Build a patio at your dacha projects. Patio design or garden season is open! Decor ideas

Build a patio and your summer will be guaranteed with cool afternoons, dinner on fresh air, a balmy evening with children chasing fireflies while adults relax and watch the action. How to make a patio at your dacha? The perfect patio is visible from the windows of the house and attracts your attention. The most convenient access to the patio is from the room or kitchen.

A cozy, beautiful patio at the dacha is a quite secluded and comfortable place, especially if it is furnished with practical furniture. Here you can relax in the fresh air and receive guests. This is a place for entertainment and gathering of companies of similar interests.

To build a patio, choose a plot of land that dries quickly after rain, although an area lined with bricks and flooded with water mirror effect attracts attention and pleases the eye. It is very important that the patio surface is reliable and safe, not slippery, with a comfortable footing. Paths are usually made of soft material, but a solid, hard surface is more comfortable for a pedestrian. Decorating a patio at the dacha photo:

An immaculate patio is the focal point of your home and garden. There are rare bushes and flowers around it, ornamental grasses. From here you can follow the fluttering of butterflies on the marigolds, see the dew, and observe the first signs of nature's withering.

How to make a patio at the dacha - working on the patio will not be a burdensome task for you: it is easy to keep order here, remove any dirt, soil, debris and splinters of anything, that is, any garbage. Children here can play in complete safety and cleanliness, having noisy games. And you watch them without leaving your home.

The patio combines the beauty of the garden and the comfort of the home. Flowering plants, bird noise in the tree branches, a small pond attract attention and evoke positive emotions. This is natural in such a beautiful holiday destination with its magnificent landscape. Patio at the dacha photo:

How to make a patio at your dacha with your own hands

1. Use a post, string and powder chalk to outline the patio. The cord should be located 7-8 cm outside the contour of the slabs so that the forms with the slabs fit freely. Use a garden hose to create curved lines between the posts. After removing the turf with an excavator, compact the soil well, then soak it with any substance approved for use that sterilizes the soil from weeds.

2. Install an asphalt barrier (strip or blocks) wherever the patio borders the home's foundation, wall or other structures. Over time, depending on climatic conditions, the joints in the patio cover at the dacha expand or contract.

3. Strengthen the ropes and fix the existing slope. The construction of forms begins with driving stakes to their top, which should be at the same horizontal level. This is how the upper surface of the molds is planned. Hammer the stakes every 1-1.5 m. If desired, the stakes can be driven higher. Then secure the horizontal shape with boards along the top of the driven stakes. Country house patio ideas:

4. The stakes serve as indicators, hold and adjust the level. Use nails to knock down stakes from boards. The nails are driven through the stakes. In this case, the cords remain at the top throughout the entire operation. Check the levelness of the molds and boards several times.

5. Make a bed for concrete by scattering gravel, crushed stone or crushed stones. The thickness of the bed layer depends on the quality of soil drainage. If the drainage is good, then the layer thickness is usually 2-5 cm. With poor drainage, the bed layer is larger.

6. To strengthen the bed, lay out the steel mesh and then level it. Sliding rocks or other material lift the mesh, so support it from above. Place a thin board or slab in the middle of the grid. Tread on them and try to get the net to settle. Collect everything that is above the mesh with a rake. Decorating a patio at the dacha photo:

7. Pour the concrete. Use a straight, fairly long beam touching the two edges of the form to level the surface of the concrete as soon as its layer reaches 7-10 cm. Mastic or mineral additives of various colors can be used on top of the concrete. The stove will cost more, but it will be more elegant.

8. After pouring the concrete, use a small board as a float to level it. Stop ironing when water appears on the surface of the plate.

9. After the water has evaporated from the surface, start working from the edge of the slab. Using a flat tool with a slight angle at the front, run along the edge. When moving, the front of the tool should be slightly raised. If the movement is backwards, then lift the rear edge. Repeat the process several times. Country house patio ideas:

10. Monitor the joints of the slabs. For a patio with a width of about 3 m, the joint of the slabs should have a depth of no more than 1/4 of the thickness of the slab. Use the board to control.

11. Completely sand the surface. Go over the wood grout twice, sliding over the rough surface. For final smoothing, make three passes. It is not advisable to use a metal tool.

