Landscape Patio Design for Living
Patios are an Extension of our Living Area
Landscapes are most beautiful and effective when there is a space to enjoy the view. Patios that are designed to be a living area are one of the best assets of a home’s landscape, next to its trees. A well designed patio space is an ideal way to use the outdoors as an extension to your home and entertainment space.
Random Patio Stone
Limestone patio, river rock sidewalk
Patio aesthetics and construct can be created any number of interesting ways and we will cover them in no particular order. Above, this patio was extended beyond the original builders patio by placing limestone over the concrete and adding on square footage and curves to make it a custom design. Using native limestone is a great way to use sustainable materials as well as matching the stone used on the face of the home.
This pattern (above and below) is random and allows for error, but when completed by someone with talent, you would never know. This look is highly sought after in a cottage garden, English garden, or casual Hill Country Landscape.
Above, these owners used saw cut limestone block borders, saw cut limestone patio stone, and local river rock to create a unique design in the center of their space for both feature and functionality. The outcome is a beautiful space to sit with a unique perspective of the landscape.
Wood and Composite Decks
Above, this client built a custom deck built with multiple levels and entrances to the deck, home and attached landscape. While it is a beautiful work of art, it will require a lot more maintenance and eventually replacement whereas stone and concrete, when applied correctly, should last a lifetime.
Contemporary Design
Below, we used pavers for a dramatic impact in the landscape. This stunning, contemporary design was intended to capture the view as well as complement the value of the home. This multilevel approach gives a unique vantage point for every season.
This design above is a beautiful example of pavers installed by a consummate professional. Pavers are not for a novice unless you can masterfully cut, set and execute fine detail. Not only does the layout matter, but the process must be followed to the letter. anything less will result in a disastrous final product.
Lueder Stone Patio, Steps, and Raised Beds
Below, my client was looking for a way to add value to the home while solving the issue of the awkward gap between the house and sidewalk, and the sidewalk drop off to the front yard. Before it was a safety hazard and now it is a special place to plant flowers and gather to greet passing neighbors.
Stone patio, sidewalk and raised beds
In the space below, we used Travertine tile with saw cut Lueder Stone and Corten Metal. This stunning combination is a masterpiece when installed professionally and will only increase the value of the home as well as its use and low maintenance beauty. Anytime that tile is selected as a surface for an outdoor area, it is particularly important to be sure that the tile is texture to avoid slipping accidents, which are very common with a slick surface material
Outdoor Tile and Corten Metal
Corten metal planters with travertine patio and Lueder step stones.
The patio below is another example of an existing builders patio with a much larger addition of patio stone and steps that lead you into the landscape. We also added an adjacent pond that bring birds and native wildlife to the patio area for shared enjoyment. Add a purgola, fireplace or water feature and you have an outdoor living area that is suitable all year.
Design for Small Spaces
Even a small space can be transformed to a patio or meditation space and seating area. By adding large stones for seating, or simple patio chairs and a table, you can create a space to “get away from it all”, or just to be one with nature, if only for a moment.
Simple rock seating for reading, yoga or meditation.
By including some stepping stones and a seating area to the existing landscape you can create a small, intimate patio setting for enjoyment of the space while being enveloped by it.
No matter your budget there is a solution for creating a space you take in some fresh air and sunshine. Landscape design is much more than plants, it is about inviting the opportunity to extend our living area and to sit with nature and its healing energy. Rather it’s to create a small medication space, a simple bench and a birdbath, a swing or hammock area, or an elaborate patio design, be sure to include multiple opportunities to sit and enjoy the view.
If you’d like help coming up with a design or concept to extend your living area, contact me for a consultation and let’s see what we can create for your new patio and living space.
Lisa LaPaso
Lisa’s Landscape & Design
”Saving the Planet One Yard at a Time”
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- Posted in: Central Texas Gardens ♦ Gardening in Central Texas ♦ Hardscapes ♦ Hill Country Modern Landscapes ♦ Landscape and Design ♦ Landscape Consultation ♦ Patios
- Tagged: area, Decks, Design, landscape, Limestone, living, metal, patio, pavers, rock, stone