Your backyard is more than just an outdoor space; it’s an extension of your home and an oasis where you can relax, entertain, and create lasting memories with loved ones. So whether you’re upgrading your existing patio or starting from scratch, effective space planning is crucial to ensure that your outdoor area is functional, inviting, and suits your lifestyle.

Assessing Your Space

Before diving into patio designs and furniture choices, take a step back and evaluate your backyard’s size and shape. Consider the topography, available sunlight, and existing features such as trees, gardens, or structures. This assessment will help you make informed decisions regarding space allocation and layout.

Defining Your Patio’s Purpose

Next, imagine how you’ll be using your patio. Are you looking to create a cozy seating area, a dining space for al fresco meals, or a versatile outdoor living room? Clearly defining the purpose of your outdoor space will guide your space planning decisions and help you choose the right furniture, lighting, and accessories. For an outdoor dining table, make sure there is ample room to pull chairs out… do you want dining for 4, 6, 8 or more? Think about your indoor dining room, how big is that area? An outdoor kitchen usually requires at least 100 square feet to have room for people to move around. A good size for a sitting area would be at least 200 square feet for a couch and chairs.

Creating Zones

To optimize your patio space, consider dividing it into distinct zones based on their functions. For example, designate an area for lounging, another for dining, and a corner for gardening or a kids’ play zone. These zones can be defined using different flooring materials, strategic furniture placement, or landscaping elements like pergolas or planters.

Scale and Proportion

When selecting patio furniture, be mindful of scale and proportion. Choose appropriate pieces for your space, ensuring they don’t overwhelm or appear too small. Oversized furniture in a small patio can make it feel cramped, while tiny furniture in a spacious backyard may seem lost and insignificant. Strike a balance that complements the size of your outdoor living space and allows for comfortable movement.

Adding Covered Space

Adding roof structures like a patio cover to your backyard is a great way to create a relaxing environment year-round. Luckily, TCP Custom Outdoor Living can tailor the structure to your exact specifications and make sure it makes sense within the dimensions of your backyard. A typical patio cover that has room for dining, a kitchen and separate sitting area is at least 500-600 square feet minimum.  If you don’t have the kitchen area, the space will feel comfortable with 300- 400 square feet as long as your furniture is scaled appropriately.

Using Vertical Space

If you have a small backyard, make the most of your vertical space to create a sense of expansiveness. Install hanging planters, trellises, or vertical gardens to add greenery without sacrificing floor space. Additionally, consider wall-mounted or folding furniture options that can be easily stored when not in use.

Lighting and Ambiance

To extend the usability of your patio into the evening hours, incorporate proper lighting. Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. String lights, lanterns, and pathway lighting can add a magical touch to your outdoor space.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Remember that your patio should adapt to your changing needs and seasons. Opt for furniture pieces that are versatile and easily reconfigurable. Consider using outdoor rugs, cushions, and accessories that can be switched out to reflect different styles or accommodate varying weather conditions.

By carefully considering your space and following these space planning tips, you can transform your backyard into a stunning patio that perfectly suits your needs and lifestyle. Remember to strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics while incorporating your style. Whether you’re hosting gatherings or seeking solace in nature, your dream patio awaits, ready to create unforgettable moments for years to come.

As the weather starts to warm up, spending time outdoors becomes more and more appealing. But with the sun beating down on you, it’s difficult to enjoy your outdoor living space without some form of shade. Fortunately, there are several options available for shade structures that can help you make the most of your patio or outdoor living area:

Temporary Fixes

Umbrellas

A popular choice for smaller spaces, umbrellas are portable and can easily be moved to where they are needed most. They come in a variety of sizes, colors, and materials, making it easy to find one that matches your style and needs. However, they’re not always the most practical choice for larger areas and have a tendency to blow over on a windy day if not properly anchored.

Awnings

Another popular option for outdoor living spaces, awnings are typically attached to the side of a house or building and can be extended or retracted as needed. Awnings come in a variety of materials, including canvas, acrylic, and vinyl, and can be customized to match the style of your home. This is a nice choice for providing shade over a larger area and can even be equipped with features like lighting or heating for added comfort. Temporary awnings primarily focus on providing shade and may have limited functionality compared to permanent options. For instance, they may not offer additional features like motorized operation, integrated lighting, or sensors for automatic retraction.

Canopies

Another option for shade structures that are both practical and stylish, canopies can be freestanding or attached to a structure and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Canopies can be made from a variety of materials, including fabric, metal, or wood, and can be customized to match your style and needs. However, temporary canopies may not offer the same level of stability as permanent structures. They often rely on lightweight frames and temporary anchoring methods, which may not be as secure. This can be a concern in windy areas or during storms.

