Trends for Patios and Outdoor Entertaining Spaces

When you are thinking about designing or upgrading your home, you have to think beyond your kitchen and your living room. Your yard might look like little more than a dirt patch with a few swaths of grass and the occasional tree or shrub. Yet your yard can have a big impact on your curb appeal and the overall value of your home. Putting in a patio or an outdoor entertaining space can transform your yard and increase your home’s value.

Here are a few trends for 2015 that you might want to consider for a patio or outdoor entertaining space for your home:

Blended Area

Traditionally, patios have been big, concrete squares. Occasionally, brick or another stone was used, but the same basic shape was maintained. Current trends blend the patio area with the natural area. That means using different shapes and incorporating natural stones like river rocks and boulders. It also means incorporating plants in and around the patio area.

Think of your patio like a secluded enclave in the great outdoors just outside your house. Make it look like a small, secret garden that includes only you and your guests. Wrap the porch around your house and your landscaping beds. Try out circular or geometric patterns. Use a variety of stones and colors for a more natural look.

Water Elements

An easy way to create a more natural look and to add some visual interest to your outdoor entertaining area is to add water elements. You can include a koi pond or a simple garden pond in the middle of your patio or just off the border. Place large rocks and plants all around it to make it look more natural.

If you prefer a more polished and sophisticated look for your patio, try a water fountain. The fountain can make a showy spray or it can just let down a delicate trickle. A more modest fountain will also attract birds and butterflies.

Planting Mix

Most people think of ornamental plants when they make their landscape design. Yet including some edible plants will create some unique design options while also helping you do your part for the environment and a healthier diet.

Consider including a mix of edible and ornamental plants in your outdoor entertaining space, whether you plant in pots or you plant in beds or around the patio’s border. Plants like cabbage and broccoli create some showy displays, while strawberries and pea flower when they are ready to harvest. Choose a variety of colors and textures to make the display more interesting.

Outdoor Fireplaces and Kitchens

Your outdoor cooking and entertaining options aren’t limited to grills and fire pits. An outdoor brick fireplace can provide warmth while also creating a beautiful space to gather with guests. You can even roast marshmallows over it.

An outdoor kitchen can include all the amenities you need, including a grill, mini refrigerator and bar. You can cook up just about anything you would like, depending on how you outfit your kitchen.

An outdoor fireplace or kitchen can take your outdoor entertaining area to the next level. The space will look more sophisticated, and it will offer much more functionality than a simple patio with a grill.

Seating Areas

Simple wicker or plastic furniture will make your patio look cheap and dated. Instead, you should think about your outdoor entertaining area the same way you would your indoor entertaining area. Choose large, comfortable chairs and sofas with beautiful colors and designs.

While you will be limited by the types of materials you can put outside, you aren’t limited in your design choices. You only need to choose furniture that has water-resistant fabrics so that mold will not spread. You’ll be able to choose from the same kind of designs that would look great inside your home. An outdoor rug, beautiful lighting and some well-chosen planters will complete the look and make your guests feel right at home at your next get together.

Landscaping design can do a lot to make your yard look beautiful and to increase your home’s curb appeal. However, installing a patio or redesigning your home’s outdoor entertaining area can take your home design to a whole other level.

Consider giving your outdoor space a makeover with some of these design trends. Not only will your home look beautiful, but your place will become the hotspot for weekend get togethers with your friends and family. You’ll soon start creating wonderful memories.