During the warmer months of the year, the backyard is one of the most frequented areas on residential properties because of the beautiful views provided. When you have a patio, you can enjoy a spot to entertain and lounge each season, whether you prefer to enjoy a meal or read a book. If you want to enhance the quality of your backyard, there are a few patio trends to consider incorporating to boost its overall appeal and functionality.
Outdoor Fireplaces
One of the most upscale features you can add to an outdoor setting is a fireplace, which will look extremely luxurious and regal. Outdoor fireplaces are increasing in popularity because they offer warmth when you want to spend time outside on chilly nights. They can also provide you with a space to entertain and look more attractive than bonfires due to their commanding size and elegant stonework.
Outdoor fireplaces also work as the centerpiece in the backyard and can create a focal point that anchors other types of features in the backyard. Your patio furniture will look more intentionally placed in the backyard if it's next to a fireplace, which can prevent it from looking like it's floating.
Outdoor Kitchens
Outdoor kitchens have a high level of appeal because they create more functionality in the outdoor setting. They can allow you to cook and entertain outside when you're hosting a large number of people, which can prevent everyone from feeling cramped indoors. The outdoor kitchen can include a large barbecue where you can cook a lot of food during parties and gatherings. You can also install a mini-fridge a few feet away to ensure you have a spot for chilling different ingredients or cold beer.
Consider the type of flooring that you want to install in the outdoor kitchen to ensure it's safe and non-slip. The materials should be easy to clean and hold up well to the elements each season.
Some people with a large budget also choose to install a pizza oven, which is a great conversation starter and can allow you to have a unique way of cooking in the backyard. The wood-fired oven can allow you to practice an authentic way of cooking more types of food instead of just pizza. They're also a great product to use for baking desserts, vegetables, and different types of meat. It can offer more versatility than grills and allow you to experiment with a variety of recipes, depending on the season.
Create an Outdoor Room
Some homeowners also like to create a cool place to sit outside with an outdoor room that is enclosed, which can keep the elements away. A sunroom is a popular feature that can be used year-round and is a great place to read or enjoy eating your breakfast outside. They can even be furnished and a great place to have a guest room. Adding windows on each wall can offer a beautiful view of the outdoors.
Some people even add a jacuzzi to the patio to enjoy a place where they can cool off from the heat. Adding glass roof panels can also offer maximum light overhead.
If you want something less permanent, install a retractable awning or canopy that is easy to open and close. This can allow you to block the sun and enjoy the added shade at any time of the day.
Install Patio Lights
Installing patio lights will enhance the ambiance of your outdoor setting and allow you to create a cozy and inviting setting in the evening. This will make it easier to view different features on the patio and create a safer environment where your guests can walk around. Low-voltage lights emit a warm glow that is soothing and looks upscale. You can also add high-voltage lights on spots where you want extra security and to avoid attracting possible intruders.
Path lights can be used to illuminate walkways and make it possible to access other parts of the backyard without stumbling over anything. Adding lights to a garden next to the patio will also contribute to the visual appeal of the setting. Consider using rope lights, lanterns, and torches to create a comfortable environment that is ideal for parties.
String lights will also look classy and whimsical. They're cost-effective, easy to hang, and can draw the eye upward in patios. LED string lights don't use a lot of energy and can last for many years before they need to be replaced. They also hold up well to the elements without wearing down easily.
Create Layers
Many people don't realize that their patio can have more than one layer for added dimension and more visual appeal. This can allow you to get more use out of a compact space and make it feel larger. Consider building a tiered seating area, which can give your guests the option of lounging in more than one area. One of the seating areas can feature patio furniture and rugs, whereas the additional seating area can have a fire pit and benches. Adding outdoor pillows to the two seating areas will create a comfortable and relaxed setting.
Add Curtains
Curtains create a beautiful and elegant design that blocks the sun and makes the patio look upscale. Consider hanging white curtains that can blow in the wind and allow your patio to feel like a cabana. Curtains are affordable to purchase and can also add extra privacy to ensure you feel more at ease as you sunbathe. You can choose sheer fabric if you want some sunlight to filter through or color-blocking curtains to block more of the light and keep the patio feeling cooler.
You can create the backyard of your dreams with the right features and additions to ensure you transform the space and get more use out of it each season. You'll feel proud to show off your patio to your guests and can enjoy spending more time at home as you entertain.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.