12. After obtaining the desired surface, the slab is covered with a wide sheet of polyethylene so that it remains wet longer. This slows down the hardening process, allows the concrete to compact better, and improves quality. After a week, remove the film and wooden form, starting from the edge of the patio. Beautiful patio at the dacha:

Making a support for an umbrella over a patio

1. If there is a need to hide from the sun's rays, then the easiest way is to install an umbrella. To do this, dig a hole for support several centimeters deep. Lower the anchor and fill it with concrete for strength. Its purpose is to hold the umbrella stand.
2. After the concrete has hardened, when the support becomes rigid and the position of the anchor is strengthened, attach the umbrella stand. See the patio at the dacha photo:

Choosing an original concrete surface

1. The texture of a waterfall on a monotonous concrete surface is created by a certain decisive movement of a wooden or metal tool along its surface. A rough tool will leave a rough surface.

2. How to make a patio at your dacha? You can create a design by pressing a brush against the surface of a wet concrete slab, leaving an impression. The depth of the texture depends on the stiffness of the brush and the strength of the concrete.

3. A beautiful patio at the dacha can have a checkered pattern consisting of identical squares and emphasized joints. Each section is marked with an alternative mutually perpendicular direction

4. Using a metal tool, you can carve geometric shapes or figures similar to stone slabs on concrete. The concrete pattern is applied shortly after it is poured.

5. Use a nylon bristle brush to create a fine textured surface with intersecting curved lines.

6. To create a corrugated texture on the concrete surface, use rough instrument. White spots are created by splashing a mixture of white concrete and sand in a 1:2 ratio onto a soft lime mortar. After securing lime mortar the surface is polished. Decorating a patio at the dacha photo:

Evgeniy Sedov

When your hands grow from the right place, life is more fun :)

Content

Even if you own a small country house or summer house, you may not know what a patio is. This is a fenced area patio, intended for relaxation, celebrations, and receiving guests. Each homeowner chooses the design of such a site according to his own taste and desire, creating all the conditions for leisure in the lap of nature. Thanks to some architectural ideas, you can bring to life the most bold ideas and make such a place comfortable for each of the residents.

Patio

Previously, the courtyard was decorated with flower beds and did not serve any specific functions. Now the space has begun to be used by residents for a comfortable time in nature and fresh air, especially in the warm season. Back in Ancient Rome, they began to create a patio area in the homes of wealthy aristocrats, and today anyone can make such an area at home from scrap materials.

What does a patio look like?

A photo of a patio will help you understand what such a recreation area looks like - an area adjacent to the house or located at a distance from it, enclosed by a fence, gate, or hedge. Part of it can be used for household needs, but its main purpose is recreation. The zone includes all the main elements or has some of them:

• swimming pool, fountain;
• lawns, flower beds;
• recreation area;
• dining area.

Description

Translated from Spanish, patio is the inner courtyard of a house without a roof. Such space may include playgrounds, summer dining rooms, reception areas sunbathing and other elements. The presence of a paved area and paths is mandatory. The relaxation area assumes the presence of garden furniture, sun loungers, which are optionally decorated with soft pillows, textiles, and blankets.

An important and integral part of this zone is green spaces: ordinary flower beds, shrubs, fruit trees, exotic plants, which will become a decoration of the landscape. Depending on the chosen design style, there may be garden sculptures, other decorative elements. Almost always the recreation area is supplemented garden lanterns, which not only illuminate the patio at night, but create a calm, relaxing atmosphere.

Purpose

The main purpose of the zone is as an alternative to the living room. In the warm season, it is more convenient to receive friends and relatives in the fresh air than in a hot house. Features of a relaxation place by which it can be immediately identified are a place for relaxation, communication, green and dining areas. At the same time, each owner arranges such a site in his own way: some put up a barbecue, barbecue or build an outdoor oven, and if there is work surface and the sink area can be used as a summer kitchen.

Loungers with pillows, artificial ponds, fountains create a comfortable atmosphere for reading books, sunbathing in good weather. In the evening, the area is perfect for communicating with family and friends. If the site area is available, you can build a swimming pool and take water procedures, play water games or have foam parties.

How to do

If you bought a house with a patio, try creating a seating area yourself. What is a patio and how to make it:

• Before you start, you need to draw up a plan, a project, calculate possible costs, prepare the territory, level the ground.
• The next stage is the construction of the site itself. First, a cushion is made of sand, any selected material is laid out on it: tile, stone, brick, wood, marble chips etc. Color range choose based on the general exterior of the territory.
• Next, decorate the area according to your taste and desire.

