As the warmer weather approaches, it’s only natural to want to spend more time outside. This is especially true when you’ve created the perfect backyard space for your family. Most likely, you opted to include a deck or patio in your new home build, and you want to make the most of it. Our ideas will help you decorate it, make it comfortable, and extend its use by offering options for warmth. It’s the perfect way to drag everyone away from their screens.
Flowers Galore
Flowers are an easy way to turn a drab deck or patio into an inviting space, and there are a lot of different ways you can incorporate them into the design. For instance, there are special rectangular planters designed specifically for use along the deck railings. This space might otherwise go unused, but with the planters, you can add some colour. Think about flowers that are easy to take care of, such as marigolds or petunias.
If you’re looking for something a bit bolder, consider purchasing a few large planters to set in the corners around the deck or patio. Don’t be afraid to put multiple types of flowers into planters like this. There’s certainly enough space, and the variety gives it more visual appeal. Take a look at the planters around stores if you need some ideas.
You might also add some flowers or landscaping around the outside of the deck or patio. This actually serves a double purpose. Of course, it makes the area look great, but it also means you can keep the lawn mower away from the deck area.
Lovely Lighting Ideas
If you want to enjoy your backyard once the sun goes down, think about ways you can light up the space. Soft lighting is less likely to attract bugs, so that’s clearly the best choice.
Many people opt to string up lights. You can find strings with tiny fairy lights as well as ones that have larger bulbs. These work particularly well for those who have some type of covering over their patio area, like a roof or a pergola. Otherwise, look for other lights you can place around the area that are solar-powered. You can find anything from simple lanterns to more elegant styles. You especially want to have some lighting around any steps or pathways for safety.
Providing Some Shade
New homes may be somewhat lacking in options for shade, at least for the first few years. You may need to make your own. Large shade umbrellas often do the trick. Many are familiar with the style that goes in the centre of the patio table, but there are also stand-alone versions that you can place near any type of seating you offer.
Another popular choice these days are free-standing gazebos. These are readily available at stores like Home Depot, and they’re large enough to cover a full seating area. Many even have curtains or screens that can enclose the space if you want to block out the bugs while you’re eating or taking a nap.
Heating Things Up
On the flip side, you might need ways to warm up once the sun goes down. Many people really enjoy the idea of a fire pit. Gas versions allow you to get the warmth and ambience without worrying about putting the fire out when you’re done. Just flip a switch and it turns off. Alternatively, gas heaters — like you find on patios at restaurants — are a great solution.
Whether you like the idea of a fire or not, it’s a simple fact of life that some people run colder than others. It’s helpful to have a box of blankets nearby to keep those people comfortable.
Comfortable Seating
Want to have a great deck or patio? Focus on getting some comfortable seating. If you plan to have some sort of hang-out/conversation area, look for lounge chairs with all-weather cushions. People will want to settle in here for a long time. Even if you’re just looking for chairs to go around the table, you’ll want some comfortable chairs. Look for ones that have arms, high backs, and a soft seat. This will encourage friends and families to gather around the table.
If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, consider adding an adult-sized swing or two. These are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s a great way to get people to feel like a kid again.
It takes surprisingly little effort to create a deck or patio that encourages your family to hang out together. With the right seating, a comfortable temperature, and soft lighting for the night, you’ll have a simply superb space.
