When it comes to adding some spice to your backyard, there is no easier way than renovating or redesigning your patio. An outdoor patio needs as much detail and consideration as your interior rooms in order for it to be enjoyable, but they are simple to upgrade. Here are six easy ways to transform your back porch or patio.
Consider an Outdoor Kitchen Set
Entertaining guests outdoors has never been easier! With an outside kitchen set, you can cook full meals outdoors without constantly having to excuse yourself to check on food being prepared inside. All you need are some sturdy stone walls, a granite counter, a mini-fridge, and a gas grill. That said, this can get expensive, so be sure to compare fixture and installation costs. Many find it worth it to be able to prepare a meal without missing out on socialization.
Designate a Conversational Area
Many people like to spend time with loved ones and entertain their guests in the backyard. If you’re one of these people, you’ll want to consider having a comfortable sitting area for guests to gather. Invest in some quality patio furniture that will stand up against the elements but still provide a welcoming environment. You’ll likely want to arrange the seating options facing each other so that it’s easy to have a group conversation. A fire pit can be a great centerpiece for this kind of area.
Install a Fire Pit
Fire pits can serve multiple purposes, including a space for cooking or just a warm area on chillier evenings. It creates a cost and intimate environment that is perfect for spending time with family and friends. Just think about longer nights spent outside in the early fall and late spring, toasting marshmallows and hot dogs with the kids, or sipping a glass of wine under the stars. This can easily become your favorite spot to hang out every night.
Add a Hot Tub or Fountain
Running water can be soothing and relaxing to listen to. The aesthetic is also charming and elegant. As such, adding a full water feature like either a rock column or a tiered garden fountain, will create a stimulating, yet calming, atmosphere. If you like to spend time in the water, hot tubs can be a great choice for a back patio. The warm water can make this a comfortable place to spend time almost year-round. It is also relaxing on sore muscles and achy joints, making it the perfect place to spend time after a long day at work.
Wire In a Ceiling Fan
If you have a covered patio, this can be a great upgrade. Especially in the South and the Southwest, where summers can get quite hot, and muggy in the former, and super-dry in the latter. Everyone will be sure to appreciate the circulated air. Not only can fans control the heat and humidity of a covered porch, but they can also help to keep the bugs away. Just be sure to have a professional electrician wire the area if it hasn’t been set up already.
Choose Simple Furniture
Try adding furniture besides the typical outdoor table and chairs set. Search for ready-to-assemble furniture at big box stores or online. Whether you are looking for something fashionable or traditional, you will be sure to find strong, durable sofas, recliners, hammocks, and swings in a variety of hues that will match your home and surroundings. If your patio is just off of the dining room or living room, you can incorporate some of these same styles and color schemes for a smooth transition between spaces.
In conclusion, it isn’t hard to transform your old, tired patio into a backyard sanctuary. You just need to be creative and motivated enough to work wonders with your existing space. But, first you will have to decide what you want out of your patio, what it will be mostly used for, and what actually makes you feel the most comfortable.