Permanent Structures

Patio Covers

This is a more permanent option for shade structures, as patio covers are typically attached to the home or a standalone structure. They come in a variety of materials, including wood, aluminum, and vinyl, and can be customized to match the style of your home. Patio covers provide ample shade and protection from the elements, making them a great choice for outdoor living spaces that are used frequently. 

Permanent patio covers can also offer more than just shade. They can be designed to accommodate additional features such as integrated lighting, ceiling fans, heating elements, or even outdoor kitchens. This expands the functionality of your patio and allows you to enjoy it throughout different seasons. Working with TCP’s expert team ensures you’re getting a patio cover the exact way you want it, using only the best materials possible.

Ultimately, the choice of shade structure for your outdoor living space will depend on your individual needs and preferences. With the right shade structure in place, you can make the most of your outdoor living space all year round.

Crafted from durable materials, outdoor bars usually feature ample countertop space, built-in sinks for easy clean-up, and convenient storage cabinets for glassware and drinks. These additions can be perfect for entertaining friends and family on warm summer evenings. If you’re considering building an outdoor bar for your patio, here are some benefits to keep in mind.

Made to Entertain

First and foremost, an outdoor bar is a perfect space to entertain guests. It’s an ideal spot to gather with friends and family for a drink, some snacks, and great conversation. You can create an inviting atmosphere by adding some comfortable outdoor seating, lighting, and décor that fits your personal style. Plus, an outdoor bar allows you to keep the party going even after the sun goes down.

Adds Value

Another benefit of an outdoor bar is that it can increase the overall value of your home. Outdoor living spaces have become increasingly popular in recent years, and having a well-designed outdoor living space with an outdoor bar can be a major selling point for potential buyers. The most important value it adds is a great new feature to your backyard and new memories that will last a lifetime.

Made to Fit Your Needs

Outdoor bars are also versatile and can be customized to fit your specific needs. You can choose from a variety of materials and designs, depending on your style and budget. For example, if you’re going for a more rustic look, you can opt for a bar made of wood or stone. On the other hand, if you prefer a modern look, you can choose a sleek metal design. Additionally, you can choose to add features like a built-in sink, a mini-fridge, or a grill to create the perfect outdoor entertaining space.

Enjoy the Outdoors

Lastly, building an outdoor bar can encourage you to spend more time outdoors. Being outside has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing stress and improving mood. With an outdoor bar, you’ll have a designated space to relax and unwind after a long day.

Building an outdoor bar for your patio can enhance your overall outdoor living experience. From entertaining guests to increasing your home’s value, an outdoor bar is a versatile and valuable addition to any patio. So, whether you’re building a new patio or updating your preexisting one, consider adding an outdoor bar to create the perfect outdoor entertaining space.

If you’re looking to build or update your patio’s flooring, there are many materials to choose from. While aesthetics and design are essential, choosing a durable material that can withstand outdoor elements and heavy foot traffic is equally important. Here are four durable building materials for your patio: brick, concrete, natural stone, and pavers.

Brick

Brick is a classic material for many patios. Made of fired clay, brick is known for strength and durability. Bricks come in many colors and styles, from traditional red to modern gray. A brick patio is low-maintenance and can last for decades with proper care. If you’re wanting a great look and an old-world style, you can’t go wrong with brick.

Concrete

Concrete is another popular material for patios. It’s made from a mixture of cement, water, and aggregate and can be molded into various shapes and sizes. Concrete is strong, durable, and withstands heavy foot traffic and outdoor elements. It can be colored before it’s poured, or a stamped pattern can be impressed into it after the original concrete is poured. It can also be stained afterwards or have a variety of other finishes, meaning the possibilities are endless when customizing. 

Natural Stone

Natural stone is a beautiful and durable option for patios. It includes materials such as limestone, slate, and flagstone. Natural stone has a unique and timeless look and can create a natural and organic feel in your outdoor space. It’s also solid and durable, able to withstand outdoor elements and heavy foot traffic. However, natural stone can be more expensive than other options and may require more maintenance to keep it looking its best.

Pavers

Pavers are individual square tiles made from various materials, including concrete, porcelain, brick, and natural stone. They can be laid in many patterns and designs, creating a unique and stylish look for your patio. Pavers are durable and resistant to weather and heavy foot traffic. Because they’re made of individual tiles, they’re also easy to replace if damaged compared to concrete, making them a cost-effective option in the long run. In addition, pavers come in a wide range of colors and styles, so you can choose a design that complements your home and outdoor space.

When choosing a material for your patio’s flooring, consider your budget, lifestyle, and personal style. Brick, concrete, natural stone, and pavers are all durable options that provide a long-lasting, low-maintenance outdoor living space. Whether you’re building a new patio or updating an existing one, these materials will give you the beautiful and functional outdoor space you’re looking for.

