Designing a Patio That Connects You to the Garden

Patio vs. Deck

Decks separate you with rails; patios integrate you with the landscape. A patio off a greenhouse facing the vegetable garden lets you watch daily growth.

How to Plan a Patio

• Choose site carefully—facing a garden view or hills.
• Define space with plants (leafy walls, ground covers between pavers).
• Establish a color scheme coordinating with surroundings.
• Choose materials (tumbled concrete, bluestone, Corsican mint between pavers).
• Provide seating for conversation.
• Add finishing touches: fountain, cushions, garden art.