How to Transform Your Patio with Patio Umbrellas and Other Accessories
Patio umbrellas and other outdoor accessories can transform a boring patio. You may have only a simple concrete slab or small, plain deck, especially if your home itself is small. But choosing a few key accessories to address main concerns can transform your patio in two ways. First, patio umbrellas and other items, when well chosen, bring an attractive makeover to the space. You might be surprised how just a few items can totally change the look of your patio.
Secondly, these accessories change the feel of your patio. What we see often influences how we feel. Disorganized surroundings can make us feel chaotic and harried, too. Likewise, organized surroundings help us feel more productive and at ease.
If your outdoor area is small, stick with light colors, including white, tan, beige, ivory, or pastels. Your space doesn’t need to be devoid of color, but you should avoid deep or dark colors, which make the space feel more closed in. This principle applies to all your accessories (chair cushions, patio umbrellas, rugs, and even the Furniture frames). Many styles of patio umbrellas offer a wide range of color options for the canopies. Only select the darker colors if your yard is roomy enough to handle them. Pay attention to the dimensions of patio umbrellas, as well. They don’t all come in the same size, and you’ll want one that fits both your deck and your dining table.
Keep an eye out for furniture in slim and simple designs. This trick also helps your patio feel more open and less cluttered. Bypass the chairs and tables with more ornate designs. Note the pieces with thin legs, armrests, and backs. Furniture with more slender construction looks good in small spaces.
Patio umbrellas can help increase your privacy, which might be a big concern if your house is close to your neighbor’s or to a busy road. But more effective methods besides patio umbrellas do exist. Consider hedges, fences, privacy screens, lattices, arbors, or walls. You can intersperse planters with boundaries to make them look more appealing. Or if you prefer a totally leafy boundary, you should concentrate on planning a hedge or choosing climbing plants for a lattice or fence. You can also buy combination pieces. For instance, a planter bench with lattice connected to the back will offer planters, seating, and a structure for growing climbing plants. Place these accessories around your yard, and you gain both privacy and extra seating.
The key to transforming your patio is picking patio umbrellas, furniture, and other accessories with care. Instead of buying the first piece you like, make informed choices, based on the effect the Design will have on your patio or outdoor space. Think about the level of simplicity or ornateness in the design. Don’t forget to factor in color. Plan ways to increase your privacy. If you look at tables and patio umbrellas separately, consider how your choices will look together. Remember to shop for tables with pre-cut umbrella holes to save yourself trouble later. If you need splashes of vibrant color, add flowers in moderation to spice up your patio.
Todd Arend is a freelance writer who enjoys outdoor getaways. He writes about choosing patio umbrellas and arranging outdoor furniture for http://www.outdoorfurnitureplus.com.