When creating the ultimate outdoor oasis, an outdoor bathroom can add a touch of luxury and convenience. Having a bathroom outdoors adds value to your home and provides additional comfort and convenience. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of building an outdoor bathroom and why it could be the perfect addition to your patio.

Convenience

One of the primary benefits of an outdoor bathroom is its convenience. Whether entertaining guests or simply relaxing in your outdoor space, an outdoor bathroom eliminates the need to go back and forth between the indoor bathroom and the patio. This gives you complete freedom to enjoy the outdoors.

Privacy

Another great benefit of an outdoor bathroom is the added privacy it offers. When you’re hosting guests, an outdoor bathroom can provide a level of privacy that you may not have with an indoor bathroom. This added privacy can help your guests feel more comfortable and at ease, making your outdoor space more inviting and enjoyable.

Design Options

When it comes to designing your outdoor bathroom, the options are endless. From sleek and modern to rustic and charming, you can create a design that complements your patio and fits your style. In addition, you can choose from various materials, such as stone, wood, or concrete, to create a look that seamlessly blends in with your outdoor space.

Fitting Your Needs

Not only can an outdoor bathroom fit the design of your backyard, but it can also be designed to fit the needs of your space. If you have a pool, add a non-slip floor and a shower to wash off. If you have pets in your household, you can add a basin to make washing them a breeze. Whatever you use your backyard for, there’s an outdoor addition that can fit your needs best.

Increase Home Value

Adding an outdoor bathroom to your patio can also increase the value of your home. Outdoor living spaces are becoming increasingly popular, and a well-designed outdoor bathroom can be a significant selling point for potential buyers. It adds an extra level of convenience and luxury and shows that you’ve invested in your home and are committed to creating an enjoyable outdoor living space.

An outdoor bathroom is an excellent addition to any backyard. It provides convenience and privacy and adds value to your home. With so many design options, you can create a space tailored to your style and complement your outdoor living space. If you’re considering adding an outdoor bathroom to your patio, work with a professional company to ensure the design and construction are done to the highest standards.

This home had a decent-sized covered area along the back of their home with a low-pitched roof. Our finished product is a vaulted gable roof with an outdoor kitchen. It is now about 600 square feet and looks like it was built originally for the home. 

We extended the patio out to the edge of the deeper side of the home to give the family a much larger area. The new space has three distinct areas – an outdoor kitchen, a sitting area, and a dining area. The outdoor space has two large fans, and gas carriage lights on the columns were installed. 

The dining area has a custom bench that also serves as a firewood holder for the fire pit in the yard, and the flooring is a porcelain tile. The living area is in the center, with a space to cuddle up and enjoy the outdoors. The vaulted ceiling is Woodtone West Coast IPA pre-stained tongue and groove, giving the area a wide-open feel.

The outdoor kitchen outfitted with a black soapstone counter and backsplash behind the grill from Dal-Tile, is situated at the end of the space with close access to the home. The raised bar top allows for extra seating, and the kitchen has a sink, fridge, storage, wine fridge, ice maker, 32” RCS grill, and side burner. A vent hood over the grill was placed to control the amount of smoke while using the grill. All appliances are from Cunningham Gas. The columns and kitchen fascia are painted brick to match the home. 

This backyard was transformed into a beautiful space for hanging out year-round.

Looking to make the most of your backyard but don’t have much space around your pool? There are plenty of ways to make the most of your pool area. Here’s a few tips for maximizing your outdoor living space:

Shape your pool

If you’re building a new pool for fun in the sun, consider the shape carefully as the size of your backyard will likely be the biggest factor in what type of pool you choose. Freeform or kidney-shaped pools can provide a more natural, organic look, but often come at a cost of taking up more space. Rectangular or square pools can be installed on almost any sized property. A spool, or a combination spa/pool can also create a relaxing area for guests to enjoy the summer and maximize the space around the pool.

Use vertical space

If you’re working with limited space, use vertical space to your advantage. Install a fence or privacy wall around the pool area or create a vertical garden to make a natural privacy screen. This not only provides space and privacy but adds a beautiful visual element to your pool area. Check out our previous blog on privacy walls and vertical gardens.

Choose the best furniture

When you’re adding furniture to your pool area, choose pieces that are equal parts functional and stylish. This could mean selecting compact pieces that can be easily moved or folding chairs that can be stored when they’re not being used. Additionally, adding built-in seating around the pool area is a great way to maximize space while providing seating for guests.

Add lighting to set it aglow

Outdoor lighting can create a beautiful ambiance in your pool area. Add string lights, lanterns, or other outdoor lighting fixtures to the space to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests and extend the use of your pool area well into the evening.

With a little planning and creativity, you can create a pool area that is both beautiful and practical for your needs.

