Patio Design and Patio Furniture - The Use of Focal Points

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/.

---

Imagine Your Own Orchid Garden In A Pond

Who doesn't love to hear the water rushing and flowing... Read More

Delavays Blueberry (Vaccinium delavayi)

Whether we know it or not, most of us are... Read More

Tillandsia Airplants - Dont Plant These Plants!

Watch out, it's a tillandsia! Have no fear, I said... Read More

Park Benches

One of the best ways to create a warm and... Read More

Growing Palms

Palms Everybody recognises palm trees, they are the... Read More

How to Water Your Houseplants Wisely

Over watering ranks first in causes of houseplant demise because... Read More

New for 2006 - Granite Flexible Preformed Rock Ponds

Traditionally, preformed ponds are large shells, which are extremely burdensome... Read More

Why Teak Furniture is the Better Choice

For centuries, it has been known that teak has qualities... Read More

Budget For Your Garden

Have you ever thought about how much it costs to... Read More

Creativity with Ponds

Here's where your creative instincts kick in. This is where... Read More

Introducting KOI-Cam!

This is a project I've had on the back burner... Read More

Homemade Hummingbird Nectar

HUMMINGBIRD NECTAR RECIPEWe love hummingbirds and love to watch them... Read More

Garden for Birds #3

Well, another week is passing us by.I want to thank... Read More

Garden Statuary - Time for a Fresh New Look

Spring is coming, and now is the time to get... Read More

Marsh Marigold

The bright yellow flowers of the marsh marigold (Caltha palustris)... Read More

Plastic & Resin Patio Furniture ? What You Don?t Know

What is the first thought that comes through your mind... Read More

Keeping the Balance of Nature: Pond Water Maintenance

You might be tempted to let Mother Nature, tend to... Read More

How to Buy a Porch Swing

The Porch Swing is enjoying a surge in popularity thanks... Read More

Tuberous Begonias

If you appreciate plants that have no hesitation in boldly... Read More

What You Should Know About Miniature Roses

Miniature roses are exactly what they sound like. They have... Read More

Guide to Basic Lawn Mower Maintenance

Trying to start your lawn mower after a long winter... Read More

Water Conservation in the Garden - Use a Rain Barrel to Harvest Rainwater

If you are a gardener you probably already do a... Read More

Summer Lawn Care Tips

Summer is just around the corner, and your lawn could... Read More

How to Grow Asparagus

Asparagus is a perennial plant with erect, edible stems and... Read More

Science Cant Explain Everything!

You will know that if you have spent at least... Read More

Tips on How to Plant Roses

When spring comes and the ground is thawed, it is... Read More

5 Pieces of Equipment Gardeners Cant Live Without

Gardening is fun and rewarding and may be considered a... Read More

Gardening for Birds Part 2

We've had some well needed rain this past week, though... Read More

Discount Patio Furniture ? An Easy Way to Get the Best

Buying discount patio furniture is an economical way to obtain... Read More

Adirondack Chairs - How to Choose One

In Blue Mountain Lake, New York, you will find a... Read More

Mole Traps: Can You Use Them?

Mole control is one of the most complicated problems that... Read More

Potting Benches: Beautiful and Practical

Do you love spending time outdoors in your garden creating... Read More

Chives - Allium Schoenoprasum

Known as common garden chives, Allium schoenoprasum, can be grown... Read More