In the country

Equipping a patio at your dacha with your own hands is not so difficult. It is important to decide for whom the area being developed is intended; its size and functionality will depend on this:

1. For two, a small corner adjacent to the house with a canopy from rain and direct sunlight is enough. It is better to choose a place at a distance from deciduous trees, otherwise you will have to frequently clear the area of ​​debris. It's good if country house There will be a door designed to exit into the area: this way you can bring in furniture and dishes at any time.
2. Enough for an elderly couple cozy armchairs or sun loungers where you can relax, sleep during the day, and in addition install beautiful flowerpots with flowers, lay out blankets and pillows.
3. For young people, a romantic setting and a place to receive guests are important, so the area should be larger. For parties and celebrations you will need: grill, barbecue, outdoor fireplace, bathhouse, dance floor. An important element is artificial lighting for gatherings in dark time days.
4. For couples with children, a designated place for playing outside, a sandbox with a canopy, and a swing are required.

In the garden

For a do-it-yourself patio in the garden, an area surrounded by a fence is suitable, and to hide it from neighbors' eyes Climbing plants will help. Plant them near fences - this solution will not only serve as a hedge, but will create additional comfort. This location requires distance from buildings, so there is a need to create paved paths. It is important to take care of a canopy over the area, which will protect vacationers from the sun, rain and foliage.

The garden is already partially landscaped, so it is only necessary to supplement the area with flower pots and tall shrubs, which will not only decorate and fence the area, but will protect vacationers from the wind. Nearby you can plant a flower bed, an alpine slide, or an artificial pond. Wicker furniture is perfect for the patio area good quality, perfectly complementing the garden interior.

In a country house

Most country cottages are a place of residence and a summer cottage at the same time, so the zone in the house is almost always present and is its continuation - the veranda. If the area is large, you can allocate a recreation area a little larger than required by the standards (3.5 sq.m. per person). Then it is appropriate to divide the area into two parts - open and with a canopy. In one you can sunbathe during the day, install a barbecue and grill kebabs, the other can be glazed, providing protection from the sun, rain - even cushioned furniture it will be protected.

An excellent solution is a decorative fence separating two zones. It can be in the form of a hedge, glass or wattle fence. An important point is the installation of lighting. Fixtures, lamps, as well as furniture, must be chosen in the same style with the general concept of the patio area. Give preference to unpretentious plants so as not to spend the whole summer caring for them. If you have the finances, you can install a small illuminated fountain nearby, which will please the eye even in the dark.

Patio decoration

Exist different styles patios that can satisfy any sophisticated taste. It is better when the recreation area and the house itself are designed in the same concept, but it is quite acceptable to combine different design solutions and creative ideas in one area. It is necessary to choose a style before building and arranging the territory so that all decorative elements are combined with each other.

Mediterranean style

Patios are becoming increasingly popular Mediterranean style, which includes the characteristic features of different countries, but its main distinguishing feature is bright colors. Another prerequisite is a closed space, the presence of fences around the relaxation area; you can use existing ones or create new ones. An important element of style is heat-loving plants. These include palm, olive, cypress, thuja, lavender, rosemary. To add a Mediterranean flavor, use stone, wood, ceramics, and Greek figurines in the interior.

Loft style

Try creating a loft style for your patio. His distinctive features: metal constructions in black, dark shades in the design of window frames, doors, decorative or real brick, metal furniture and nothing extra. A prerequisite is the latest fashion furnishings. Figurines and other decorative elements should also be metal and be present in a minimum quantity.

Spanish patios

Decorating a patio in a Spanish style is not so difficult. His important element, as in Italian estates, is a stone floor, but such finishing of a large area of ​​the patio area can be expensive. Try laying the base of the patio with slabs stylized as stone. Frame the area with a grass lawn, and sunny side decorate your patio with a living fence that will provide shade and additional decor.

Provence style

To decorate a patio in Provence style, you need to use stones that imitate antiquity, which can be present in the design of the floor, walls or fireplace. For landscaping, choose lavender, rosemary, olive, cypress. An exclusive decorative element will include a swimming pool, a fountain, a stone well, clay pots and flowerpots. The paths should be narrow, lined with wild stones.

How to arrange a patio design

Each owner chooses for himself how to improve the patio in front of the house. Depending on the main style of the estate, taste preferences and your financial resources, you can design any recreation area. Thanks to modern design solutions, it is quite possible to choose furniture and decorative elements yourself, without the help of a specialist, saving additional money.

