Having enough backyard space to have a patio can be freeing, especially for people who love to be outdoors and soak up as much sun as they can. If you already have your own patio at home, chances are you’re pretty comfortable with it and its functionality. But if you’re looking for ways to spruce up your patio and make it even livelier and more comfortable than it already is, here are some ways to turn your patio into your next big house project.
- A pool or hot tub
If you’ve got a big enough backyard for it, turning it into your own pool area is a fun idea that’s sure to get everyone’s, including your guests, approval. Who doesn’t want to have their own private pool that they can just dip into whenever they want? It’s ideal for the summer and you can even hold pool parties for yourself, your friends and family.
If you don’t have enough space for a pool, another alternative is your own outdoor hot tub. It’s not too big, plus it’ll keep you warm even when it’s cold outside. It’s like your own mini spa at home! Rest and relaxation can just be one room away in your own backyard if you want it to be. It’s perfect with some drinks too!
- Outdoor dining area
Tired of having your meals in the same old dining room? Why not take your food outside and have your own outdoor dining area? You can easily set up a table and chairs right on your patio and turn it into its own little breakfast nook, perfect for sunny mornings amid nature. Even better if your backyard is on a scenic overlook or has its own garden. Nothing wakes you up better than some bright sunshine and fresh air.
You can also have dinner parties outside instead of inside on a nice cool evening. String a couple of lights over your patio, make sure that there are enough seats for everyone, and there you go! Your own little outdoor restaurant, sure to win your guests over.
- Firepit
Another way to keep warm during those cold fall or winter months is by having your own fire pit. It’s a relatively simple way to make things a lot cozier and warm you right up. If you want, you can even make one yourself out of existing materials. All you really need to do is keep it stocked with fresh firewood. Add a bench or a few chairs with plush throw pillows around it, and voila! A cozy space where you can sit, relax and have a nice chat.
- Stone garden
For a bit of that Eastern flair, why not start your own stone or rock garden? Rock gardens have their origins in Japan and are often called Zen gardens because of their relation to Buddhism and meditation. You can have your own Zen garden to add a bit of that meditative aspect to your home. Rock gardens are usually made of — you guessed it — rocks, sand, and gravel, with the minimal addition of moss, shrubs, and trees. It’s a perfect spot for some yoga and exercise in the morning and some relaxing meditative tea in the afternoon.
- Fish pond
Even if your backyard is relatively small, it should still be big enough to have your own fishpond. The good thing about fishponds is that they can be as small or as big as you want them, and they can carry as much fish as you want, so if you can only take care of a couple of fish at a time, you can start with a smaller pond and expand if you want more.
Most people have koi carp in their outdoor ponds, as they’re very common, very beautiful to look at, and are relatively easy to care for, but you can keep a variety of fish, from goldfish to catfish and minnows. Just be sure to feed them regularly and clean their pond every once in a while.
- Fountain
Having an old-fashioned or even a modern fountain is one easy way to elevate a backyard and give it a whole new look. The relaxing sound of rushing water makes for a great backdrop to your afternoon activities or a casual chat among your friends. You can design a fountain to fit the rest of your patio and make it as big or as small as your space will allow. There’s just something timelessly classic and pleasing about having a fountain and as long as the pipes continue working, it’s not that hard to maintain either.
- Gazebo
Who can resist the romantic appeal of a gazebo? Especially if you have a surrounding garden, a nice gazebo smack in the center of your own backyard makes for a wonderful and romantic sight. With the right lights and decoration, it’s perfect for a nice romantic evening with that special someone.
- Herb or container garden
A garden is a go-to thing people think about when they think about what to do with their backyards. If you don’t have space or the time to maintain a full garden, you can try a container garden instead. Keeping your pants in neat little containers makes them much better to handle and you can easily bring them inside whenever the season starts to get colder.
For added functionality, you can grow herbs and vegetables straight from your backyard. No more long lines at the grocery, plus you have the assurance of safety and freshness.
Your patio is its own extension of your home. Keeping it clean and decorated is part of maintaining the overall integrity of your house. Find the right project that works for you and your backyard and spruce it up into something that you can be proud of.
