A Secluded Garden Patio for Gathering Friends

In a sunny corner of their Seattle garden, Daniel Sparler and Jeff Schouten created a patio that feels like a destination—set apart from the house, down a winding path, and surrounded by lush shrubs, perennials, and annuals. It has the ambience of a woodland campfire, but guests gather around a cozy table instead of a fire pit. "We wanted this part of the garden to be a place set apart," Sparler says. "We wanted to make a reference to the classics—classic design."

Structure and Color

To make room for the hexagonal patio, they cleared a planting bed and encircled the space with a low wall and five columns of varying heights, all of reinforced concrete poured in place. The columns and walls were coated with exterior latex paint in rosy mauve tones (walls are purple), with vertical indentations painted hunter green and purple for added drama. Floor tiles echo these colors.

Elements of an Inviting Patio

Privacy

Tall shrubs, hedges, or vine-covered fences make a detached patio feel secluded. The columns create the illusion of walls without feeling confining.

Eye Candy

Outdoor art, colorful walls, interesting floor tiles, and containers create a sense of drama.

Comfort

Choose cushioned chairs and a roomy table.

Candlelight

Whether small votives or hurricane lamps, candles never fail to enhance the ambience.

Fragrance

A pot of jasmine, gardenia, or Bouvardia longiflora sends out delicious scents, especially on balmy nights.

Friends gather here for alfresco dining or a glass of wine by candlelight, accompanied by talk and laughter.