Furniture

Choose patio furniture not only by price, but also by quality. Plastic tables and chairs, for example, are inexpensive, but will not last long. An economical option would be wicker garden furniture, which will serve as a continuation of the color of nature, is more durable and convenient to use. If you have the finances, pay attention to wooden crafts. Their appearance, quality and environmentally friendly material will delight you for many years. Don’t chase branded models, choose a local manufacturer, the quality will be the same, but the price will be lower.

What to plant

Try to choose plants for your patio according to climatic conditions and requirements for their care. You don’t want to spend half your vacation weeding and watering flower beds, do you? An excellent choice would be geranium, hostas, balsam: such flowers are unpretentious and grow well in the sun and shade. Thanks to the many shades, you can create various compositions from them. Plant flowers not in the ground, but in flowerpots or pots, rearrange them, so you can constantly change the design of your patio area.

For aroma, place flowerpots with lemon and tangerine trees next to the veranda. Lavender, rosemary, and conifers will dilute this composition. With the arrival of cold weather, you can easily bring the flowerpots indoors, so the plants will not be damaged, and choose annual crops for planting in the ground. Climbing flowers will help decorate the walls and fences around the area: lobelias, hanging petunias, begonias.

Decor

When thinking about how to decorate your patio, consider your finances and the overall style of your home. Flower arrangements and alpine slides are sometimes quite enough. If you want to add some zest to your patio, make a small fountain, an outdoor fireplace, place a tub of water lilies, and purchase statues of different sizes. Will serve as a separate decor street lights, which can be located not only near the paths, but hang above the zone itself. Textiles will add coziness and comfort to your patio.

Beautiful terraces and patios – photos

Video

The dacha has long ceased to be associated with a place for growing crops for home preparation. From a modern point of view, a country house is seen as a place of rest, which does not exclude the presence of garden beds and the hassle associated with them. The approach to plot design has also changed. Today is one of the best ways landscaping - creating a patio at the dacha with your own hands.

What is a patio

A patio is a small, comfortably decorated space, protected from the wind and prying eyes. This may be a site adjacent to a residential building, or located not far from it. Due to its proximity to the house, this area can rightfully be called a “patio”.

A mandatory attribute of a patio is a paved area. The effect of comfort and charm is given to it by the nearby buildings and green spaces. This kind of fencing evokes a feeling of protection from uninvited guests and wind.

A cozy corner for relaxing in the fresh air, protected from the winds and views of other people - this is the dream of many city residents

Which style to choose for decorating your patio

Those who decide to arrange a patio at their dacha themselves need to understand that this territory is an integral element landscape design. It is not enough to pave the area with paving slabs and install on it all the attributes of a recreation area: a table, armchairs, barbecue, fireplace or barbecue.

It is necessary to choose a design style that harmoniously combines with the elements of the surrounding space. In this case, the recreation area will be spectacular and cozy. Examples of patio design from the best designers will help you choose a style solution.

Classical

The classic patio style takes into account all the necessary details and looks discreet and elegant

IN classic design All traditional attributes of the recreation area are taken into account:

• connection to the rear wall of the house;
• abundance of flowers and greenery;
• the presence of sun protection in the form of a canopy;
• paved area;
• a low fence zoning the territory.

English

A composition with massive furniture, drowning in greenery, looks beautiful, elegant and very natural

The English style requires conciseness. It is characterized by strict straight lines, harmoniously combined with regular round, oval and semi-oval shapes.

Mediterranean

The abundance of light stone and flowerpots is ideal for southern latitudes

This is the most suitable style for a patio located next to a pool or pond. Mandatory landscape elements are arches, natural materials, large flowerpots or flower pots.

Loft

This style will certainly be of interest to young people

A loft-style patio is characterized by a combination of simplicity of furnishings with elements modern interior: fireplaces, artificial waterfalls, panels.

Choosing a place for a patio in a summer cottage

The most important question that needs to be resolved is initial stage- the right choice of location. It disappears by itself if the installation of a patio was planned at the design stage of a residential building. In such cases, a door is always provided to exit to the patio.

The choice of location in an existing building depends on many factors, the main one of which is what goal the owner is pursuing: whether the patio will be a place for receiving guests or just for family relaxation, whether a grill or barbecue is planned. If you intend to use the patio on a regular basis, it is better to find a site away from the residential building. In this case, noise and smells will not disturb children and those who did not join the company of vacationers.

The most important criterion for choosing a location for a patio is protection from prying eyes. The site should not be visible from the street or neighbors.

Significant convenience will be created by locating the patio near the kitchen. In this case, it will be easier for the hostess to set the table. The defining moment may be the presence of a fountain, pool or pond. Relaxing by the water always carries a note of peace and is particularly charming.

