Ideas for a Patio: How About a Rough and Rustic Patio With a Fireplace?

If you want your backyard transformed into a plushy extension of your house, try building a patio. A patio can be paved, enclosed, outdoor space, garden backyard and seating areas. It can be your ideal sanctuary to relax, cook, enjoy, have fun and entertain. Patios have become very popular in this century because of the growing number of the senior members of society who adore these outdoor living spaces. Its growth is phenomenal that it is rapidly becoming the trend and may eventually be a standard feature to home design and architecture. What is beautiful about patios is the added value it gives to the property.

If your idea of a patio is an enclosed type, the patio's roof is attached to an adjacent home structure. You can have it with a screened opening. It is fully functional with wall framing, siding, interior wall coverings, windows and doors complete with amenities like coffee tables and chairs or if it is big enough to fit a dining. You can have built-in grills or BBQ grills, countertops, gas supply lines, sinks, plumbing, fireplaces, stoves and other appliances. Designing a patio to blend with your home is not difficult. There are so many design ideas you can get from the net and architectural books and magazines.

Depending on the architectural motif of your house and garden, you can blend it with the type of patio you can construct. If you want a natural look, how about a stone patio laid with mortar compound. Stone can be a blue or flagstone. For a classic and traditional look, your idea for a patio can be a brick style which is easy to install because of its standard size and shape. If you want something unique, the idea of a tile patio can appeal to you like the terra cotta tile and quarry tiles. The most cost effective type of patio is the concrete being the less expensive. You can create an authentic looking stone, cobblestone, brick or natural materials dyed and stamped with colored concrete mixture.

Basically, there are various styles, designs and layout for patios. When it comes to patio flooring, you can do it with concrete slabs and pavers or molded bricks. They come in many colors, textures, patterns and shapes. If you want a rough and rustic look, natural materials of fieldstone and weather woods can create that unique aesthetic look. The flooring sets the tone for the patio. Natural dyes can create a vivid and brilliant color of your choice be it faded hues, sun-washed blues, soft greens for a subtle background paving.

Play up whatever style of patio you choose with amenities that will blend to give it a touch of sophistication, elegance, simplicity and attractiveness. Your choice of antique or modern look will determine the kind of furnishings and fixtures. For accents, it can include arches, gazebos, twining grapevines, lamps, lighting effects, bar stools, baskets with flowers and whatever decors to create the mood and environment you desire. An outdoor fireplace is one idea for a patio that can make it your enjoyable and favorite outdoor space throughout the year and for years to come!

Tag : patio,rough,rustic

Building Your Patio - How to Select the Types of Patio Materials?

s and colors and is cheap. Stamped or colored concrete is a very practical solution when working on a budget.

Although you will most likely pay more for colored or stamped concrete compared to plain concrete, the amazing transformation will be well worth the investment. A good and creative contractor can render endless array of decorative effects, from rustic earth-toned sidewalks and patios that harmonize with the surrounding landscape or garden to vibrant multicolored concrete floors that double as works of art.

5. Brick

Brick is one of the most popular choice for patios because it is easy to install, looks great and is preferred by most DIY enthusiasts. This type of patio material offer a very traditional look in terms of warm, earthy colors and last a long time.

Bricks can be installed on sand base or concrete pavements regardless of whether you use mortar or not and extremely durable in cold climates.

It can have a variety of patterns as well because of its uniform shape and size, thus add a lot of personality and individually to your patio. The color of brick looks extremely nice and attractive on a patio especially if it is surrounded by a garden.

6. Tiles

Tile is an extremely versatile patio material that any patio utilize it will be one of a kind. Please ensure that the tile is designed for outdoor use. Furthermore, unglazed tile is less slippery than glazed tile when wet. It comes in many different shapes, colors, textures. The endless varieties you can choose from is one of the many reasons why it is a good choice for patios. There are various types such as,

• Machine-made quarry tiles
• Fired terra-cotta tiles
• Molded paver tiles
• Synthetic-stone tiles

They can be used virtually on any type of surface. Tiles are very comfortable to walk on and relatively smooth which makes it safe to use. Hence, there will be little fear of people tripping on any part of it. In addition, patio furniture will sit squarely on the tiles surface, that may not happen if you use another type of patio materials.

It's your choice after all

All the above mentioned are excellent patio materials to be use for your patio. In addition, you can even use a combination of different types of patio materials to make your patio comfortable. Also, you have to consider the drainage properties of each material. For instance, individual stones, bricks, or pavers will let water through more than a whole slab of concrete.

In addition, you may also want to choose the material colors that you can match with your favorite patio furniture and combining different materials is also possible as long as they are properly matched. In any case, it is best to seek professional assistance and advise when using any of the patio material discussed above.

