Drawing the Patio Design

The measurements are done. The property lines have been marked and verified. Now the precise dimensions of the patio are a reality, not just a lot of guesswork. It is time to translate these dimensions on to hard copy and play with small backyard patio designs.

Graph paper, a pencil and an eraser are the cheap and cheerful way to start this stage of the design. The downside is that every time new design ideas pop up, there is a lot of erasing and redrawing. And it is difficult to go back to earlier ideas once they've been removed from the page. If history is any indication, it is possible that at least 30 sheets of graph paper will get used for each angle as the ideas are redrawn.

Still, if graph paper is the chosen route, draw a 'floor plan' and a view of each side of the garden. Next, make a list of all the elements that will be included in the patio design. Plants, wall art, patio furniture, storage, a grill, lighting and free space all go on this 'wish' list. Study the photos in patio and garden design books. Wander through stores, sit on lawn chairs, lie on the hammocks, touch planters, look at market umbrellas, and check out the charcoal, gas and electric grills.

Gather information on the size of each interesting patio furnishing. Get any brochures available so that there is an easy reference to measurements when these items get drawn into the patio design. Carry a measuring tape and small pad of paper during forays into the outdoor furniture departments and the garden center to record the size of different style of chairs, tables and planters. Take pictures with a digital camera for quick reference, because information overload does happen. With a picture on file, it is possible to relax and have fun with the entire process.

[Photo: Jork Navarro]