Relaxing by the water, which such a patio allows, is more restorative than just being surrounded by greenery.

Patio projects

Patio design highlights:

• site size;
• form;
• fencing elements;
• choice of materials.

Size

The size of the patio must be compared with the area of ​​the site. A small recreation area on an impressive territory looks unpresentable, and no matter how impressively decorated it will be lost against the background of the landscape. And vice versa: a large paved area in small garden will unnecessarily attract attention and look bulky. Optimal patio sizes:

• for recreation of 1–2 people - 3–3.5 m2;
• for 3–4 - 4–5 m2;
• for receiving a small group of guests - 8–12 m2.

Form

The choice of patio shape is limited only by the imagination of the site owner. Square and rectangular are considered traditional and most convenient, but this does not exclude the possibility of designing an oval, round or trapezoidal seating area.

It is important to avoid excessive extension in one direction or another. The furniture should not be placed in a line, but should form a cozy and rather cramped corner.

Fencing elements

Protective and decorative functions can be performed by trees and shrubs, low fences, and the wall of a house. Green spaces should not be too close, optimal distance from the paved oasis - 1.5–2.5 m. This location gives a feeling of spaciousness and presence in a forest clearing.

Selection of materials

For constructing a site on the ground, the best choice would be:

• paving slabs;
• natural stone;
• concrete slabs and blocks;
• terrace board;
• porcelain stoneware

Wooden patios built from moisture-proof wood - specially treated boards and beams, called “deck” - look great. The most moisture-resistant of them is larch. The wood can be tinted in any color that best suits the chosen design of the recreation area.

The tree goes well with the surrounding greenery and an umbrella over the table, and this option for a patio fits harmoniously into the surrounding landscape

A stone patio looks solid and solid - such a building requires almost no maintenance, is practical and durable. The ability of a stone to accumulate and long time give off heat, provides a comfortable temperature on cool summer evenings.

The inclusion of a hearth in such a monolithic composition is very functional: it can be used as a barbecue, and the heat from the fire will warm the stone seats

Porcelain tile platforms are the best choice for patios in modern style, which is characterized by a combination of strict forms with decorative elements that create coziness. Most often these are curtains, flowerpots, fireplaces. It will look great on such platforms wicker furniture.

In the corner of the site, if space allows, you can also place a children's sandbox so that the kids don't get bored during the adults' holidays

You can develop a patio project yourself or seek help from specialists.

Detailed drawing of all layers of the site foundation - the basis for planning work

In the first case, any design you like is taken as a basis and adjustments are made in accordance with the situation on the site and financial capabilities.

Such sketches allow you to imagine in advance the appearance of the finished patio.

How to make a patio at your dacha with your own hands

DIY patio construction is a long and labor-intensive process that involves a large amount of work. It is important to plan the stages of their implementation in advance so as not to miss the seemingly insignificant, but in fact, important details. In this regard, it is recommended to focus on the proposed step-by-step instructions.

Selection of materials and tools

To create a patio, moisture-resistant materials are required. No matter how beautiful the decorative elements and figures made of plaster are, you should not install them even under a canopy. To date, no durable coating has been found that protects this material from moisture. The gypsum will absorb it from the air and gradually collapse.

When purchasing paving stones or porcelain tiles, you need to ask the supplier about their moisture resistance class. The best choice would be polymer concrete, polymer sand tiles, a natural stone. Porcelain tiles must have moisture resistance classes “A” and abrasion resistance classes not lower than PEI IV.

You will need materials such as:

• cement grade not lower than M400;
• sand;
• gravel or crushed stone of small or medium fraction;
• selected material for the construction of the site;
• polycarbonate for canopy.

To complete the work you will also need the following tools:

• tape measure, pegs, rope - for marking the area;
• laser and bubble levels;
• shovels;
• soil compaction device or vibrating plate;
• container for preparing cement-sand mortar;
• construction mixer;
• drill;
• screwdriver;
• wood hacksaw;
• mallet.

Scheme

Before starting work, draw up a diagram of the location of the patio on the site, indicating the location of columns, supports, canopy or roof. It is also necessary to note the geometric parameters of each structural element.

This improvised project is the main “document” that is consulted during construction. When developing your own scheme, you can focus on those implemented by other owners of summer cottages.

Step by step construction instructions

When constructing a recreation area, technologies are used that correspond to the selected materials. Complex preparatory work each case also has its own characteristics.

