You can build an outdoor entertainment area at your Connecticut home in three stages: clean up and improve the yard, create a comfortable place for guests to gather, and add a cover so sun or a passing shower does not send everyone inside. A few simple upgrades may be all it takes to turn a yard you rarely use into the place where you host.
Clean Up the Yard and Refresh the Garden
Start by removing trash, clutter and brush from the property. If you have a garden, pull the weeds and consider adding more flowers or shrubs.
Hardscaping gives the space structure and something for guests to look at. A stone path, a fountain or a low wall can define the area. One or two benches give family and friends a place to sit and enjoy the view.
Create a Place for Guests to Gather
How you set up the space depends on how much room you have, the layout of the property and your budget. A simple setup might be a table and chairs, some lighting and a fire pit.
With more space and a larger budget, you could add an outdoor kitchen so you can prepare meals while you catch up with guests. Another option is an outdoor living room, with comfortable couches or chairs arranged around a fire pit.
Think about how people will move between the house and the yard. A wide, easy-to-use patio door makes it simpler to carry food and drinks in and out and connects the indoor and outdoor spaces.
Cover Your Outdoor Entertainment Area
There is little point in investing time and money in a space you can only use in perfect weather. A cover shields you and your guests from direct sun and rain, so you can plan gatherings with more confidence through the spring, summer and fall.
Patio Covers
A patio cover is a fixed structure. It protects both people and outdoor furniture from harsh weather and keeps the area underneath more comfortable on hot days. It is a good choice if you want shade and shelter in place all the time.
Retractable Awnings
If you prefer more flexibility, a retractable awning may suit you better. Extend it when you want to cover your outdoor living space, and retract it to enjoy the sun on a mild day or to look up at the stars at night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose a patio cover or a retractable awning?
Choose a patio cover if you want permanent shelter for furniture and guests. Choose a retractable awning if you want shade on demand and open sky the rest of the time. The layout of your home and how you use the space will usually point to one or the other.
Can I use a covered patio in the rain?
A fixed patio cover is built to handle rain. A retractable awning can keep you dry in light rain, but it should be retracted in heavy rain, strong wind and snow.
What should I do first when planning the space?
Decide where guests will sit and how many people you usually host. That tells you how large the seating area and the cover need to be, and everything else can be planned around it.
Get an Estimate for Your Outdoor Space
Aladdin has helped homeowners all over Connecticut make their properties more functional and attractive. Our team can install an aluminum patio cover or a fabric retractable awning. If you are not sure which is right, we will talk through your goals and the design of your property with you. Contact us to learn more and get a quote for your project.