Best Design Tips For Creating Your Perfect Patio

The patio is one of the most underutilized parts of a home. A good patio doesn’t just give your home more living space, it also increases its value significantly. Getting a good patio isn’t simple though as not everyone has a keen eye for aesthetics. But that’s where the best hardscaping services in Ankeny can step in.

This guide will help you design a patio that’s not only beautiful but also functional for your lifestyle.

Start with a Purpose

You’re probably excited to dig right in and start choosing your materials but hold for a second. As with any major home project, you need to plan ahead.

Remember, a patio doesn’t just have to be the outside space of your home. It can be an outdoor kitchen, a hangout spot, or something as simple as a place where you can relax.

If you want to make it solely a hangout spit, you’ll need room for a dining table—or even an outdoor kitchen. If you’re all about relaxation, focus on comfortable seating and shade. Defining your patio’s purpose from the start makes every other decision easier.

While on this part, make sure to consider the logistics. Those include your budget and the space that you have for the patio.

Pick the Right Spot

Your backyard might offer a few possible patio locations, but some will naturally work better than others. This isn’t picking a spot solely because it looks good. You need to consider things like whether the space has shade during hot days.

Hardscaping sometimes involves a little digging throughout the ground. Make sure to think of the pipes you might have underneath the area too.

Privacy is another big factor. And if you want to make your spot safe from the public’s eyes, you’ll need strategic landscaping or fencing can make it feel more secluded.

And don’t forget convenience—keeping your patio close to the house (especially near the kitchen) makes hosting and everyday use much easier.

Choose Materials That Last

Iowa weather can be rough sometimes. You need to build your patio with materials that can endure. Here are some options:

Concrete – Affordable and versatile. Can be stamped or stained for a custom look.
Pavers – A timeless, customizable choice with various colors and patterns.
Natural Stone – Elegant and long-lasting, though on the pricier side.
Brick – Classic and charming but requires a bit more upkeep.

Also, consider how materials feel underfoot. Some surfaces can get hot in the summer or become slippery when wet. If you have kids or pets, safety and comfort should be top priorities.

Make It Comfortable and Functional

A well-designed patio isn’t just about the flooring. It’s important to think about the space. Even if there isn’t plenty of it, you can make any area feel much bigger with the right features.

Seating Options

Built-in benches for a seamless, space-saving look
Weather-resistant outdoor furniture for durability
Swing chairs or hammocks for a relaxed, cozy vibe

Shade and Shelter

Pergolas or awnings to keep the sun in check
Patio umbrellas for easy, flexible shade
Covered areas for all-weather protection

Fire and Water Features

A fire pit or outdoor fireplace to set the mood and provide warmth
A small fountain or pond to create a soothing, peaceful ambiance

Add Greenery for a Natural Touch

No one likes spending time in a concrete jungle. Some planters, flower beds, or climbing vines on a trellis can soften the space. It’s not just easy on the eyes too. This touch of greenery can make the air in the area feel more fresh.

If you’re up to it, you can also plant some herbs and simple veggies in your garden. These are perfect if you’re going to have an outdoor kitchen.

Even if you’re working with a small patio, vertical gardens, and potted plants can bring in color and life without taking up space.

Work with a Pro for the Best Results

Building your dream patio might sound like a good DIY project for the future but if you don’t have the time to do it, you can work with an expert.

Professionals will do everything—from the layout to the materials to the installation. They’re not going to build your patio on their own though. If you want to, they can work with you every step of the way so that you get your dream patio.

Bring Your Patio Vision to Life with Friend Landscaping

Creating the perfect patio takes planning and a lot of work. Not everyone has the time, the knowledge, and the patience to do it. Sometimes, all it takes is a little mistake to completely derail your project.

Friend Landscaping makes the process easy by helping you design and build the perfect outdoor extension of your home. We have years of experience in hardscaping services in Ankeny. We’ll help you build the patio of your dreams.

Let’s turn your backyard into the outdoor space you’ve always wanted. Call 515-201-8023 or email Bill@friendlandscaping.com to get started today!

Friend Landscaping, LLC has been providing exceptional landscaping services to residential and commercial customers throughout the Des Moines area since 2001. Locally owned and operated, Friend Landscaping, LLC can take any lawn and turn it into a work of art.