6 Ways To Take Your Patio To The Next Level

Having a patio is nice no matter what, but spending a bit of time and money to make it as nice as possible will enhance your life in many ways. A beautiful, comfortable, and functional patio will essentially increase your living space (at least during pleasant weather), give family and friends an inviting place to gather, and may even give your home value a boost. Here are six great ways to take your patio to next level:

Have a Patio Cover Installed

Patio covers and patio screens make your patio much more functional and comfortable. Patio covers provide shelter from the sun and elements, meaning you can enjoy your patio and still be outdoors without totally melting in the sun. You can even sip a cup of tea and watch the rain on your covered patio during a summer thunderstorm.

Patio covers come in a range of styles and may incorporate removable screening or curtains, depending on your preferences, so that's something to keep in mind during patio cover installation. Most homeowners find themselves using their patio much more during more months of the year once they have a patio cover installed.  

Invest in Comfortable Outdoor Furniture

Buying flimsy, uncomfortable outdoor furniture means your family won't want to spend much time on the patio. Instead, choose to invest in comfortable outdoor furniture that complements your home's style. An outdoor sofa paired with chairs and end tables will provide plenty of seating options while also giving everyone places to stash beverages, books, or laptops.

Investing in comfortable and stylish outdoor furniture doesn't have to be expensive, either. Patio furniture often goes on sale during the fall and winter, and like-new patio furniture can be found at yard sales and on resale sites for cheap since many people sell their outdoor furnishings when they move.

Add a Fire Pit

A fire pit means friends and family gathered together enjoying warm beverages, playing cards, laughing, and making s'mores on brisk evenings. Fire pits add warmth, light, and beauty to any patio and come in a wide range of styles from simple to elaborate. If you want to save money and happen to enjoy DIY projects, you can even make your own fire pit fairly easily from only gravel, string, and spray paint.

Don't Overlook Lighting

Adding cool lighting will make your patio much more appealing at night. Cafe-style string lights add charm, while path lights leading to the patio from the house or driveway will make walking to the patio safer. Hanging lanterns from your patio cover will make your patio feel like the outdoor space of a chic boutique hotel. Tea light candles scattered on your patio tables are simple but romantic-looking.

Emphasize the Little Details

Small details will help make your patio feel more cozy and look more stylish. Add colorful throw blankets and pillows to brighten things up and keep your family comfy while lounging outside. Bug spray, water bottles, a lighter for candles, chapstick, and other thoughtful details can be stashed neatly in a basket. Potted plants or flowers will help enhance the indoor-outdoor feel of your patio space.

Incorporate Technology

Technology can make your patio even more functional. Outdoor, waterproof wireless speakers will make it easy to play music when you have gatherings or simply want to enjoy some tunes outside. Adding smart home technology to your patio will make it easy to turn your outdoor lights and music on and off no matter where you are.

By incorporating these ideas into your patio upgrade, you will truly be taking your outdoor space to the next level and turning it into a place the whole family enjoys spending time.