From stone

This is the strongest and most durable type of patio, but its arrangement is the most labor-intensive

The most labor-intensive process is setting up the site. From the very beginning you need to understand that there are no trifles in this matter. The effectiveness and durability of the completed object depend on how well all stages of work were completed, including preparatory ones.

1. Site marking. Find the corner points of the site, drive in pegs, and stretch a thin rope between them. To perform this task it is advisable to use laser level, which will accurately show all verticals and horizontals. A useful tool There will also be a rangefinder showing exact distances.
2. Formation of a pit. The soil is removed within the area marked at the previous stage. They go 15–20 cm deep into the ground. Level the bottom and walls of the pit evenly. The soil is removed using garden wheelbarrow or a stretcher.
3. Soil compaction. Compact all surfaces of the pit using a vibrating plate. If this tool is not available, use a piece of timber with a strong board nailed to it.
4. Backfilling of a shock-absorbing “cushion”. Sand is poured into an even layer onto the leveled and compacted bottom of the pit, which should not contain large stones. Water with water from a hose, level with a shovel, and compact with a vibrating plate or device. Minimum thickness sand layer - 5 cm. Optimal - 7–10 cm. The choice is guided by the average thickness of the stones with which the patio area will be laid.
5. Gravel backfill. Gravel or crushed stone is poured in an even layer and the stones are compacted.

Further actions depend on what stone is chosen for cladding the patio.

Method No. 1

If the stones are flat and even, you can use paving stone technology.

1. Another sand layer 2–3 cm thick is formed on top of the gravel layer.
2. Stones are placed on it, leaving a distance of 5–8 mm between them.
3. The height of the platform is leveled by hitting it on top with a wooden or rubber mallet.

Method No. 2

If the stone used to construct the site is uneven, acute-angled and irregular shape, concreting is required. Otherwise, it will become loose in the sand and cause inconvenience.

1. The gravel layer is watered with cement laitance, prepared at the rate of: 3 parts Portland cement M400, 1 part water. The solution is mixed using a drill and construction mixer. Further work is carried out after hardening: after 24 hours.
2. Prepare a solution for concreting. Composition: 1 part cement, 3 parts sand, add water to achieve the consistency of thick sour cream. To make it easier to lay the stone, a plasticizer is added. You can use special additives in concrete, or replace them with inexpensive washing powder.
3. Lay the stone on the mortar, maintaining a distance of 5–8 mm. Excess binder is removed with a spatula. Wipe the stained stones with a dry cloth.
4. Fill the seams with sand and smooth them with a brush.

A stone patio looks most impressive with a small border built from the same material.

Made of wood

The base of this type of patio is natural and very pleasant to use, but not as durable as stone

The technology for constructing a wooden platform will require waterproofing from geotextile or roofing felt. These materials must be purchased in advance.

The construction of such a site is also carried out in several stages.

1. Mark the area.
2. Filming fertile layer.
3. Level and compact the bottom of the pit.
4. Lay geotextiles or roofing felt with an overlap between the sheets of 7–10 cm.
5. Pour sand in a layer of 5–10 cm. Water and compact.
6. Pour 7–10 cm of gravel. Compacted.
7. Logs are laid from timber with a section of 100x100 or 100x150 mm. The step between the beams is 50–60 cm. Under the logs, every 50 cm, place paving slabs size 300x300 mm. With its help, a ventilation gap is formed.
8. Boards 25–40 mm thick are attached perpendicular to the joists. It is better to use nails as fasteners for outdoor decking than self-tapping screws. Maintain a distance between boards of 7–8 mm. The gap is necessary for water drainage, ventilation, and to prevent wood swelling and deformation of the flooring.

After rain, it is difficult to walk on wet wood as it becomes slippery. In order to improve adhesion between the flooring and shoes and ensure safety of movement, it is recommended to use brushed boards.

With barbecue

The atmosphere of “lifeless” stone and “living” fire in such projects is balanced, and areas with barbecues are very cozy, especially in the evening

Brazier - open hearth, which traditionally has a round or oval shape and is built only on stone, brick or concrete platforms made of brick, including hollow brick.

There are six stages of work here.

1. Preparation of the site for paving, including marking and installation of a shock-absorbing “cushion”.
2. Marking the location of the grill.
3. Laying the first row of bricks using cement-sand mortar.
4. Reinforcement with metal mesh. Performed every third row.
5. Construction of the barbecue to the required height.
6. Cladding the area and walls of the barbecue.

To finish the hearth you will need heat-resistant materials:

• special ceramic tiles;
• a natural stone;
• marble or granite chips.

