Whether you host a big event or just have friends over for a fun get-together, a stylish and luxurious patio is a must. Discover some ways to update your patio to make a chic and classy venue.
1. Lights
Good lighting is key to any cool patio as it sets the mood for the evening.
String Lights
The most common and trendy lights for patios are string lights. The bulbs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. You will need to decide if you want color, how bright you want the patio to be, and what kind of space you have to hang lights.
You may want to add some poles or posts to a patio in order to accommodate the string lights. They can also be hung on nearby fences. You have bulb string lights, small fairy lights, and rope lights. They are all easily found at home improvement and big-box stores.
Other Lights
If you have a ceiling on your patio, you can hang lamps like Chinese lanterns. These have the potential to put out more light as a lot of the time you can put in higher watt bulbs.
Candles or tea lights are fun for guests if you have tables and want to create an intimate setting.
Yard lights are also an option, and many are wireless and solar powered. You can get lights that are close to the ground or a path, or ones that are on posts and sit higher in the yard.
2. Seating
You have a limitless amount of styles, materials, and looks for patio seating. Your options are swings, picnic tables, couches, benches, bistro sets — just to name a few.
First, you will need to consider who will be over. If kids visit, you might want something cozy or just plain sturdy. If you have a big BBQ with friends, you will want a big table where you and your guests can eat and gab. If you and your partner want a cozy setting, consider something more romantic like a bench with a canopy and fluffy pillows to lounge on.
Then you need to decide on what kind of materials will best fit your patio. Colors and textures you like will come into play, as well as its vitality. Something weaker like wicker won’t be great for active children, but wood, stone, or metal will last and look amazing.
3. Heaters
You won’t want cold guests when your party goes late, so you need a heater to keep them warm and toasty. You should decide what kind of heater will be best for your patio and the space available.
You have three basic types of patio heaters: tabletop, free standing, and permanent overhead/wall mounted. Tabletop heaters sit on a table or ledge but have limited capacity. These are ok for guests who can sit close for a chat, as the heat output is low.
Free-standing heaters take up floor space but are wonderful for a patio that has little table or counter space. These allow your guests to stand while they stay warm. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Wall or ceiling-mounted heaters hang from a ceiling or wall, and the heat is directed downwards in a fan pattern. Since this is a more direct way to heat, they are better for average to large spaces or patios where you want to effectively heat the entire area in a cost effective manner.
For more information on patio heaters, visit our website. Whether you’re looking for a whimsical, romantic, traditional, or futuristic feel to your patio, we hope these tips will help you achieve your vision!
