Patio Walls

The rich, warm luster of a stone wall adds dimension to a small patio. But use light colored stones, perhaps streaked with light rose shades, mossy green or a natural light gray. Don't use big boulder size rocks to build the wall because the volume can overwhelm the patio when there is only a small space to work with.

In the patio at this old house there is room for one small section of stone wall. Visualizing it, and drawing it out on landscaping software is difficult, though. Two sides of the enclosure are the exterior walls of the house. The stone wall would be an extension of one of these house walls, only about 2-1/2 to 3 feet wide. It would join up with the wood fencing that makes up the other two walls. Such a small area of rock may not be worth the materials and labor.

The attraction is that even that small segment of stone could be the perfect backdrop to a little design element. A garden statue would look terrific with a stone background. A large potted plant with its green foliage would stand out visually if it had the stone for a backdrop. Even a small fountain could be worked into the design in that corner.


[Photo: Jorc Navarro]

Try Landscaping Software

If graph paper, a pencil and an eraser becomes to cumbersome, try landscaping software to turn small patio landscaping ideas into blueprints. Software packages are available for both PC and Macs. Usually the programs come as a module within a larger, more complete architectural software package. Don't fret about pricing, especially if there are one or more larger patios or gardens on the property. Even better, use the interior design software for any remodeling or renovation projects inside the house.

Look for landscape design software that is labeled for beginners. This type of program tends to be very visual. You can typically import your own photos or use photos from the program's library. In the library will also be outlines of garden furniture, containers and pots, outdoor lighting fixtures and architectural elements that can be sized and pasted into the patio design drawing.

Don't be intimidated. Try everything. Draw the most outrageous designs possible and save. Then draw minimalist designs. Place two simple pieces of furniture in the small outdoor space--maybe a hammock and a small table to hold your drink. Then jazz it up with an outdoor grill, a couple of potted citrus trees and some colorful tiles. Swap positions with the elements and use the software to visualize how it would look. Sit back and imagine the flow. How would it feel to step into the patio with a platter full of appetizers, set them on the table shaded by a market umbrella and then, sink back into a comfy garden chair for a chit chat and snacks with a friend.

[Photo: Gesine Kuhlmann]