The facing materials are laid on a cement-sand mortar.

When designing, it is taken into account that barbecues look most impressive if their outline is emphasized by decor: lined with stones, tiles of a different color or a special shape.

Patio decoration

The most creative stage of setting up a patio is its design. When choosing furniture and decorative elements, it is taken into account that in natural conditions it is best to use non-hygroscopic materials.

Furniture

The textile elements of such furniture are usually removable, and its frame is moisture resistant

The best option for landscaping a recreation area is furniture made of wicker or rattan. The difference between these materials is that the first is prepared mainly from willow branches, and the second is obtained from the dried stems of calamus or rattan palm. But both types of materials are natural, durable, and aesthetically attractive. They are traditionally made from garden furniture. It is easy to use and lightweight.

Chairs and mini-sofas made of leather, faux leather, and metal are appropriate on the patio. If the recreation area is located under a canopy, wooden furniture is also installed. A traditional design element for outdoor recreation areas is decorative benches. Metal and wooden ones, with forged decor, are suitable. The spacious patios are equipped with sun loungers for air baths.

Lighting

A variety of lamps makes it possible to adjust the level of illumination of the site to create the most comfortable atmosphere

Infrared outdoor heaters, which are also a source of dim light, are suitable for decorating and improving the recreation area. They operate on liquefied gas, the cylinder is located at the base of the body. This equipment is indispensable for installing lighting in areas remote from the house, to which it is difficult to supply electricity.

Where it exists, a variety of lamps are installed. The most popular are pendant ones, designed to illuminate barbecues, tables, and the most spectacular places with landscaping.

To create a romantic atmosphere, New Year's garlands and LED strips are used. They are placed along the contours of the walls, on columns, and curbs. Taken together, they provide enough bright light in order to clearly see all objects within the patio and at a short distance from it.

Plants

Such " green walls» can bring stone patios to life like nothing else

Plants in the design of a recreation area not only play the role of decoration, but are also used to zone spacious areas and create borders.

An effective technique is the installation of lattice partitions, next to which climbing plants are planted: ivy, grapes, hops. As they grow, they form picturesque wall, covering the resting place from prying eyes and protecting from the wind.

Flowers and ornamental trees It is advisable to plant in so-called “smart” flowerpots and pots. Some of the most popular and affordable ones are produced under the Lechuza brand. They are equipped with aeration and automatic watering systems, which greatly facilitates plant care.

Decor

Bouquets on tables, wooden ceiling, upholstered furniture and a bio-fireplace create the feeling of a cozy living room in the patio, only with big amount fresh air

All decorative elements should create a feeling of comfort and tranquility. Therefore, sofa cushions, poufs, and banquettes are appropriate in the design of the patio.

An excellent choice would be a biofireplace, wall-mounted (for wall-mounted areas), floor-mounted or table-top. This modern equipment, safe and different stylish design. Runs on alcohol or dry fuel.

Ideas for inspiration

In an area surrounded by trees, even a simple outdoor patio will look very organic

You can set up a small, cozy patio for little money. The decorative backs of chairs of this budget option give the seating area a stylish and at the same time cozy look. Abundance green spaces and flowers in flowerpots create a picturesque corner of nature. The patio is open, without a canopy, but protected from the sun's rays by the spreading crown of a tree.

Decorating your patio with stone is the only way to cool your patio space a little in hot weather

Cozy Mediterranean style backyard. The simple furnishings do not distract attention and do not interfere with enjoying the sea view. Stone fencing is an indispensable attribute of this style. It brings a note of security and solidity.

The wooden fence and wicker barrel seats are in perfect harmony with each other.

Spectacular and calm relaxation area, bright elements which includes decorative wicker chairs in the shape of barrels. The central part of the composition is the grill. The design uses inexpensive, harmoniously combined items.

In this design, benches will serve more of a decorative function.

Cozy walled courtyard. An original solution - arranging a border in the form wooden benches, matching in texture and color with the flooring. The area is small in size, intended for family relaxation and receiving guests.

The combination of light and dark stone looks very impressive

Stylish and presentable seating area. Simple and inexpensive materials were used in its construction and design: paving stones, wood, brick. The space is zoned using an irregularly shaped site, borders and a gazebo.

Soft light gives plants even more charm

The central element of a small patio can be an ordinary flowerpot with a plant or a flower arrangement. Laconic lamps create a special romance.

