The must-have patio features are the ones that get you outside more often: dependable shade, a place to cook and eat, something to gather around in the evening, and plantings that do not demand constant care. Here are six features that turn a plain patio into a space you will use for hosting and for quiet nights at home.
The Patio Features That Matter Most
1. An awning for shade and protection
Shade comes first, because without it a patio is often too hot or too bright to enjoy. Retractable and stationary awnings provide shade, protect outdoor furniture from UV rays and help keep the area at a comfortable temperature.
An awning also gives you shelter from a light rain, so a summer barbecue does not have to move indoors. A retractable model lets you choose sun or shade from one day to the next.
2. An outdoor kitchen
Homeowners are moving beyond a simple grill to outdoor kitchens with built-in appliances, countertops and storage. Cooking outside means you can prepare a meal and still be part of the conversation.
Plan shade for the prep and serving areas so the cook stays cool. Follow the manufacturer’s clearance guidelines for any grill or cooking appliance, and keep open flames and high heat out from under fabric.
3. Water-wise, climate-resilient plantings
Native plants, drought-tolerant species and efficient irrigation make a patio garden easier to live with. They use less water, need less maintenance and hold up better through hot, dry stretches.
Shade helps here too. Delicate container plants do better when they are sheltered from the strongest afternoon sun.
4. A fire feature
A fire pit or outdoor fireplace adds warmth on cool evenings and gives the patio a focal point. It also stretches the season, making the space comfortable earlier in spring and later into fall.
Place a fire feature in the open, well away from the house, awnings and anything else that can burn. A retractable awning should be rolled in whenever a fire is lit nearby.
5. A durable dining table
Concrete outdoor dining tables are popular for good reason. They are sturdy, they stand up to the weather and they have a clean, modern look.
Whatever table you choose, put it where it can be shaded. Meals are far more pleasant without glare and direct heat.
6. An entertainment zone
Outdoor TVs, speakers and lounge seating turn a patio into a place for movie nights and game days. Setting aside one area for entertainment keeps cords and equipment organized.
Use electronics rated for outdoor use, and position screens in shade. Shade cuts glare and makes the picture much easier to see during the day.
Start with Shade, Then Add the Rest
Nearly every item on this list works better under cover. That is why it makes sense to decide on shade before you buy furniture or build a kitchen.
A retractable awning suits homeowners who want flexibility. If you want protection that is always in place, a fixed patio cover may be the better fit. For smaller spots, such as a back door that opens onto the patio, door canopies and window awnings keep the entry dry and the room inside cooler.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important feature for a patio?
For most homes it is shade. A patio that is comfortable in the afternoon sun gets used, and everything else you add becomes more enjoyable.
Can I use a fire pit under an awning?
No. Keep fire pits and other open flames out from under any awning, and retract a retractable awning before lighting a fire nearby.
Should I choose a retractable awning or a stationary one?
Choose retractable if you want the option of open sky. Choose stationary if you want constant coverage with nothing to adjust.
Find the Right Awning for Your Patio
Tell us how you use your patio and we will suggest shade options to match. Contact Aladdin Inc. in Wallingford or call (203) 776-9996 to get started.