Tag : patio,patio materials,building,materials,patio furuiture

Patio Torches: Know the Basic Facts About These Tiki Torches

Lighted patio torches commonly grace the lawns of homeowners who are having night parties. You can see these torches along patios, passageways, pools or gardens as decorative lighting. These torches originated in the Tropics. In some five-star hotels, when they hold monthly Hawaiian or Caribbean themed parties, bamboo patio torches are used to enhance the landscape setting. torches made of bamboo poles exude a touch of exotic ambiance. Hotel guests truly enjoy their stay in a tropical atmosphere where they can have fun and relax in peace.

To give you an idea of how these bamboo torches look, they are made of bamboo stalk of about 1.5 meters high. It is hollow inside. A patio torch is commonly known as tiki torch. On top of the pole is a wick, small container for the fuel and cap. The cap is necessary for the protection of the wick from moisture and for putting out the flame. LPG gas or Propane and Citronella oil are used as fuel to ignite the bamboo patio torch. Nice thing about propane is you can adjust the flame height.

Patio torches have also evolved through the years. Modern technology enters the scene with solar lighted and metal type of patio torches. Solar patio torches provide eco-friendly lighting. They give out a subtle and radiant glow without the use of electricity or fuel. Solar powered torches are cost efficient and come in various shapes, sizes, colors and designs. It is powered by LED lights and has some features which are beneficial in this "love your environment" age. You can order a solar Hawaiian bamboo look tiki torch with a ground stake, 2 flicker amber LED bulbs, frosted lens and rechargeable NiCad batteries. In effect, the island atmosphere of fire flame powered torches is eliminated when you use solar lighted torches. If you still want to retain the tropical ambiance, the solution is to light up your festivities with a mix of bamboo oil or gas torch and the bamboo look solar lighted torches.

Recently, arising from the creativity and imagination of industry stakeholders, they came up with metal torches like the copper, aluminum, nickel and brass tiki torches. These torches come in different standing and wall mounted designs in unique shapes and sizes. One model is the beautiful long leaf copper patio torch with spiral wall bracket and torch lantern. You can choose the shiny brushed finish or the rough, rustic antique finish. Metal torches need special polishing to prevent tarnishing.

Safety at all times should be your priority. Proper maintenance should be done when you store these torches together with the fuels and other accessories. Regular periodic check up should be made to make sure these torches are in proper condition. Don't forget also to check up and maintain your fire safety and protection equipments. These equipments should always be ready for use whenever your patio torches are lighted up particularly the gas and oil kinds.

Patio Design And Patio Furniture - The Use Of Focal Points

A focal point is an important design element; it is a place where the eye naturally comes to rest. In a well-designed patio there is always a planned focal point, such as a large dining set, perhaps with a well-selected umbrella. But a patio’s focal point could also be another interesting object or landscape feature.

Examples of landscape features that can be a patio’s focal point are an interesting pathway leading from the patio to an area beyond, a flower garden, a mature tree, or a dramatic view of the back lawn.

However, an outdoor dining table with chairs is often a natural focal point because of its size. If you intend to have a large outdoor dining set, there are several things to keep in mind.

Be conscious of the style of the table and chairs and try to keep styles the same. If you have a very rustic patio, then a contemporary table and chairs may not go well together. It is usually a good idea to maintain the same decor style.

Select the colors of the furniture and cushions with care. Visualize the furniture in the location where they will be used. The colors should be similar or complimentary to the surrounding area.

An umbrella is a good addition if it is appropriate. An umbrella in an area already covered may look odd. However, umbrellas usually work well in screened-in areas that are still exposed to direct sunlight. If you buy an umbrella separately from the table and chairs, make very sure the colors and patterns go well with each other as well as the surroundings.

A pair of chaise lounges with an umbrella could also be an interesting focal point. The umbrella would have its own stand. Of course, the cushions on the chaise lounges and the umbrella material would have to either match or be complimentary with each other.

A statue, fountain, or other ornament can be used as a focal point. However, several things should be kept in mind. If using a statue, the statue and its size must be in keeping with its surroundings, the style of the house, and the decor of the patio. A large statue of the god Jupiter would probably not look well on a patio with, for example, western decor. But a statue of Venus in a traditional English garden setting would be a pleasing addition. A graceful statue would bring an air of serenity.

Size is important as you would not want to overpower the surrounding garden features with a statue that is too large. One of the most agreeable placements for a nicely sized statue within a garden setting is placement by a wall, such as a red brick wall, especially where there are plants, including climbing plants. Never place a statue in isolation, but in an area where it can become part of its surroundings.

These are but a few examples of possible focal points in a patio or garden setting. There are many other possibilities. The important thing is to include the focal point naturally within the patio or garden environment so that it blends in and be in harmony with its surroundings.

Want To Know More About Gas Patio Heaters?

Some wonderful about gas patio heaters have been created specifically for outdoor use in places such as coffee shops, restaurants, private clubs, and more. The about gas patio heaters you will find can be very luxurious, rustic, simplistic, and everything in between.