The contrast of shapes and colors in the two zones of such a patio looks interesting

The design of this patio uses the standard principle of zoning the area using the shape and cladding of the site. The resting place is divided into two parts: for cooking and eating.

Such a platform is interesting in itself, but when in good weather a light table and chairs are placed on it for eating in the fresh air, it becomes even more functional

An excellent option for decorating a patio area. It effectively combines several elements at once: a platform raised above ground level, stone border, flowers, fencing.

Most likely, the stone bar area in such a project is intended for a male company, and the wooden relaxation area with armchairs and a table made of a wide wooden frame in the distance is intended for a female group.

Originally decorated tables invariably attract attention. They are easy to make: just cover the space between the legs with panels of decorative stone.

A fountain on the patio can add even more positivity to the atmosphere than an artificial pond.

A patio with a fountain is one of the most spectacular ways to create a recreation area. The presence of water is refreshing summer heat, and its murmur soothes and promotes relaxation.

Building and decorating a patio at your dacha with your own hands is not as difficult a task as it might seem at first glance. All work can be done independently, without the help or advice of specialists. The following step-by-step instructions will help with this.

A patio is an outdoor courtyard of a living space surrounded by greenery, a gallery, trellis or walls. A similar architectural element was popular back in Ancient Rome. Cozy courtyards buildings were built behind blank walls not only in the possessions of the nobility.

Beautiful patios were an integral part of every home. In the Middle Ages, such comfortable areas became one of the details of the Spanish-Moorish style in architecture.

Today, patios are very popular in European countries, the Mediterranean region, Scandinavia and America. In Russia, the demand for such facilities is also growing. After all, they are perfect for rest and relaxation, and their construction does not require significant costs.

Features of open courtyards

A well-built patio is a landscaped courtyard located in the fresh air among green spaces. Its purpose is to restore strength and spend family leisure time.

The basis of a traditional patio is a paved area. Decor internal space depends on the specifics of its purpose. It is usually equipped with a wooden table and chairs. It would also be appropriate to place a comfortable hammock, swing bench or rocking chair on the patio.

To create a feeling of privacy, they try to place the object so that it is surrounded by:

• walls of a building or outbuildings;
• blind fence;
• trees with a dense crown, lush flowering bushes and shrubs;
• green fence;
• decorative hedge.

The main principle of designing a patio in a garden at the dacha is to use only natural materials to ensure unity with nature.

Types of patios

Depending on the shape of the patio it can be:

• U-shaped;
• L-shaped.

Patios are also distinguished:

• balcony;
• with barbecue area;
• in the backyard of the house;
• in front of the house;
• solarium;
• multi-level.

There are no strict rules for the construction of such recreation areas. But there are some points to consider. The advantage of an L- or U-shaped configuration is that such forms allow you to hide the courtyard from prying eyes. You can make sure that there is an entrance to the main building from the patio. It's quite convenient.

What you need to know to build a patio

Building a patio yourself is not as difficult as it seems at first glance. First you need to decide on:

• The purpose of the patio.
• Location on the territory.
• Shape and size of the relaxation area.
• Finishing materials for paving the patio.
• Furnished.
• Decor.

We have already talked about the appointment. Now let’s figure out where it’s best to place the patio. Choosing a location requires a particularly careful approach. The optimal area for a patio is considered to be the area near the western wall of the house, overlooking the garden.

If you want to arrange a recreation area on the side of the front facade, decorative trellises braided with hanging plants or vines can become protection from prying eyes. For lovers of peace and serenity, the optimal location for a patio would be a shady corner of the garden or a lawn near a small pond.

The size of the open courtyard depends on its purpose. Are you building it for privacy? Then its area may be small. If you plan to organize meetings with friends and relatives in it, then the size of the structure should be appropriate so that all invitees feel cozy and comfortable.

Photos of a patio at the dacha clearly demonstrate that the shape of the site can be any - square, rectangular, round. But if the property is adjacent to the house, then it is better to focus on the first two options.

When building a patio with your own hands, they can be used as paving material. cement slabs, natural or artificial stone, wood, terracotta tiles. Decking coating is quite popular.

As for the design, the placement of flower beds and bushes, individual flower pots and evergreens can be both chaotic and ordered (for example, along the perimeter of the site). The walls of the patio can be decorated with hanging plant species.

Wicker furniture made of rattan or wicker is perfect for an open patio. A table and chairs made of wood would also look good. Don't forget to think about the lighting. After all, on warm summer evenings it is very tempting to sit on the patio and watch the stars.

Photo of a patio at the dacha