How to Convert an Ugly Gravel Patio

Reconfigure the gravel patio so it has a curved edge rather than a straight edge. A curved edged softens the landscape and will make an immediate difference.

Define the patio edge with a border. For example, dig a small trench and lay red bricks to create a border. Red also adds a splash of color to the drab gravel. You can also build or have a small wall built that is two or three bricks wide and six or seven bricks high. The wall also provides extra seating for large gatherings.

Create a small, intimate seating area that is off to one side. Use pavers of varying shapes, including large and small squares, rectangles and circles. The pavers could vary in color as well. If you're on a tight budget, use leftover pavers from friends, family and neighbors' projects. Excavate about 1/2 inch of the gravel and create a pattern with the pavers, such as one that is circular, to give your gravel patio an interesting focal point. Fill in any spaces with the excavated gravel.

Place an attractive seating or dining area on your gravel patio. A small wrought iron seating may work well in the corner of the patio. To contrast the color and feel of the gravel, however, a more modern patio set with colorful cushions and umbrella may look better. Choose furniture with wide feet so they do not sink down into the gravel as much as small feet would.

Landscape the patio with planters. Think outside of the box and use an old red wagon to plant a couple plants in, for example. You could also grow trailing petunias or other trailing plants in an old wine barrel. Select colorful containers with bold colors and varying sizes for a more dramatic effect.

Install a trellis or arbor to create shade if the patio is in a sunny location. Grow a flowering vine, such as clematis or jasmine, that blooms every year with beautiful flowers, adding more interest to the gravel patio.