Examples:

- Environment:

You can purchase about gas patio heaters for your workplace that will simply do wonders for you. Many people enjoy being outdoors during his or her breaks from their work—and there are countless office facilities, call centers, etc. Because of these about gas patio heaters, many employees and employers can still relax and unwind outside—even in the cold weather.

- Smokers in the cold:

- You want the very best about gas patio heaters possible on the market today they will be like a gift this season: a wonderful surprise that emits warmth and comfort for you. In addition, a company usually prefers that its employees and patrons do not smoke in or near the building, making it virtually freezing to smoke in the winter. However, if simple gas heaters are set up away from the building—everyone can be happy.

- Public dining and other businesses:

Many public dining and other business places have nice patios set up for the warmer season—but it won’t have to be just a warm-weather patio if you choose. About gas patio heaters will provide you with high quality dependability and effectiveness.

- YOUR HOME!

It is amazing what about gas patio heaters can do! It is wonderful to have impressive, beautiful and pleasing to the eye about gas patio heatersfor outdoor happy times through the entire year.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, parenting, recreation, education and décor. Her background includes teaching and gardening. For more of her articles about outdoor heaters, please visit Outdoor Gas Patio Heaters.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anne_Clarke

Patio Design And Patio Furniture - The Use Of Focal Points

A focal point is an important design element; it is a place where the eye naturally comes to rest. In a well-designed patio there is always a planned focal point, such as a large dining set, perhaps with a well-selected umbrella. But a patio’s focal point could also be another interesting object or a landscape feature.

Examples of landscape features that can serve as a patio’s focal point are an interesting pathway leading from the patio to an area beyond, a flower garden, a mature tree, or a dramatic view of the back lawn.

However, patio furniture is often used as a focal point. An outdoor dining table and chairs is often a natural focal point because of its size. If you intend to have a large outdoor dining set, there are several things to keep in mind.

Be conscious of the style of the table and chairs and if you have other patio furniture, try to keep styles consistent. If you have a very rustic patio, then a contemporary table and chairs may not go well together. It is always a good idea to have only one decor style.

Select the colors of the furniture and cushions with care. Visualize the furniture in the location where they will be used. The colors should be similar or complimentary to the surrounding area.

An umbrella is a good addition if it is appropriate. An umbrella in an area already covered may look odd. However, umbrellas usually work well in screened-in areas that are still exposed to direct sunlight. If you buy an umbrella separately from the table and chairs, make very sure the colors and patterns go well with each other as well as their surroundings.

A pair of chaise lounges with an umbrella could also be an interesting focal point. The umbrella would have its own stand. Of course, the cushions on the chaise lounges and the material of the umbrella would have to either match or be complimentary with each other.

A statue, fountain, or other ornament can be used as a focal point. However several things should be kept in mind. If using a statue, the statue and its size must be in keeping with its surroundings, the style of the house, and the decor of the patio. A large statue of the god Jupiter would probably not look well on a patio with, for example, western decor. But a statue of Venus in a traditional English garden setting would be a pleasing addition. A graceful statue would bring an air of serenity.

Size is important as you would not want to overpower the surrounding garden features with a statue that is too large. One of the most agreeable placements for a nicely sized statue within a garden setting is placement by a wall, such as a red brick wall, especially where there are plants, including climbing plants. Never place a statue in isolation, but in an area where it can become part of its surroundings.

These are but a few examples of possible focal points in a patio or garden setting. There are many other possibilities. The important thing is to include the focal point naturally within the patio or garden environment so that it blends in and be in harmony with its surroundings.

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Patio Furniture: Personalize Your Patio with Style

Your patio is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Whether it’s a relaxing evening after a long day at work or a weekend afternoon of entertaining friends and family, your patio serves as an intricate part of spending time outdoors. To make the most of your patio, you should consider adding outdoor furniture to it. Patio furniture comes in a variety of styles and materials, making it possible for you to choose one that fits your personal decorating style. Some of the most popular types include teak patio furniture, wrought iron patio furniture, and wicker patio furniture.

Teak patio furniture looks great when it’s used with just about any decorating style. It looks especially good with the rustic style, since it is usually left as a natural wood color. Teak furniture looks great on just about any wooden deck because the wood on the furniture and on the deck compliment each other.

If your style is more traditional, wrought iron patio furniture would be a great choice. Wrought iron furniture has a lot of shapes and curves to it, making it look elaborate and elegant for the English traditional style of décor. Wrought iron can also go well with other decorating styles since its slender, simple lines make it look plain enough to blend in with almost any outdoor setting.

Wicker patio furniture has been used extensively to compliment many outdoor areas. Beach houses often use wicker furniture for porches and sunrooms. Since it is lightweight, it’s great for an area where you want to be able to move the furniture from one place to another. The woven, braided look that wicker patio furniture has makes it a very noticeable feature of a patio.

