Revamping Your Patio: Tips and Trends to Bring It Up to Scratch

As we move into patio season, many may take a close look at their outdoor space and realize it could benefit from a little sprucing up. With more and more people embracing indoor-outdoor living, having a patio that seamlessly extends from your home has become crucial. Thankfully, one needn't fret - there are plenty of designers ready to share their advice on how to change your patio for the better.

A common misconception is bigger patios are better. Although large open spaces can indeed be flexible, they often feel impersonal and aren't utilised fully, not giving off the intimate, cozy vibe a properly curated space would.

Interior designer Lisa Sternfeld, supports the idea of a patio acting like an additional room in your house, stating, “A well-balanced deck offers space for both quiet reflection and meaningful gatherings.” She suggests incorporating a secluded reading or meditation area alongside conversation-friendly seating arrangements.

Landscape architect, Kristina Dexner, founder of Homes Insideout, shares this sentiment adding,“Today’s outdoor spaces thrive when they feel cozy and defined.” She proposes creating different zones on your patio, demarcated with natural elements like hedges, trees or vines for a softer, more intimate feel.

When it comes to materials, synthetic options like plastic or faux turf may initially seem like a good choice due to their low-maintenance nature. Unfortunately, they aren't environmentally friendly and don't give off a warm, authentic feel. Dexner's recommendation encompasses natural options like stone, wood, brick and gravel that age well and blend seamlessly with the environment.

Fire pits have a somewhat permanent arrangement in modern backyards for the warmth and communal feel they offer. However, designers are urging us to ditch the idea of size matters and focus more on functional, intimate setups.

Cooking outdoors is also gaining popularity, with fire pits being transformed into cooking platforms for pizza ovens or cast-iron stoves. The fire pit then becomes more than just an eye candy - instead, it serves a practical purpose and generates inviting warmth instead of being overpoweringly large.

Designers also caution against jumping on the bandwagon of trends like patterned pillows, boho umbrellas or swing chairs that might look good on a Pinterest board, but don't offer comfort and usability in the long run.

Dexner says, “What matters most is comfort: soft cushions, durable textiles, cozy throws, and storm-proof candles." Proper placement of these add-ons is an integral part of patio design. For instance, she suggests placing swings in tucked away corners rather than in the middle of the seating area.

Massive patio umbrellas and sunshades are being phased out in favor of natural shading options like trees or pergolas covered in vines. Store-bought shade isn't as visually appealing or as ecological as dappled light filtering through overhead greenery, creating a true garden room ambiance.

One of the less intuitive trends is moving away from using conventional outdoor furniture like lounge chairs which may seem luxurious but are bulky, not comfortable and not practical for storage. The suggested replacement? A daybed. These out-of-the-box sitting arrangements are a hit in outdoor spaces, offering a versatile option whether you're looking to relax alone or host a small gathering.

Lastly, the paradigm has shifted for patio greenery. “Greenery isn’t just for looks-it reduces stress and invites a sense of calm,” warns Sternfeld. Rather than using ornamental plants, she advocates for local plants, edibles and fruiting wines that add practicality and ecologically-friendly aesthetics to the patio. Vertical planters and abundant greenery can help carve out a comfortable and private nook, making any patio feel like an inviting retreat.