Home Improvement Trends: Patios & Pergolas

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Home Improvement Trends: Patios & Pergolas 1

Home Improvement Trends: Patios & Pergolas

Take advantage of our incredible Canadian summers with a picture-perfect patio that’s also the perfect place to hang out, entertain, or to take five away from the world. Here are some patio trends to look out for in 2018!

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Outdoor kitchens

There is a huge range of options when it comes to outdoor kitchens, and how elaborate your outdoor set-up is depends on your budget and your imagination! You can just install a gas bbq for light entertaining, or go all out with perks like an ice maker and wine cabinet.Ceramic grills are also becoming more popular with outdoor entertainers, as well as wood-fired pizza ovens for some epic pizza parties. You could also install a kitchen island, which gives you needed storage and prep spaces, plus all you need are a few stools for additional seating. Talk to your contractor about extending the plumbing, electrical, and gas lines from your home to the patio to support all your new appliances and turn your patio into a fully-functional second kitchen!

Heating features

From built-in outdoor fireplaces to a portable fire bowl, you have endless options when it comes to heating features. Afire bowl can do double-duty as a table with the right cover, keeping your picnic options open during the day. Or, if you’d like to install a fireplace, you can connect it to the gas in the house, or opt for wood-burning and enjoy a beautiful, crackling fire. If a built-in fireplace isn’t in your floor plan (or your budget), you can go for a more basic iron or steel bowl or a chiminea-style freestanding fireplaces. These are available at most home improvement stores. Or, for something really eye-catching, and go for a custom-created half-barrel that’s been modified with custom cut-outs. Just remember to always consult your local municipality about outdoor burning regulations!

Wonderful walkways + picture-perfect patios

Say goodbye to weather-stained old deck boards — patios and walkways are taking on a whole new look in 2018! Cobblestones are making a comeback, as well as lighter-stained timber planksto keep the space bright and light. Combinations are also a hot trend: mix several colours of gravel, select different sizes of stone and make a patchwork effect, or just go with the imperfect perfection of large, differently-shaped stone slabs, like flagstone.Add a splash of colour to your existing concrete slab with a stamped, coloured-concrete effect, or keep things naturally beautiful with outdoor stone tiles.

Maximum relaxation

Turn your patio into a hidden oasis with a daybed. Invest in stand-alone pieces, or install a hanging daybed, as long as you have the structural support (or a pergola!). You could always opt for hammocks or a porch swing if you don’t have room for a daybed, or invest in wicker and resin outdoor living sets for effortless style in smaller spaces. Don’t forget to add accessories like bright green potted plants, candles in hurricane vases, and colourful outdoor pillows everywhere to maximize the coziness. While outdoor pillow fabrics tend to be heartier, make sure to store them inside when necessary in case of rain.

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Made in the shade

2018 has stylish ways to keep your patio shadier than ever! If you have the space, consider a pergola. A Pergola is a structure made with columns, which can be simple or more elaborate raised panels with decorative trim and timbers, plus a lattice roof or horizontal beams overhead to let the light in. Pergolas can stand alone – like a gazebo but without the walls – so are perfect whatever shape your yard is. They’re also a stunning architectural piece you can use to hang lights and plants, or to cover in trailing vines to create a little piece of Europe in your own backyard! If you’d prefer a patio umbrella, we have good news! Advances in waterproofing and UV protection in fabric mean there is a huge range of patio umbrellas, from fun colours to match your cushions or just a basic, Italian-inspired canvas.

Check out more home renovation trends for kitchens, decks and docks, and bathrooms!

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Ken Jaquith Director Of Client Experience
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