outdoor entertainment
The number one primary use of a patio is entertaining friends, family, and neighbors. Australia is blessed with great weather, but while we all love spending time outdoors, it’s not comfortable sitting out in the sun for long. A patio offers the perfect place to sit outside in the shade. Most people have a selection of outdoor furniture in their patio area, from comfortable outdoor sofas and chairs to tables and dining sets.
With the addition of lighting, television and music, your patio is the best place to entertain guests in the summer. And if you buy a patio heater, you can keep the party going well into winter. A few extra blankets should protect you and your guests on chilly nights.
cooking
The next best use of a patio is for cooking. Why use a kitchen when you can grill food on an outdoor barbecue? Many Australians turn their patio into an outdoor kitchen. It’s surprisingly easy to do these days thanks to some very stylish and affordable outdoor kitchen appliances. If you decide to set up an outdoor kitchen, plan carefully. In addition to a barbecue, outdoor grill, or pizza oven, you’ll need a food prep area, sink, storage cabinets, and perhaps a mini-fridge or ice chest. Make sure you have enough space to cook and eat, and if space is tight, consider expanding your patio.
Recreational activities
Families often have games and toys in the yard so that children can play in the shade. Throw in a rug and some cushions so the kids are comfortable while the adults make the most of the chairs. A patio is also a great place to put a pool table or game console. The noise will be less disturbing if you want peace and quiet inside. Add some lighting, and you can use your patio well into the night. You may also choose to suggest that your other half disassemble your car engine on the patio instead of indoors at the kitchen table.
relaxing
There’s not much better than relaxing on your patio when it’s hot outside. Curling up with a good book and a cold beer in the shade of your patio is very relaxing, which is why millions of Australians use their patio to relax.
grow plants
Patios are excellent growing areas. There are many plants that thrive in the shelter of a patio, so if you have green fingers, start growing potted plants, herbs, fruit trees and vines, and vegetables. Choose plants that prefer shade, and be sure to water them regularly.
Do you have any other suggestions on how to use a patio? Let us know!
