Consumers in the UK are making ever more inventive and practical use of their outdoor spaces. No longer are homeowners content with having a patch of grass and a few plants in their gardens. Now, many individuals want to benefit from stylish and functional outdoor living areas where they can relax and entertain guests. Often, these spaces include patios.
The British weather may be notoriously unpredictable, but people aren’t letting this put them off. With the addition of shelters, patio heaters and other products, consumers can ensure they are able to get out come rain or shine.
Top design tips
To help ensure they get the very most from their patios, people can benefit from bearing a few simple design principles in mind. For example, first and foremost, people need to decide what the patio is for. If they plan to use it as a space for meals and parties or as an outdoor room, it will need to be sizeable. On the other hand, if consumers simply want a cosy area where they and their partner can relax, a small, compact patio could be much better.
Location is another point to consider. By placing patios flush against their houses, people can benefit from total convenience. This may be especially important if they plan to transport lots of food and drink to and from the area. It can also save people from getting wet and muddy travelling across a lawn. However, there are other options. For example, a spot further down the garden may have particularly good views, or enjoy more sunlight.
Having some form of shelter is a must for most patios. This can protect people from sudden downpours and from the heat of sun. There are a host of options on offer. From simple, retractable parasols to elaborate pergolas, consumers are not stuck for choice.
Homeowners also have plenty of choice when it comes to materials. They can take their pick from an array of products, including concrete, limestone, sandstone, slate, granite, brick and more. Drainage is also an issue for consumers to think about, particularly if their patio is large or their garden easily gets waterlogged.
Attention to detail
To get the very best results, consumers should pay attention to the finer details. For example, by introducing stylish lighting to their patios, people can help ensure that the areas come to life after darkness falls.
Also, selecting suitable outdoor furniture is a must. No patio is complete without some attractive and comfy furniture. Of course, when selecting these products, individuals must take a careful look at the care instructions and make sure they are suitable for their intended use.
The addition of garden heaters can also make a big difference to the success of these areas. These products are simple to use and they come in particularly handy in the evenings when temperatures start to drop.
Meanwhile, as a finishing touch, the addition of some pot plants can be ideal. These items add a splash of style and vibrancy to patios.
About the Author – Anna Longdin is a freelance blogger and keen home improver who has written for a selection of websites, including Calor.
