If your patio feels a little drab, it can be tough to enjoy this outdoor space. A patio should be an oasis; no matter how big or small, there are always a few ways to make it a bit cozier.
With a bit of time, a budget, and some new outdoor furniture, you can bring vital life back to this often-neglected concrete slab. Here are some suggestions to help you determine which outdoor furniture looks right for your patio.
How To Select the Perfect Outdoor Furniture
Selecting the ideal furniture for your patio will depend on a few factors. You are likelier to strike that perfect balance between fashion and function by considering your needs.
Theme
When picking furniture, your first inclination might be building a theme. This is an excellent idea so you can choose matching styles for your furniture before you begin the process. A good theme will bring everything together and make things look uniform.
Your preferred theme should address what colors, patterns, or designs you think will make your patio stand out. You should also consider textures and materials for something more durable, such as wood, brass, or wrought iron, and which ones you prefer to feature.
Be sure to consider both style and functionality and ensure your furniture can withstand the weather outside.
Layout
How you plan to lay out your patio will also play a big role in your chosen furniture. You should create a rough layout before choosing furniture and take precise measurements.
Remember, creating a sense of flow and direction is essential to keep the energy moving and achieving the proper Feng Shui. Avoid choosing furniture that is too large or overwhelming for your space. A small patio can still have a significant impact.
Function
The most crucial detail when purchasing is ensuring it functions properly. Although a piece might look beautiful, cheap materials or poor quality can reveal themselves to be deal-breakers down the line. They can be both costly and dangerous.
That’s why it is critical to go with a trustworthy supplier and professionals that know their way around a patio. They can tell you what’s worth putting money into.
Essential Outdoor Furniture
Every outdoor space is different, and you want yours to reflect your unique style, but every patio should have a few outdoor pieces to ensure maximum tranquility. Investing in a few different items or sets can help you create different zones depending on the preferred activity.
Outdoor Seating
When you imagine setting up your perfect patio, chances are your main goal is to create space for lounging. Fortunately, there are all kinds of outdoor furniture options for seating.
An outdoor chaise or lawn chair is perfect for stretching out with a good book on a sunny afternoon. Or, create some space for conversation with a roomy sectional and a few armchairs. Depending on how and where you group your seating can dictate how family gatherings or quiet afternoons will play out.
Outdoor Dining
Another critical part of patio life is having somewhere to enjoy meals. If you intend to have a grill or fire pit to prepare food, having space to eat can complete your outdoor space. Every entertainer should include dining space on their patio, even if it’s just a convenient place to rest a glass.
If all that comes to mind when considering outdoor dining is a generic patio table, think again. There are plenty of creative ways to provide ample surfaces to rest your plates and glasses. Besides the typical picnic or dining table, you can also invest in outdoor side tables or a bar.
Shade and Shelter
In addition to creating a space perfect for lounging, shade and shelter are essential as the weather gets warmer. If your patio isn’t already covered, there are plenty of ways to make it happen.
Tents and retractable awnings are popular options for people looking for something easy to take down and stick to a budget. But if you want to give your patio a polished look, you might consider a more permanent structure. A beautiful, custom-created pergola is perfect for this endeavor.
Tips for Transforming a Patio
Before diving into a total transformation project, getting a few tips to keep your patio looking fresh year-round is useful. New outdoor furniture can only take you so far if you don’t know how to keep up with it.
Keep it Clean
Before switching out any furniture, clean the patio thoroughly, removing excessive debris, such as leaves and cobwebs. Once your new furniture is moved in, keeping your deck swept and the furnishings washed is a great way to maintain a clean appearance. It will also help your furniture last longer.
Don’t Neglect Lighting
Light is a great way to highlight your favorite features on your porch and give it a cozy ambiance. Everything from string lights to torches to a fire pit can give your patio an inviting glow. Use lighting as a means to give your space a touch of ambiance.
Add Some Greenery
Spending time outdoors means getting in touch with nature, so bring extra greenery to your patio. Hanging vines or a few potted plants can give your outdoor space a sense of escape. Just don’t forget to keep everything watered and pruned.
If you live in Minnesota, you’re in luck because many Minnesota-based landscaping companies can help you make these decisions.
Consider Custom Furniture
If you want to make an extra effort to make your patio into a unique respite, you should consider getting custom furniture. Custom outdoor pieces are the perfect way to balance your aesthetics with functionality.
However, custom furniture can require more maintenance than standard furniture. Thus, it’s important to factor in the additional costs for the upkeep required for maintaining it. Consider working with a professional designer or carpenter to create beautiful yet practical furniture.
Every Patio Deserves a Little Love
No matter how big, small, or extravagant, your patio may be, it could always use a little TLC. Some fresh, new outdoor furniture might be just the facelift your patio needs, and finding high-quality products and professionals will help you bring your vision to life.