Patio: a special seating area in your backyard

From spanish patio translated as “outdoor patio”. This concept comes from peristyle (peristylium), in Greek ??????????, which meant a site, courtyard or garden surrounded by a colonnade. The first patios appeared in Ancient Greece and Rome, in such courtyards, closed from prying eyes, but open to the fresh wind, the ancient Roman patricians loved to relax..

Patios were actively developed in all Mediterranean countries, the states of the Islamic world, and then became widespread in Europe, USA, Australia, Latin America. Sometimes patios are called terraces and verandas, but this is a slightly different option, although, of course, there are common features. The terrace and veranda are always adjacent to the house, becoming its extension, simply unheated. In addition, the terrace is always raised above ground level, it is a platform. But the patio can be located in the farthest corner of the garden and at ground level.

Patios were created for fiesta, that is, holidays and celebrations in the open air, and siesta – an imposing relaxation on hot summer days. In addition, a patio is:

• Lunch or dinner in a pleasant open-air company.
• Board games.
• Sunbathing.
• And be sure to relax – there is no way without it.

The indispensable attributes of a classic patio are:

• Level area for garden furniture and relaxation.
• Water. Small fountain such as mini pond, swimming pool. Replacing the reservoir can be ordinary water jugs or any containers for collecting rainwater, which will definitely find its use..
• Groups of shrubs, trees, flower garden, lawn, any landscaping.

In addition, the classic patio does not have a roof so you can admire the starry sky or sunbathe. However, now the awnings over the patio are not uncommon, it is really convenient and functional. As a compromise, a pergola is used, which does not completely cover the resting area, but at the same time gives shade.

Paved the patio, taking care of the drainage, always with stone and tiles. Now terracotta tiles are still in fashion, clinker bricks, paving slabs, porcelain stoneware, artificial stone and a novelty – printed concrete are used to equip the base of the patio.

Brazier, hearth, fireplace, barbecue oven are now often an attribute of the patio, although historically this was not accepted. Thanks to the living fire, the patio turns into an area for picnics, traditional barbecues in the fresh air.

Usually, the most secluded and hidden corner of the yard or garden is chosen for the patio. A backyard, closed from the road and passers-by by a residential building, is ideal. Or a place with the most beautiful view. In any case, remember that the patio is relaxation, tranquility, romance, comfort and tranquility..