Planning the Perfect Patio

Whilst the beds and borders are planned for plants, a patio or terrace is planned with people in mind. A patio is a key area in any garden, and planning the perfect patio is essential if the finished result is to reflect the gardener's  lifestyle and taste in much the same way as the rest of the garden reflects his skills as a gardener.

No matter how large or small the plot of land you may have to call a garden, you can plan a patio. A patio is effectively a bridge linking indoor and outdoor living - in a similar way to a conservatory, it can become an extension of your home; an extra living area. You will want to choose decking or paving in the same way as you select your carpets or tiles for the living room. You may want heaters, awnings, tables, chairs in addition to soft furnishings such as cushions, table-clothes and napkins.

A patio can become an extra eating, relaxing or entertaining area - it is also an ideal place to show off specimen plants.

In an ideal world the patio would run directly from the house - be it back front or side. Glossy magazines are full of images of elegant patio doors opening on to a well planned and decorated terrace that overlooks an immaculate green lawn surrounded by beautiful flower beds. Not many of us are lucky enough to achieve that vision but we can plan a suitable solution for the space and budget we do have.

When space is short, if a patio is required, it may be that some other garden feature must be given up. This really is one of the main reasons for planning a garden - to give consideration to all of the garden aspects that are essential as opposed to nice-to-have.

The design of the patio should enhance and blend with the design of the house and the rest of the garden. It should be a feature rather than an eyesore. Locating the patio adjacent to one  wall of the house can offer shelter from prevailing winds although consideration should also be given to the apparent passage of the sun during the day. No-one will want to spend time on a patio if the sun is always shining on the other side of the house.

Patios have increasingly become associated with relaxation. Little places of calm and peace and it is for this reason that they are growing in popularity. The Japanese have long known the value of being in touch with nature in their Zen gardens (the real ones - not the executive sand pits!). Make your patio a place to which you can retreat after a hard day at the office or working in the garden.

You may want to make provision to cook and serve food on your patio. There is something about eating al fresco that improves the enjoyment of the food and the occasion. Perhaps you'll want to plan a barbecue structure as part of your patio with a storage area for barbecue tools. All of this will depend on your individual lifestyle choices and you should plan what is right for you.

You may decide to shelter your patio by constructing a screen or pergola structure. These can be used to grow climbing plants and can be particularly spectacular when some the scented varieties are chosen.

Building a patio will represent a significant investment of time and money so you will want to get it right. Planning the perfect patio for your family needs will ensure the area is used and enjoyed by everyone.