The traditional meaning of the word patio pertaining to Spanish architecture is a courtyard or inner area open to the sky. The term patio has evolved to refer to any outdoor hardscaped area, usually with chairs and tables for lounging, dining and entertaining. When planning a patio-building project, you'll want to assess the size, style, materials, budget, DIY difficulty level, usage, and the average number of people you expect to entertain within the space.
Patio Materials: Brick, Concrete, Flagstone, etc.
In selecting materials for your patio project, pay attention to the architectural style of your house and the exterior materials used in other areas of your property. Your patio materials should blend with your home's surroundings. Patio-building materials include:
- Brick
- Concrete
- Flagstone
- Pavers
- Loose Materials: Pea Gravel, Crushed Granite or Bark
- Tile
- Easy-to-Install Interlocking Deck and Patio Tiles
- Decomposed Granite (DG)
- A Mixture of Any of the Above
Patio Designs and Styles
A patio is so much more than a "slab" you step on when you exit your back door. Consider size and the purpose of the patio when planning. Different patio designs and types include:
- An Extension of or Connection to the House
- Freestanding
- Two-Level or Split-Level
- Entry Patio
- Separate Patios Connected by Pathways
- Pool or Spa Patio
- Sunken Patio
