The easiest way to extend your living space, blurring the boundaries between house and garden is to build a patio.

Always keep your objectives in mind

When you stay focused on exactly why you’ve given yourself the green light on your project, you’ll be able to stay on track and keep a tighter rein on your budget. It sometimes helps to put together a basic drawing of what you’re hoping to create so you can share your vision with your landscaper.

Choosing materials

What materials you use underfoot play an important part in not only the cost of your patio but also in how you use it. It is important to get the right shape and size. It needs to be in proportion not only with your house but also with your garden. The right design can make the area appear either larger and spacious or smaller and more intimate.

When planning your patio, are you opting for porcelain, natural stone or concrete? Each material will help create a completely different look, so research the advantages they each have and decide which suits your home and lifestyle best. We've put a handy guide here to help you work out which one will work best for you.

If you were thinking of timber decking, why not opt for Bradstone’s Madera Antigua paving which looks sleeker and doesn’t come with the required maintenance of wood.

We always recommend ordering a sample or going to one of our stockists displays before ordering your paving but our handy Pave my Space visualiser will help you bring your vision to life!

Patio positioning and privacy

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to creating the perfect patio. Careful consideration needs to be given to make use of the space.

Will it be a family area, somewhere for entertaining, a quiet private area or somewhere to display a sculpture or beautiful containers spilling over with annual colour?
Take into account proximity of neighbours, the possible view and how it will fit within the contours of existing planting.
Sunlight is an important factor too. Ensure that you are not blinded by the sun! Think about where the sun is at different times of the day in your garden and whether there’s any view you want to be able to enjoy. Trellis or tall landscaped plants can be used to provide some shade. If you are going to use lighting (for those balmy summer evenings) ensure that there is an outdoor power supply adjacent.
Check whether the furniture you want fits in the area with plenty of room to walk around don’t be afraid to use canes and string to mark in out before committing yourself.

Don’t forget the technical bits

It’s easy to get carried away with the aesthetics of the garden, however if you are installing a patio yourself, take some time to consider access to your property, trees and drainage. The advantages of using a Bradstone Assured Landscaper is they will ensure all groundwork and building regulations are covered.