Add On Features
Just adding the patio itself is a great way to expand your living space into the great outdoors! Setting up a nice dining set or a conversation set will give you a place to relax and enjoy your surroundings. If you want to kick it up a notch, the following features could enhance your experience.
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Seat Walls
Curved or straight, a seat wall made of retaining wall block and complimentary caps can be a great addition, especially around a fire pit. No chairs to cover and no cushions to keep dry!
Pillars
Pillars can go hand in hand with seat walls, usually flanking the ends of the wall as a nice finishing touch. They can work as a table to hold your drink or a place to house additional lighting.
fire features
Fireplaces and firepits can bring a cozy atmosphere to your patio. They can take your patio from a place to enjoy in the summer to a three- or four-season retreat. The crackling of wood burning can enhance the ambiance, but a gas option can really give off some serious heat.
lighting
Pillar lights and under cap lighting can help you remain outdoors well into the evening hours. Lighting options are also great for added security, illuminating what might otherwise be a dark backyard.
pergolas and pavillions
A pergola can bring that room-like feeling without completely shutting out the sun. Or if you want a way to enjoy your patio rain or shine, a pavilion might be a better option. For larger patios, a pergola or pavilion can help to divide the space into different zones. For smaller patios, the entire surface can be sheltered for a cohesive, well-defined space.
Outdoor kitchen
Cooking outside gives you the benefit of using a grill or smoker for healthier food options while keeping the food smells out of the house. Enjoy many of the same amenities as your indoor kitchen while taking in the fresh air. Whether it’s your next family meal or a gathering of friends, feel like you’re treating yourself to a special meal without ever leaving home.
Do these features have to be installed with the patio?
Depending on the layout of the patio and the property it makes more sense to include some of these features at the same time as the patio. Even if access is not a challenge, many times there is a cost savings to add the feature during patio construction rather than later on. Otherwise, these additional features can be added on in the future.