American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language defines patio as “usually paved outdoor area adjoining a residence.”  The paving can be stone, brick, concrete or paving stones.  However in the real world, the patio is used by families in many ways.

The patio can be the extension of the Dinning Room, additional space during parties and family gatherings.  It can be the staging area for pool time with the kids.  How about the reading nook on a Saturday afternoon or the peaceful space for a Sunday brunch for two?  Maybe it is the best place to roll in the new BBQ for a grilled feast.  Put a telescope on it in the middle of the night and have a private stars viewing.  Add a water feature, and feel your shoulders relax as you put your feet up and listen.

Patios are not just an outdoor area adjoining a residence.  Flat or multi-layers, round, square, rectangular or oval, patios are part of what makes a house a home.

For more patio ideas, go to outdoor living in the Galleries section of this website.