The best place to start when you are talking about patio living is at the top. In this case, that means the patio cover. When we are talking about patio covers, we mean to say any type that will provide you with some overhead protection from the elements, in any way. So, while a pergola does not provide much in the way of ‘protection’ overhead, since it has an open lattice structure to it, it can still serve this function.
A pergola may be covered in vines or climbing plants that creates a type living roof for your patio structure. Another way to think of it is that any cover that will provide protection or ambiance from above could be considered in this category to act as the ‘top’ of your patio.
In this regard, an awning or other type of patio shade could serve this function as well. You’ve likely heard of or seen those Australian shade sails. If not, they are basically a canopy that is pulled taught between typically three points of attachment and serves as a nice roof overhead. Unlike the pergola, this type of shade canopy will keep the sun and rain off of you.
Now, if we have a top we must have a bottom. As far as patios are concerned, the bottom is usually some sort of cement or masonry surface. This may be patio pavers, flagstone or a simple poured slab. Because of the relative ‘harshness’ of these materials, you might opt to soften it up with the use of an outdoor rug. There are many outdoor rugs that are manufactured to withstand the elements and wear and tear more noticeable in the outdoors.
There are many other things to consider in your outdoor space as well, but we’ll save those for another discussion. Things like outdoor lighting and specific shading needs that only certain patio umbrellas can provide. Likewise, what would your outdoor space be without some type of bar or kitchen. And, with outdoor kitchen designs being what they are, you have no need to skimp on the modern conveniences.
So, there you have it. The outdoor patio, top to bottom. Don’t forget, there is a lot of space in between the top and bottom to fill with any number of outdoor accessories. After all, what good is a patio if you can’t sit on lounge furniture or hang from an outdoor swing? In our opinion, you might as well be indoors if you can’t enjoy a more free-spirited outdoor space.