One of the greatest things to be able to experience on the weekends or any time after a long day is to step into your own patio oasis. With patio designs what they are these days, you can create a wonderful new space with almost any amount of square footage. If you’ve got a lot of space to work with, then the patio cover ideas are truly limitless. In all reality, the size of the space isn’t really the concern so much as it is the type of space you want to create. If you want a very grand and open, far-reaching patio view, then you will obviously require more space in order to achieve this. If you have something more intimate or a space that is more of a little retreat, then you can achieve this with most any size space. It is all in the design. The design of your patio will help you to add those softening features that are what really make your space come to life.
For the sake of this article, we’ll use the pergola as a great example of what to build that can be dressed up to suit most any space. In some areas of the country, you’ll hear the term arbor or even trellis. In most cases, these terms are synonymous and simply reflect the size of the structure. In any case, it is all about proportion. Like in any properly designed space, you should be able to feel a sense of flow and comfort within it. If you feel boxed in, trapped, or lost in the space, then it is probably not designed well. So, before you even begin to consider how to make your patio more lush by adding the greenery, you’ll need to have the proper design and planning first. It isn’t that patio covers are so complex to design or build. In fact, in the case of the pergola, quite the opposite is true. It is the simple nature of the pergola design that makes it so appealing and attractive for a patio.
Okay, so let’s now assume that you have the space all figured out and you have decided that you are going to construct (or have built) an lattice-roof pergola in your space. These are quite common so you should be easily able to find materials or contractors familiar with building them. The reason for the open roof aspect is that you will be adding in living plants to create more of a living roof to this patio structure. A patio cover is a great thing in and of itself, but when it acts as a supportive structure for a living plant or climbing and flowering vines, you are in for an entirely different and unique look. If you decide to hire a pro, it would be a good idea to consult with a landscape designer to get the right dimensions for whatever types of plants you have in mind. Some vines or plants will not grow to the size of others and this may affect the shade that you are expecting from them. Keep in mind that your plants will need time to grow and provide you with that cool and softened patio area. You’ll need to have some patience as the process of your covered patio maturing may take several years depending upon your climate and factors relating to the growth of the plants and vines you select. You may find that the look of your pergola begins taking shape much sooner as most vines and climbing plants are somewhat invasive, meaning you should also keep your eye on them. One day you’lll go outside to find that your patio cover has been ‘eaten’ by your plants that you meant to soften your space. The last thing you want is for your plants to consume your patio.
