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What is a Patio?

By Lisa Hallett Taylor, About.com

A cottage-style patio surrounded by landscaping.

Photo by Lisa Hallett Taylor
Definition: From the Spanish word patio, meaning backyard or back garden. A patio is an outdoor living space often adjoining a residence, used for dining, entertaining or relaxation. Patios may or may not have covers or roofs and are usually paved areas between the house and garden. Patios can be made of concrete, brick, stone, gravel, pavers, flagstone or numerous other materials.
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