# Patio & Porch Ideas
-
Patio and Porch Furniture
-
Select furniture that is in scale with the area that you are working within. A large open patio can accommodate a table and chairs with an overhead umbrella, but a small, enclosed space will not. For small spaces, choose benches or folding chairs that can easily be moved. Colorful plastic cubes can act as tables without taking up much space. Larger areas give you the freedom to use large movable furniture of metal, wood or wicker or even built-in stone benches to surround a fireplace or along a wall.
Plants and Lights
-
Use roofs and overhangs to create a garden above. Flowering plants in small or large containers always add a bright spot to any patio or porch, but you may also consider plants that you are able to harvest. Vegetables and herbs can be potted in painted clay pots that add character to your outdoor living space. Italian Majolica containers are beautiful in displaying fresh green herbs, adding an artistic touch to large or small areas. A trellis of lavender or honeysuckle can create a heavenly scent on the patio. If you have a roof or overhang, you can also add plants that hang from the top edges. LED lighting has made it possible to string clear or colored lights almost anywhere to add life to a patio or porch heading into dusk. Because LED lights never get hot, you can string from plants, down trellises, moldings or along rails.
Fountains, Statues and Chimes
-
Water features come in an array of sizes and designs. Art has found its way into sculpting stone into water fountains and statues that add a contemporary modern touch to a well-planned patio. From flowing rock garden tabletop models to large waterfall boulders, nothing can make you relax like the trickle and scent of fresh water. Statues come in any size, from small garden wall decorations to standing depictions of ceramic or bronze children, animals or religious symbols. Chimes can add a musical tone with light twinkling or heavy rhythm while you enjoy the outdoor breeze. Cut-glass wind chimes can catch the sunshine and add a mixture of changing colors. A porch and patio can be your own sanctuary when planned with touches of your favorite things.
-
