Four Stylish Patio Ideas for Every Type of Host
As Mother Nature ushers in warmer weather, the prospect of lounging, entertaining and dining alfresco will soon become a blissful reality rather than a mere pipe dream. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a charming city balcony, there are many stylish patio furniture and decorating ideas and trends suited to any host on any budget. Your patio is an extension of your home, and needless to say, you're likely to spend every minute possible in your outdoor oasis this spring and summer. Why not show it the same TLC as your interiors and take inspiration from one (or all) of the following outdoor patio ideas.
Pictured: Aman 84" 9 Pc Rectangular Dining Package
The One With the More the Merrier
This one is for the host who loves to invite all of their family and friends to bask in each other's good company and better food. Longer dining tables are best for this style, as it serves as the foundation of your hosting. Choose something sturdy made of wood, cast iron or aluminum, with matching (or even mismatched) chairs. You can also opt to place long benches to line either side of the table, or on only one side with chairs on the other to maximize seating. It can be easy to feel separated from your guests at a long table, which is why accent pieces are important to bridge any gaps. These can include candles, flowers, and decorative bowls or trays (which can then be used to serve food). If you're tight on space and don't necessarily have the square footage to accommodate a long dining table, picnic benches are a great, space-saving alternative. You can also get creative with built-in benches tailor-made to your space in addition to a traditional patio table and chairs. Large floor cushions are also great alternatives to maximize seating for your guests.
Pictured: Auxerre 48" Round Glass Table
The One With the Intimate Brunch Gathering
For the host who loves to invite their closest friends and family for Sunday (or, any day of the week) brunch, opt for a circular dining table to capture the intimate vibe and allow every guest the opportunity to interact and partake easily in conversation. A circular, or oval, table is best complemented with a show-stopping centrepiece, such as a bowl full of fresh fruit (that you can also enjoy), a bouquet of flowers, potted succulents or other plants, or an arrangement of candles. Stay on trend by choosing a high-top table and bar stools accented with colourful pillows for added comfort and style. This style works especially well if you have a balcony with an opaque railing, as it better enables you to take in the views. Depending on your chosen brunch cuisine, you may consider investing in a good BBQ to grill all kinds of food perfect for any meal of the day. Continue your intimate brunch vibes long throughout the night by hanging lanterns or fairy lights around your outdoor space.
Pictured: Terre 7 Pc Conversation Package
The One With the Ladies (or Gentlemen) Hotspot
There is perhaps nothing more inviting than comfortable seating arrangements (equipped with a few cocktails) for the host who can't wait to spend time relaxing en plein air with their closest friends. Sectionals are the ultimate comfy seating option and easily tie a space together inviting you and your guests to sprawl and lounge to your heart's content. You may, however, choose to opt for comfy sofas or chaise lounges that can be tied together in one central space, or dispersed around your outdoor space creating various cozy nooks. Regardless of how much space with which you have to work, plants are always a great way to inject some tranquility into your space—and when it comes to tranquility, there's no such thing as "too much". If you have the space, opt for large plants, such as a banana leaf tree or garlands of ivy. If you're tight on space, small potted succulents, cacti and any number of flora species all exude the cool, calm and tranquil vibes you're after. Sprinkle some candles, tea or fairy lights throughout the space, and you may soon find yourself snoozing alfresco.
If you plan on spending most of your day outdoors (because, why wouldn't you), then it's crucial to ensure you create spots of shade if there's no natural respite from the sun. Strategically placed umbrellas are a tried and true method of shielding ourselves from the sun's bright light and harmful UV rays. However, you can also opt for suspended canopies in fabrics that match your patio's aesthetic, or large trees or palms.
Pictured: Serrana 5-Piece Outdoor Dinette with Fire Pit
The One With the Sunday Family Bonding
For the host who looks forward to enjoying their weekend with their family, this trend ensures fun, functionality, and style. Choose a focal point for your outdoor patio, such as a sofa, sectional or collection of comfy chairs and add in complementary touches including egg chairs, a hammock and side tables. You can spruce things up by using a bold colour scheme including yellows, oranges, blues or greens. You may also decide to install a fire pit for late-night gatherings and s'mores making. However, ensure you remain in accordance with any municipal bylaws and neighbourhood considerations if you decide to do so. An outdoor ottoman is a great option for storing games, blankets, extra pillows, and other knick-knacks to ensure fun is always on hand. If you're tight on space, built-in bench seating is an efficient way to provide comfy seating that also doubles as storage. Built-in shelving units are another way to save space and store any games or books you may enjoy, as well as display family photos. Remember, however, to properly shield any furniture and miscellaneous objects from the natural elements.
No matter your style of hosting, there is no shortage of backyard and patio design ideas from which to choose. Whether you're looking to create a space for entertaining, dining, unwinding, or all three, your outdoor oasis should be an extension of your home that you, your family and friends can enjoy while the warm weather lasts.
