As the days grow cooler and the nights crisp, you might find yourself thinking about adding a patio to your outdoor space. Whether you have a sprawling lawn or just a small area outside your back door, now is the perfect time to consider creating an outdoor “room” where you can enjoy the beauty of every season.
“A patio can be your personal retreat,” says Eric VanGrinsven, a landscape designer with the Gardens of Babylon design team. Our designers excel at crafting unique patio spaces that seamlessly integrate with your overall landscape design. Today’s patio trends range from cozy, intimate corners to expansive outdoor living rooms and kitchens that are perfect for entertaining.
Surface Matters: The Foundation of Your Patio
The foundation of any great patio starts with the surface. “Many of my clients are looking for patios that are both clean and easy to maintain,” says landscape designer Max Finkbeiner. “Natural stone or clay pavers are popular for their timeless appeal, but we also see a demand for simple, sharp, and elegant concrete options that offer a cost-effective solution.”
Stamped and dyed concrete, often in natural stone patterns or herringbone designs, is another popular choice. It’s easier to clean and maintain, with a lower upfront cost, making it an attractive option for many homeowners.
Flagstone patios continue to be a favorite for those who love a more organic look. “I find that clients are increasingly drawn to natural stone slab patios with gravel joints,” notes landscape designer Ryan Fogarty. “These joints are wider and irregular, offering a permeable surface that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.”
Warming Trend: Extending Outdoor Use into Cooler Months
As the weather cools, patios designed for year-round use become even more appealing. Many clients want a patio that’s versatile – great for summer barbecues and games, but also perfect for gathering around a fire pit in the cooler months.
The challenges of recent years have made fire pits a must-have feature for outdoor spaces. Fogarty has noticed a significant increase in requests for built-in wood-burning or gas fire pits. “Whether it’s a rustic stone design or a sleek modern setup, fire pits with seating walls create a cozy outdoor environment,” she explains. Gas-fired options offer the convenience of a fire at the flip of a switch, without the hassle of wood.
More recently, flexibility has become key in patio design. “Portable fire pits, like Solo Stoves, are increasingly popular,” Fogarty adds. “Clients appreciate the ability to move the fire pit, allowing their patio to serve multiple functions depending on the season.”
Dining with Friends: Outdoor Kitchens for Every Space
No patio is complete without a space for dining. Even if your patio is small, a simple setup with a grill, table, and chairs can transform your outdoor area into a delightful dining spot. If you have more space and a larger budget, the possibilities are endless. Think outdoor refrigerators, sinks, fireplaces, and even pizza ovens.
For larger outdoor kitchens, our designers emphasize the importance of counter space. You can never have too much counter space and it often becomes the gathering spot for guests. Adding shelter, like a pergola or covered porch, can also enhance your patio’s functionality. “My clients tend to prefer simple, modern pergola designs,” Finkbeiner notes, which offer both shade and style.
Plan Your Patio with Gardens of Babylon
As you plan your perfect patio, remember that it’s more than just an addition to your landscape—it’s an extension of your home. Whether you’re envisioning a small, peaceful retreat or an expansive outdoor entertaining space, our Gardens of Babylon landscape design team is here to help bring your vision to life. Book a consultation with one of our professionals today and start enjoying your outdoor space in every season.
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