws and/or HOA rules. Our Raleigh team is familiar with the main zoning districts and their regulations for patio and deck installations.
- Size: One of the first steps in designing a patio is measuring out the space in which you want your patio to sit. Does the size of your dream patio correlate with its purpose and your local government’s regulations?
- Shape: Your patio doesn’t have to be limited to the traditional square shape. Depending on the topography of your yard, your patio’s layout should complement the unique natural or man-made features you wish to maintain.
- Site preparation: What type of land currently sits where you’d like your patio to be? Will a retaining wall be needed to allow for the space necessary to install a new patio?
- Materials: What kind of feel would you like your patio to have? Consider modern-looking pavers or warmer natural stone slabs. Gather some inspiration from the variety of pavers our professional hardscapers use around the Raleigh, Durham, and Wake Forest areas.
- Landscaping: Be sure to incorporate plant life into your patio design. Strategic landscaping can enhance your outdoor space’s natural feel and aesthetic. Plants can also act as a natural privacy fence for your patio.
- Accessories: Some patio add-ons that can amp up your space include a pergola or pavilion for shelter, lighting, patio furniture, potted plants, an umbrella, and an outdoor rug.
- Professional opinion: Taking on a new patio project is no small feat. Working with a hardscape design professional will take the pressure off doing it alone and can actually save you money in the long run.
Tips for designing a functional patio on a budget
On a budget but still want a beautiful outdoor patio space? Here are some tips for designing and installing a functional patio without breaking the bank:
Go for simplicity
A less complex design will keep your costs low while still adding value to your property.
Choose budget-friendly materials
There are more patio material options than ever before. While poured concrete is the least expensive option, it also tends to bring in the lowest return on investment if you should decide to sell.
On the other end of the cost spectrum is natural stone. If you’re looking for inexpensive stone for your patio, be aware that you’ll still need a professional to install it. Generally, the cheaper the stone, the more difficult it is to install.
Consider working with a professional
It may sound counterintuitive, but you can save a lot of money and time by working with a professional hardscape designer and installer. Our experts at Setting Sun Patios & Decks make sure your project is done the right way, allowing you to avoid pricey problems down the road. Plus, we guarantee the highest return on investment for any budget.
If you’re in the greater Raleigh or Durham, NC areas, take the first step in making your outdoor patio oasis a reality, and reach out for a consultation.