Patio Arrangements for Your Family and Friends Gatherings
Now that the summer weather is finally here, thoughts start turning to being outside. Summer is all about lounging in the sun with a cold drink in your hand surrounded by friends and family. Let’s make sure your patio is on point so you can keep the great summer vibe rolling all season long!
- Decide on a Focal Point
Arranging your patio furniture around one focal point will anchor your outdoor space. Like a well-designed indoor room, building off one element gives the eye something to land on; with the rest of the furnishings and accents supporting that piece. This serves as the primary gathering point and the heart of your patio arrangement. A great idea for a focal point is a fire source. It provides a great aura you can curl up to with a book or share on chilly days with a large group. If you have the space and budget, consider a full-size version; if not, investigate fire pits, which provide flexibility and affordability. Just make sure you check local building codes to verify fire-safety and placement rules regarding outdoor fireplaces and fire pits before you invest in one.
- Design for Traffic
When deciding on the layout of your patio deck, make sure you direct the flow of traffic in a way that eases congestion. Think about the way your guests will enter and travel through your outdoor space. Have you created a clear and unobstructed path to the entrance and exit? Are there areas on your patio that will likely become crowded? It’s usually recommended that you allow 30″- 48″ of space for what you think are “high traffic areas”. This can be cut down to 24″ for areas that receive less foot traffic. Another tip? Arrange your patio furniture in a way that directs guests around the primary seating area rather than through it. This makes sure you don’t have the annoying “excuse me, pardon me” as guests try to talk to one another.
- Furniture Placement
Be sure to place the longest piece of furniture along the longest wall, facing the focal point. This will add to the area instead of detracting attention and splitting focus. Typically, these long pieces are 3 seat sofas or loveseats. Complete the look by adding several individual chairs that will encourage guests to “pull up a seat” and enjoy a good conversation!
- Multipurpose Furnishings
Space is often at a premium in outdoor living areas, which means furniture and accessories have to do double-duty. Look for benches with storage space underneath, or tables that may also be containers. These pieces don’t have to be purely utilitarian; some feature containers which allow for plants under a raised tempered-glass top. We suggest low-maintenance succulents that can add great color and texture to an overlooked space.
- Divide and Conquer
Craft an engaging outdoor living space through clever furniture arrangement. By separating your space into smaller sections you can create a dynamic and functional living area. Through this, you can create multiple areas of entertainment instead of one large patio with too much open space. Place benches and dining tables closer to the corners in small spaces, while using different textures or rugs to break up dining and relaxing areas in a larger one.
The great thing about low-weight outdoor furniture is that you can always rearrange it! It’s a great way to freshen up your backyard and adjust with the seasons; giving you a new perspective every time. We hope this gives you some ideas for your own backyard; Be sure to check out SkyHomes for more tips and information.
