The upper Midwest is finally ready to open up its patios. Homeowners are bringing out the chair cushions and planning for the many outdoor gatherings of the summer. A patio is a great way to show off your seasonal style.
Things to consider:
- Mobile accessibility: A deck can be raised to meet the home or level with the ground. Knowing how you and your guests will handle stairs and elevation can help determine the design.
- Landscaping: Many areas of landscaping play into creating a wonderful patio experience. Plants and decorative walls can be used for privacy. Florals can keep bugs away. Stone masonry can create functional spaces for seating, fireplaces, and cooking.
- Function: Will you use your patio for nightly dinners, a space for rest and meditation, or cozy gatherings around the fire? Some backyards provide space for everything, while others may need a homeowner to decide functionality.
- Pets: Many homeowners think of how their pets will use the patio and backyard too late. Create zones for your pet to keep cool in the heat, store their outdoor water dishes, have restroom spaces, and room to run without obstacles.
Working with the space you have
The room to work in and the functionality you want the patio to have drive the design. Some patios are small interior atria walled off in the middle of the home, some are balcony-esque and connect to the home, and some are large gathering areas built in the garden. The similarity they share is an appreciation for fresh air, daylight, and getting outside.
Who do you work with on a patio project?
Architect - An architect designs the patio with beauty, function, and integration in mind, tying it to the rest of the home and site while addressing all the practical and technical needs.
General Contractor - A general contractor (GC) plays a hands-on, practical role in bringing the patio design to life. While the architect plans it, the GC builds it.
Landscape Designer - A landscape designer’s role in building a patio focuses on how the patio fits into the overall outdoor environment, blending aesthetics, function, and nature. They’re like the bridge between the architect’s structure and the natural surroundings.
When should you start planning a patio/deck addition?
There is no better time than the present. While we often think of enjoying patios in the summer, planning for a patio to have features that are accessible, or at least beautiful, all year long is key. The answer to this question is custom to every project. Smaller and less unique solutions may enter construction after a few weeks, while larger challenges that need more specialties will need months of design and planning. Thus, we suggest starting much earlier than when you intend for it to be finished.
Kell’s Take on Porches
A porch is a space for you to wind down and reconnect with nature. Whether your patio, deck, or porch is out in the open or a 4-season windowed extension, humans who utilize these spaces can find more serenity.
Patios with multiple zones for dining, relaxing, and hosting are design challenges that we are eager to jump into. Designing the zones to cohesively tie them all to the home and give them a functional flow is very interesting. Often we stand back and think, “What if there was a big birthday party? How would the space be utilized?” I love a dining area with a stone-masoned fireplace. It hits two goals in one area. Plus, as a Minnesotan, I know a fireplace can be functional throughout the year, creating a beautiful winter outdoor space for hosting — if you’re into wearing a snow suit.
Ready to discuss your patio design? Inquire for a free consultation.