Patio designs aren’t limited, like indoor rooms, by the need for walls and ceilings. This means that they don’t have to conform to a standard box-like shape and can assume any shape and size that the landscape can accommodate. This makes designing a patio with the help of a landscape contractor exciting and gives you an avenue for expressing your artistic flair. However, it is important to ensure that the patio shape and size you select is well-suited to your Pottsville, PA, landscape. Factors that dictate patio shape include the property layout, the desired purpose of the patio, and the style of the home and existing hardscape. Here are a few reasons why you may want to opt for a particular patio shape in 2019:
An Angular Shape
Square and rectangular patios are common choices, despite being considered the least creative. They are so popular because they are not only practical, but they are also cost-effective to construct. Pavers, bricks, and cut stone can be comparatively easy to lay in a formation that’s compatible with a square or rectangle. Many homeowners opt for an understated patio shape that gets the job done and elect to bring creativity into their material selection and decor. While a large rectangular patio may sound monotonous, it can be separated into different outdoor rooms by using various paving materials and constructing clear vertical barriers like seat walls. The straight edges and sharp angles that these patio shapes feature fit well into formal or modern landscape designs. A square patio also makes the most economical use of space and is a good option for homeowners planning to entertain large groups.
Related: Update Your South Whitehall, PA, Patio for Fall with These Landscape Design Ideas
A Rounded Shape
Round patios are often constructed with a focal point in the center. This focal point can take the form of a circular Zen-like pool, round dining table, or fire pit. The feature you select to be the focal point of your patio will help to determine its atmosphere, whether it’s warm and cozy or cool and tranquil. Rounded patios can take the form of a full circle or half circle, depending on the space available and the nature of the surrounding structures. Full circles tend to stand independently while half circles often join onto an adjacent patio or other structure. Lacking the sharp angles and unnaturally straight lines found in square and rectangular patios, rounded patios blend better into the surrounding natural softscape. They are, therefore, better candidates than angular patios for tranquil backyard getaways.
A Free-form Shape
Free-form patios have unpredictable shapes and can taper at any point in their trajectory. They can be curved with sweeping edges or made angular with unpredictable changes in shape. As a result, they can be nestled into both organic and contemporary landscapes. A meandering patio can weave in between other permanent structures and natural features, like trees, for a hardscape and softscape that are seamlessly intertwined. A curvaceous, asymmetrical free-form patio can turn a pool into an aquatic oasis—even more so when featuring the shades and textures of natural stone. Paving a free-form patio may require more forethought and expertise, but will be well worth the time it takes.
Image courtesy of Unilock.
