Many times, we are so concentrated on upgrading the interior of our homes that we forget the backyard. Did you know that some of the best upgrades you can make to your home are precise to your outdoor space?
In long run, a well-designed backyard with a patio can raise the value of your home, but not just that – with a nice covered patio space, you’re gaining another living or dining room where you can spend long summer days and nights.
If you’re up to the challenge and you want to create a cozy and inviting exterior of your home, here are 7 ways to upgrade your patio.
1. Add interest with stone pavers
Let’s start from the ground – if your current patio space is a boring concrete slab, it’s time to change that. A concrete slab may seem like the most affordable idea but over time it will crack and crumble and it will no longer look nice.
A much better and more stylish idea would be installing stone pavers. Not only are they a much better option, but they are also easier to repair in case they get damaged.
Additionally, they come in many different shapes, colors, and surface finishes – which means that you can have whatever look you prefer (you can even mix and match them). Another plus of the pavers is that they can be easily installed, you just need to make sure that the ground is level.
If you don’t like the stone pavers, you can also check out clay ones. They are equally durable and will give interest and style to your patio space.
2. Cover your patio
If you want to make the most of your patio space, then the best upgrade would be adding a patio cover. With a great cover, you can enhance your outdoor space and increase the time you spend outside.
For this part of the upgrade, you should consult with professionals such as an architect or landscape artist and they will help you design the best possible patio cover. Depending on your house, your style, and the size of the space you want to cover, you’ll be able to choose between many patios covers. From wooden pergolas, shade sails to a modern louvred roof or corrugated plastic roof – the choice will be yours.
All these patio covers will serve as protection from the elements, and you’ll be able to maximize your time outdoors.
3. Functional outdoor furniture
When it comes to outdoor furniture, you have options. You can either buy outdoor, ready-to-assemble furniture or you can do something custom and DIY your own patio furniture.
All in all, the best solution for outdoor furniture is to either buy or create foldable furniture that you can store away when you’re not using it. This way your furniture won’t be exposed to elements and it will last longer.
By choosing the right kind of outdoor furniture, you can create the ultimate backyard retreat.
4. Patio lighting
Not only will the proper patio lighting set the mood, but it will also allow you to spend time outdoors even during the night. Illuminate your outdoor space with different kinds of light sources. Layering light is a good way to create a cozy patio space with the perfect atmosphere.
Start by adding a pendant light and combine it with string lighting. You can also play around with a floor lamp, or simply add lanterns, candles, or solar garden lighting. Find something that works best for your outdoor space and that creates sufficient light for people to move around the space. But also, don’t overdo it with lighting because you can ruin the ambiance.
5. Firepit
A firepit can be a great focal point in your patio. And not only that, having a firepit can be great during both summer and wintertime. A firepit can provide warmth and lighting, and it can be a perfect gathering place for friends and family.
6. Plants and flowers
How boring would the patio space be without some plants and flowers to liven it up? You can add potted plants and flowers to your patio to add some color and interest.
You can hang the plants from the walls or beams of your pergola, just make sure you choose the plants that like shaded places if you have a patio cover. If not choose the ones that don’t mind the direct sun.
7. Add color and texture
And finally, to tie everything in, you can add a bit of color and texture with outdoor décor and accessories. Add colorful cushions, table covers, outdoor rugs. You can even hang some outdoor curtains for added privacy and protection from sun/rain. You can even paint your furniture in different bold colors to add interest and color to your patio.
Hopefully, some of these 7 ways of upgrading the patio space can help you create the perfect outdoor retreat in your backyard.