Patio furniture can provide you with a comfortable place to enjoy your outdoor area. With all the choices available in patio furniture, there is sure to be one that will fit your decorating style perfectly.

If you’ve enjoyed this article and would like more free information on Patio Furniture, visit the ultimate online guide for patio furniture at http://www.patio-furniture-depot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amanda_Taylor

Patio Tables – Prepare Your Patio For Good Times

Big or small patio tables come in almost as many sizes and styles as their interior counterparts. And they’re one thing your patio can’t be without.

Choose from coffee, side or end tables to keep your drink and book close at hand and even put your feet up. If you like outdoor entertaining, try a dinner table with chair or go for causal chic appeal with a traditional picnic or truss table. Or maybe you just want a small round one to sit at in the morning and enjoy a cup of Joe.

Crafted from wood your table will last for many seasons with proper care. Choose a table made from teak, cedar or pine and it is virtually maintenance free. You may choose to treat it to maintain its original color otherwise you can let it weather to a soft silvery gray. If you prefer to not even do that you can try a table made from resin that looks like painted wood. Resin and pine tables are available in various colors to match or brighten your outdoor décor.

Rather than dragging yourself to every store in town looking for that ever elusive perfect patio table, try shopping online. Not only will you find the best selection, but the best prices as well. Choose tables with clean modern lines, smooth curves or rustic designs and compare prices where patio furniture is always in style.

It has never been easier accessorize your patio. If your patio is larger you might need more than one table. Choose a small four seater for intimate dinners and conversation and a bar table for sharing cocktails by the pool. Maybe you prefer to throw large parties. Try an extension table that stays small and gets bigger when you need it. Or use a long table on the patio for serving food buffet style and use a few bar tables in the yard for easy eating and socializing.

No matter what your need there is a patio table for you. Choose from end tables, coffee tables, bar tables and dinner tables. Made from wood or resin they will add to the beauty and functionality of your patio or deck.

Imagine sipping your morning coffee and watching the sunrise from your new teak table perched on your deck. The sot misty colors greet you in the sunlight. Later in the afternoon you might lounge on your Adirondack chair in the corner and rest a cold glass of lemonade on the end table next to it. That evening you sip an icy mojito with someone special at the bar table as the sky is streaked with golden twilight. A patio just isn’t complete without patio tables for resting drinks and sharing food. Some may even hold a lamp. Outdoor furniture, like patio tables, helps you set the mood for making great memories while enjoying the simple joys of summer. Get ready for an epic summer and even fall with some new patio tables for your backyard retreat. Once it is properly furnished you may never want to leave your patio paradise.

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Decorating Your Patio

Before you purchase anything to decorate your patio, you should first prepare a plan or drawing of your patio area complete with exact measurements. You then need to decide exactly what it is you plan on doing with your patio. Is your patio just for you and your family on a beautiful summer evening? On the other hand, do you plan to host Business meetings or parties? These are important questions that need answered before you purchase any patio furniture and furnishings. If you plan to host Business luncheons then you perhaps should make sure your patio furnishings are not a cheap plastic table and chair set. Lay it all out on paper before buying anything. How much space do you have? If you do not have enough space then maybe you should plan to build a bigger deck or patio first. Once you have got your plans drawn up and you are sure the patio is large enough, it is time to head to the store. Make sure you take your plans with you!

There are plenty of different materials used to make patio furniture. Remember what your main use of the patio will be, that will help you decide on your purchase. How much care do you want to put into looking after the patio furniture? Do you want to put it away every night? Most people want to leave their patio furniture right where it is all summer. Therefore, you will need something that can stand up to the elements.

Wooden patio furniture needs protecting with oil regularly unless you choose to paint it or perhaps you will decide to keep that rustic gray 'weathered' look. Unless you choose Teak Wood, Teak has natural oils that protect it from the environment. Aluminum is lightweight and is perfect for a low maintenance patio setting. Wrought iron patio furniture is an old favorite that suits the English garden look. Wicker outdoor patio furniture coupled with the long lasting qualities of resin is also an option. Cafe style, patio furniture is great for a quick break from your gardening. For my money, Teak wood patio furniture is the way to go, Teak is an oily dense wood that combines durability, beauty and quality and is great for outdoor furniture. Teak will naturally weather to a beautiful silver-gray.

Teak wood's density of grain prevents it from splintering. That is the reason why ship builders used it for the ships decks. Teak furniture's natural oils also resist rot and decay. You can keep the golden appearance of new teak patio furniture by simply oiling the teak every year if you do not wish for it to turn a silvery grey.

As you can see, there are many choices to make when selecting patio furniture. Always have a plan before you go shopping. Patio furniture can really enhance your outdoor living space.

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