A Homeowner’s Complete Guide to the Different Types of Patios

Patio popularity is on the rise as 58% of new homes include a patio. These outdoor living spaces can give you and your family an area outside of your home to gather with friends while enjoying nature.

There are a few different types of patios you can choose from to create an oasis in your backyard. The type you choose will depend on how much space you have and what you want to do in your backyard.

Get started creating the backyard of your dreams by learning about the many different patio styles.

Outdoor Dining Patio

Do you love dining outdoors with friends and family? It could be a Sunday morning brunch or a Saturday evening dinner under the stars.

Either way, you’ll need a patio that is big enough to support a large dining table and chairs. For most people, this means dedicating a 12 by 12-foot space for their patio.

You’ll also need to place your patio near the door to the house. This way, you can quickly bring food in and out.

If this isn’t possible, you can include an outdoor kitchen with your patio. This way, you can cook and dine all outside.

This is an excellent option if you plan to entertain. That way, you aren’t isolated from your guests in the kitchen cooking while everyone else gathers and socializes outside.

Living Room Patio

Maybe you love entertaining and socializing outdoors, but you don’t want to serve big sit-down meals. Then a living room patio is the way to go.

A living room patio is typically 16 by 18 feet. They usually have a fire pit or a fireplace. Then have several deep seating options. You could have several chairs or a large outdoor couch.

You want to create a living room outside. Choose furniture that you will want to curl up and relax in. Be sure to account for space to move around the furniture.

You can design the space like you would your indoor living room. Place side tables or a large coffee table to provide a place to set drinks and snacks.

Place a large outdoor rug down to tie the entire space together. You could even have an outdoor TV placed on the wall for summer night viewing parties of your favorite show.

Bistro Patio

If your backyard isn’t large enough to support the first two patio types, then maybe a bistro patio will be perfect for you. This sized patio is just big enough to fit a small table and two chairs.

Embrace the bistro look and choose a simple metal table and two chairs. The table should be on the smaller side, just big enough for two plates and coffee.

This cute little spot is perfect for the breakfast lover. You can head out to your personal little outdoor bistro spot and enjoy the morning outdoors while you sip your coffee.

All you need is a 6 by 6-foot square space. The best part is that you can place it anywhere in your backyard. Create a mini oasis by placing it in your backyard surrounded by plants with a pathway to the door.

To give your patio a focal point, create a water feature. A wall waterfall won’t take up much room but will have a big effect on the atmosphere on your patio.

Sundeck Patio

Does your home have a pool or a great view? Then a sundeck patio would be the perfect addition to your home. This is a place where you can lay out and soak up the sun.

Unlike the other patios on this list, you can make your sundeck as big or as small as you want. Just keep in mind that the average chaise lounge measures 2 by 6-feet.

You’ll probably want space for at least two chairs so you can lounge with a friend. Then you’ll need some extra space to move around the chairs.

Kitchen and Bar

Do you love hanging out with friends and having a few drinks? Or maybe you love to host a party and play bartender.

You can create an outdoor gathering space that features a beautiful bar and kitchen. There could be a bar area that has a counter workspace on one side and a raised bar on the other. Then line barstools to give people a place to sit and enjoy a drink.

Your kitchen can include all the appliances you need to create a delicious meal for your family and friends.

Other Things to Consider

Once you know what type of patio you want to create, there are a few other elements you need to think about. These will help define the space and create a patio that is both beautiful and functional.

Freestanding or Attached

If you have a large enough property, a freestanding patio gives you a tranquil escape from the activity of the house. However, if you are looking for an extension of the home, attached is the better choice.

Shape

Your patio doesn’t have to be square. You could make your patio L, or U shaped and have it accessible from different rooms within the home.

Working with professionals can help you create the ideal shape that is both functional and fits your backyard.

Multi-Level

Does your property slope? Then embrace this natural feature and build multiple levels into your patio. You can connect the different levels with steps or a stone path.

This lets you create different spaces for different types of entertaining. One level could have a small bistro table area. Another area could have your dining or living room patio.

Choose from These Types of Patios

If your backyard space is looking a bit drab, then it’s time to give it new life by creating a patio space. Before choosing from these types of patios, think about the amount of space you have to work with and what your lifestyle is like.

Sometimes the best way to make a decision is to look at examples and talk with a professional. They can help guide you in creating an outdoor space that you will love.

Schedule a consultation and make your outdoor living dreams a reality.