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Choosing your patio shape
Circular patios
Part of a circle can often look better than a full circle when it’s right up against the house - it creates interesting shapes around the edges for planting.
A circular patio in the middle of the garden will give a modern look, although it can also be used in a formal garden. Think about having two overlapping circular paved areas, of different sizes or at different levels, for a less symmetrical look.
Positioned at the rear of the garden a circular paved area makes a novel ‘hidden’ feature, or a good base for a gazebo. |
Square patios
A square patio at the front of the garden can easily look a bit boring, unless you use a variety of textures, or add detail around the edge, such as building hollow-topped dwarf walls to plant in. Maybe consider taking a corner out to make it L-shaped?
A square patio in the middle of the garden suits a formal courtyard-style garden, but it could look a bit dull unless you add detail like a central water feature, sculpture or container display.
A plain shape is easier to ‘lose’ when positioned at the rear of the garden where it’s flanked by planting; although it makes a good base for a summerhouse with seating space in front of it. |
Triangular
A triangular patio at the front of the garden suits a modern design, and it adds drama to a typically rectangular garden.
A triangular patio in the middle of the garden might look a bit odd stuck out on its own, unless you have a very strong modern design running around it.
At the rear of the garden a triangular patio is ideal for a private seating area tucked away in a corner. |
Choosing your patio size
Somewhere for sunloungers
A circular or triangular patio may often result in limited space for large furniture like sunloungers. You’d be better off with a round table and individual chairs.
A square, rectangular or L-shaped patio is the most economical shape when you want to use sunloungers. |
Space for two chairs and a table
A circular or triangular patio is perfect for a round table with a parasol in the middle and chairs spaced around it with room to alter the positioning. However, if you have a square, rectangular or L-shaped patio, opt for a square table and chairs, or, for maximum seating when eating outdoors, choose a picnic-style table with built-in bench seats. |
Room for 4-6 chairs, a table and a bbq
If you have a barbecue on a circular patio close to the house it’s important to ensure that the fire is well away from plants, walls or fencing. Remember to allow enough room for people to move about safely without being too close to the heat.
With a triangular patio, use the wide end of the patio for the tables and chairs, and the narrow end for the barbecue to make the best use of space. |
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