Patio Design Principles

5 Basic Design Principles for your Patio

So the weather is finally cooperating and it's time to enjoy the outdoors once again. Whether you're completing a new patio or updating an existing one, the final touches can make all the difference in your end result. Much the same as an interior room makeover, elements such as lighting, furniture, accessories and décor will all have to be thought through. While most room renovations can easily incorporate many of the original elements (or re-purposed items from other rooms) new patios often require an innovative plan and fresh ideas. Either way, when planning your patio design or makeover, it's a good idea to follow some of the basic design principles that are used for interior spaces.

1. Balance -The placement of objects with consideration to their visual weight. This can be either:
   • Formal or symmetrically placed furniture. Think of a bed that is flanked by nightstands.
   • Informal or asymmetrical balance. Imagine a couch across from two side-by-side chairs.
   • Radical balance. A central element with elements radiating outward. Visualize a dining table with surrounding chairs.
2. Rhythm - Repetition in design helps the eye move around and ties the space together. It can be repeated in color, form or texture, in the actual pavers or any other element of the patio.
3. Harmony- The design elements, arrangement and color should all (or mostly) come from the same style idea. For example, modern, country or rustic.
4. Emphasis - The space should have a focal point. Good outdoor focal points are fireplaces, fire pits, fountains and large or group plantings.
5. Proportion and Scale - Is the ratio from size of one part to another and how it relates to the space as a whole? A large space would look awkward with lots of small chairs, unless they are grouped together to create a seemingly larger, singular object, like in an outdoor wedding set up.