If you’re looking to add a functional and beautiful element to your outdoor backyard, vertical gardens are a great way to add more green to your space. Here’s a few reasons why a vertical garden might be right for you:

Saves space

One of the biggest advantages of a vertical garden is that it saves space. A vertical garden allows you to maximize your outdoor living space while still enjoying the beauty and benefits of a garden. You can easily grow herbs, vegetables, and flowers in a compact area. Nothing wows guests to your outdoor kitchen more than cooking with ingredients grown only a few steps away.

Adds a unique aesthetic

A vertical garden is a unique addition to any patio. With a wide range of plant and flower options, vertical gardens can add texture, color, and life to an otherwise dull space. Make a garden that matches your own style and taste.

Creates a sense of privacy

Vertical gardens can also create a natural barrier between you and your neighbors, providing privacy from noisy neighbors. You can use tall plants or climbing vines to create a living wall that offers seclusion while still allowing air and light to flow through. For more info on privacy walls, check out our blog.

Easy to maintain

A vertical garden is relatively easy to maintain, especially when compared to traditional gardens—no need to worry about weeding or bending down to tend to your plants. Instead, you can water them with a hose or watering can and trim them as needed. With easy maintenance, all you have to do is enjoy the fruits of your labor in your perfect garden.

A vertical garden is a beautiful addition to any patio. It provides a space-saving, aesthetically pleasing, and environmentally friendly way to grow plants. With a little planning and maintenance, you can enjoy the benefits of a wonderful garden right in your own backyard.

There’s never a bad time to prepare your patio for outdoor fun and entertainment. Whether you’re cleaning after a long winter or just sprucing things up, here are a few tips to keep your patio looking pristine:

Start Sweeping

The first step in cleaning your patio is removing accumulated outdoor remnants over the months. Use a broom or leaf blower to sweep away leaves, twigs, and other debris. This gives you a clear surface to work on.

Wash With a Pressure Washer

A pressure washer is an effective tool for cleaning patios and cedar fences. It can remove dirt, grime, and stains from concrete, pavers, and other surfaces. Start by rinsing the patio with water, then use the pressure washer to clean the surface. However, if you have to spray your deck, make sure to use a low-pressure setting, or it will chip away the paint used to color the surface.

Use a Cleaning Solution

For stubborn stains, a cleaning solution can help break down the dirt and grime. Many patio cleaning solutions are available on the market, like Scott’s Outdoor Patio & Deck Cleaner. Check out our blog for more options on cleaning your patio

Prune Those Plants

Now that spring has sprung and the weeds are starting to grow like, well, weeds, it’s time to get your garden back in tip-top shape. Pull out those weeds and remove any dead plants that sadly didn’t make it through the winter. For more tips on gardening, check out our blog.

Cleaning Your Outdoor Kitchen

For outdoor kitchen surfaces like stone countertops, a mix of dish soap and water will do the trick, just make sure your cleaning concoction isn’t acidic since acid will stain and damage your stone. Stainless steel countertops can also be washed with dish soap and water, just make sure to dry the water off since permanent water spots can form if left untreated.

Keep Your Grill Clean

Grills can be a bit tricky to clean since many soaps or detergents can affect the taste of your food. However, many grilling brands like Traeger and Weber have their own branded cleaners that are sure to keep your grill in tip-top shape. With some cleaner and a wire brush, you’ll be ready to go for grilling season.

Tidying Up Ceiling Fans

Besides keeping you cool on summer days, ceiling fans are really great at collecting dust and dirt. Luckily, there are plenty of microfiber dusters with extended handles, meaning you won’t have to break out the ladder. Just make sure to move your furniture out of the way so no dust bunnies land on them, and just a quick reminder, please turn your fan off before cleaning.

By following these tips, you can get your patio looking great in no time. If you’re considering upgrading your outdoor living space or building one from scratch, contact TCP Custom Outdoor Living for a consultation. We can help you design a great outdoor space and provide professional installation services.

This home had a worn-out pergola that didn’t provide any shade. The family wanted to have a nicer space to hang out while using the pool, as well as protection from bugs and mosquitoes. 

The new screened-in patio is about 430 SF with a gabled roof and a vaulted ceiling. The knee walls are brick and painted to match the home, and we used Hardie trim to finish the screened area. We built an 8’ kitchen that’s the perfect size for prepping and serving. The silver-gray counter is from Instyle Granite and Marble. All of the appliances are from Cunningham Gas, including a 38” grill, vent hood, storage, and an outdoor fridge. The kitchen is faced with painted brick, and the flooring is concrete. 

The fireplace at the end of the screened porch is a 42” gas insert with a herringbone pattern from Perfection Fireplace. It is faced with painted brick and has a raised hearth. The ceiling is Woodtone Real Soffit pre-stained tongue and groove in West Coast IPA. 

This screened porch gives the family the needed room and ability to enjoy their backyard. Picture yourself wrapped up in a blanket with a glass of wine in front of the fire while a steak is grilling. Pure perfection.