How to Choose the Right Patio Design for Your Lifestyle

A patio isn’t just a slab of concrete—it’s the foundation of your outdoor living space.

Whether you plan to host backyard BBQs, relax with family, or create a quiet retreat, the right patio design makes all the difference.

At Salas Outdoors, we specialize in building patios that fit your home, your needs, and your lifestyle. Here’s what to consider before starting your patio project.

1. Consider How You’ll Use the Patio

The first question to ask yourself: How do I plan to use this space?

Your answer will influence everything from size and layout to materials and add-ons.

Common Use Cases:

• Entertainment: Add space for dining tables, outdoor kitchens, or a fire pit
• Relaxation: Include a shaded lounge area or water feature
• Family time: Make room for play areas, turf zones, or built-in seating
• Multi-use: Combine zones for cooking, lounging, and hosting

Knowing your purpose up front helps ensure your design is functional—not just pretty.

2. Choose the Right Materials

Material choice affects durability, appearance, and maintenance. At Salas Outdoors, we offer a variety of patio finishes to match your vision and budget.

Popular Patio Materials:

• Stamped Concrete: Durable, customizable, and cost-effective
• Natural Stone: Timeless and upscale, great for luxury looks
• Pavers: Flexible layout, easy to repair or extend later
• Brushed Concrete: Clean, minimal, and affordable

We’ll help you choose materials based on weather exposure, traffic, and aesthetics.

3. Size and Shape Should Fit the Space

A poorly sized patio can look out of place or feel unusable. We recommend:

• At least 100–200 sq. ft. for small lounges
• Around 300–500 sq. ft. for entertainment zones
• Custom sizes for odd-shaped or multi-use backyards

Shapes can be square, rectangular, curved, or completely custom—depending on your yard and layout.

4. Think About Cover and Shade

If you plan to use your patio year-round or during hot Texas summers, shade is essential.

Options to Consider:

• Pergolas: Elegant and partially shaded
• Covered Roof Extensions: Fully shaded and weather-protected
• Retractable Awnings: Flexible and stylish
• Built-In Planters or Trees: Natural shade and greenery

Adding cover also helps protect furniture and increases usability.

5. Don’t Skip Lighting and Extras

Evening use is just as important as daytime functionality. Add ambient lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting to get the most out of your patio.

Other features to enhance your design:

• Built-in seating or benches
• Decorative edging or borders
• Fire pits or heaters
• Outdoor speakers or mounted TVs

At Salas Outdoors, we integrate these details during design—not after.

6. Match the Style of Your Home

Your patio should complement—not clash with—your home’s architectural style. We offer design solutions that enhance curb appeal while blending seamlessly with your existing structure.

For example:

• Modern homes: Clean lines, concrete slabs, metal accents
• Traditional homes: Curved edges, stonework, natural tones
• Rustic styles: Wood finishes, textured pavers, exposed beams

The goal is to create an outdoor extension that feels intentional and beautiful.

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