5 Common Patio Design Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When it comes to outdoor living, it’s better to avoid common patio design mistakes. A patio is where you’ll commonly spend your evenings or enjoy entertaining. So, it’s worth spending the money, time, and effort to get it right.

If you don’t know what to look for, you may end up with a cheaply made patio that lasts a year or two before you have to replace it.

Read on to learn what mistakes to avoid while building patios and how to create something that will last.

Common Patio Design Mistakes

Giving your new patio the right design requires knowing what can hinder your progress. Here are common patio design mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Overlooking the Function of Your Patio

A patio is a great place to relax and entertain guests, but if it’s not properly designed, it can be a headache. Make sure to consider how you’ll be using your patio before you start designing.

Do you want a place to relax and read? Do you want a space for outdoor dining? Once you know how you want to use your patio, you can start planning your design.

2. Skimping on Furniture and Accessories 

A common mistake is to choose cheap, flimsy furniture for patios that will fall apart after a season or two. Not only is this a waste of money, but it’s also a waste of time and effort. Instead, invest in high-quality, durable furniture that will last for years.

Another common mistake is to neglect to accessorize. Your patio should be an extension of your home, and as such, it should be furnished and decorated accordingly. Add some throw pillows, a few potted plants, and a few outdoor lanterns to create a welcoming and inviting space.

3. Not Incorporating Enough Greenery

This can be avoided by adding potted plants, hanging baskets, or even just grasses and shrubs to the perimeter of the patio. Incorporating greenery into the design will not only add color and life to the space but will also help to create a more inviting and relaxing atmosphere.

4. Creating an Uninviting Color Scheme

Consider your patio’s purpose and the vibe you want to create before you decide on a color scheme. If you want a space with different patio colors to relax and feel at peace, stick to cooler colors like blues and greens.

However, if you’re looking to create a more inviting and energetic space, warmer colors like reds and oranges may be more up your alley.

5. Forgoing Important Details Like Lighting and Fireplace 

Without proper lighting, your patio will be unusable after dark, and you’ll miss out on one of the best parts of owning a patio — nighttime entertaining! To avoid this mistake, make sure to include lighting in your initial patio design plans. String lights, lanterns, and candles are all great lighting options for a patio.

If you plan to do a lot of nighttime entertaining, you might even want to consider installing permanent lighting, like deck lighting or patio lights. Adding a fire bowl creates a classy and dramatic lighting effect while providing warmth. Check out pool fire bowls to achieve the best patio vibe you’re going for. 

Avoid These Mistakes and Get it Right the First Time 

If you’re planning to update your patio, avoid common patio design mistakes by considering the purpose of the space, choosing the right materials, and paying attention to the details. With a little forethought, you can create a patio that will be both stylish and functional for years to come.

Visit the home improvement section of our blog for more ideas and inspiration.