A focal point is an important design element; it is a place where the eye naturally comes to rest. In a well-designed patio there is always a planned focal point, such as a large dining set, perhaps with a well-selected umbrella. But a patio's focal point could also be another interesting object or landscape feature.
Examples of landscape features that can be a patio's focal point are an interesting pathway leading from the patio to an area beyond, a flower garden, a mature tree, or a dramatic view of the back lawn.
However, an outdoor dining table with chairs is often a natural focal point because of its size. If you intend to have a large outdoor dining set, there are several things to keep in mind.
Be conscious of the style of the table and chairs and try to keep styles the same. If you have a very rustic patio, then a contemporary table and chairs may not go well together. It is usually a good idea to maintain the same decor style.
Select the colors of the furniture and cushions with care. Visualize the furniture in the location where they will be used. The colors should be similar or complimentary to the surrounding area.
An umbrella is a good addition if it is appropriate. An umbrella in an area already covered may look odd. However, umbrellas usually work well in screened-in areas that are still exposed to direct sunlight. If you buy an umbrella separately from the table and chairs, make very sure the colors and patterns go well with each other as well as the surroundings.
A pair of chaise lounges with an umbrella could also be an interesting focal point. The umbrella would have its own stand. Of course, the cushions on the chaise lounges and the umbrella material would have to either match or be complimentary with each other.
A statue, fountain, or other ornament can be used as a focal point. However several things should be kept in mind. If using a statue, the statue and its size must be in keeping with its surroundings, the style of the house, and the decor of the patio. A large statue of the god Jupiter would probably not look well on a patio with, for example, western decor. But a statue of Venus in a traditional English garden setting would be a pleasing addition. A graceful statue would bring an air of serenity.
Size is important as you would not want to overpower the surrounding garden features with a statue that is too large. One of the most agreeable placements for a nicely sized statue within a garden setting is placement by a wall, such as a red brick wall, especially where there are plants, including climbing plants. Never place a statue in isolation, but in an area where it can become part of its surroundings.
These are but a few examples of possible focal points in a patio or garden setting. There are many other possibilities. The important thing is to include the focal point naturally within the patio or garden environment so that it blends in and be in harmony with its surroundings.
Aleister Holmes is a contributing writer to Better Patio Furniture website at http://www.better-patio-furniture.com/.
My first apartment was a second-story condo in an urban... Read More
Well, another week is passing us by.I want to thank... Read More
Gardening can be one of the most rewarding and relaxing... Read More
Part four in a seriesIt's hard to think about winter... Read More
Here's where your creative instincts kick in. This is where... Read More
Once water temperatures increase in the summer months, fish become... Read More
Are you searching for that perfect bench to set off... Read More
You may already have a garage or shed in your... Read More
Orchid Care Leaves Tell Us About Orchid HealthOver the past... Read More
A pond without plants is like cake without icing. Pond... Read More
Imagine starting your morning with a saunter out the back... Read More
Flower bulbs offer some of the most distinctive, unusual flowers... Read More
The technique of pruning varies with the type of rose... Read More
The fresh air of the early spring solstice and the... Read More
Buying discount patio furniture is an economical way to obtain... Read More
You know that brown patchy debris in a lawn that... Read More
I would like to know...WHO STOLE SUMMER???What did you do... Read More
So, you have decided to plant rose bushes in your... Read More
Nothing invites one to sit and enjoy a lovingly created... Read More
While traveling the US and occasionally taking the back highways... Read More
Do you wish you could grow a sustainable vegetable garden?... Read More
Blue flowers are some of the most striking plants around... Read More
Tropical flowers make an exciting change from the more traditional... Read More
Traditionally Hindu tepmples were located either on hills or forests... Read More
Like many Americans, you may find bird watching to be... Read More
Visualize watching a bright green hummingbird in your garden moving... Read More
Any experienced gardener knows the secret to a beautiful garden... Read More
Building a waterfall is easier than you think and will... Read More
Purchased corn, whether on the cob or in a can... Read More
Severe environmental stressors are the most frequent causes of sudden... Read More
Garden lovers around the world love putting fountains among their... Read More
When starting a new plant from a leaf or stem... Read More
Today there are sprays, scented candles, plug-ins, and even discs... Read More
An important addition to any British back garden, the greenhouse... Read More
Traditionally, preformed ponds are large shells, which are extremely burdensome... Read More
Orchid Care Leaves Tell Us About Orchid HealthOver the past... Read More
Iris flowers always bring memories of mom to mind. Let... Read More
There is nothing more relaxing than kicking back with a... Read More
The easiest way to build a shed in the backyard... Read More
Miniature roses are exactly what they sound like. They have... Read More
If you think that a large pond is simply a... Read More
To care for your antique ceramics you need a gentle... Read More
The no dig garden is exactly what it describes...a fertile... Read More
Worms are not only the gardener's best friend, they are... Read More
Whether you call them Hydrangea Macrophylla, House Hydrangea, French Hydrangea,,... Read More
When I was a child, I loved to pick Dandelions.... Read More
When the days start to get shorter, the darkness may... Read More
Do you love to sit outdoors and swing for hours... Read More
Compost, made from decomposed grass clippings, leaves, twigs, and branches,... Read More
Widely considered to be the most popular roses for... Read More
People choose balcony, patio, and courtyard gardening for many different... Read More
You may already have a garage or shed in your... Read More
Liner ponds are ideal for the experienced water gardener because... Read More
In all likelihood you have heard of teak furniture and... Read More
A garden a serves a man's every day need for... Read More
To many people, "tarp" conjures an image of a crumpled... Read More
The number one, most asked question that I receive about... Read More
DendrobiumsThis month I am focusing our attention to the care... Read More
Chainsaws provide many years of service for very little upkeep.... Read More
If you were to travel to Blue Mountain Lake, New... Read More
As the end of summer approaches, unfortunately far too quickly,... Read More
The flittering of the butterfly through your garden is no... Read More
Quality Dutch tulip bulbs are easy to come by and... Read More
Long a favourite of French chefs, the herb Artemisia dracunculus,... Read More
Sure, it makes sense that there's a buzz about vertical... Read More
Outdoor benches are an excellent way to enhance a garden,... Read More
Landscaping & Gardening |