5 Landscape Design Inspirations for Your Wheaton, IL, Outdoor Patio
Choosing a landscape design that makes the most of your Wheaton, IL, patio can be a challenge. You want something that would be aesthetically pleasing yet unique, while still being practical for daily use. Here are five inspirations to help you decide on your patio’s design.
Kitchen Patio
A kitchen-centric patio is a perfect choice for a food lover. Naturally, it starts with designing the perfect outdoor kitchen integrated into your patio. This can include the seating and dining areas. The kitchen would be the highlight of the patio in such a design, so it is important to choose the right materials and appliances to help assert a focal position. Stainless steel appliances coupled with striking colors for the kitchen island and floor are a good starting point.
Multi-level Patio
If your home’s landscape involves gradient changes, a multi-level terraced patio can be an excellent design option. It helps showcase your yard’s distinctive vertical element while opening up flat space for the construction. The patio can be spread over multiple levels connected with walkways and steps. The different levels can also be segregated with different functions, such as the higher level being used for seating and dining while the lower levels house the grill or outdoor kitchen. It's important to also pay attention to practical safety considerations, such as reinforcing the terraces with retaining walls if necessary.
Fire and Water
Fire elements and water elements are among the most distinctive features in landscape design, and having both can really make your patio shine. Fire features such as fire pits and fireplaces are a natural complement to patios, providing warmth and light to occupants as they sit around them. Water elements can range from a simple fountain to a more elaborate pond complete with waterfall, enhancing your patio’s atmosphere with the distinctive sound of running water. Having these two naturally contrasting elements together can create a wonderfully unique design for your patio.
Rustic Patio
A rustic patio is especially well suited for traditional homes. Start with choosing a brick paver to give your patio the traditional charm of old European and American cities. Modern concrete pavers are also a great choice since they are available in a wide range of traditional brick designs, giving you the authentic look with all the advantages of modern concrete. Complement the patio with strategically placed plantings, gravel walkways, and wood fencing in accordance with the rustic theme. A traditional fire pit can complete the design and give you a final product that stands out.
Modern Patio
For more modern homes, a minimalist patio would be a natural choice. Choose a modern paver that suits the exterior design of your home and features subtle colors with sharp lines and clean edges. Modern materials such as metal and glass could be used for patio furniture to complement the minimalist design. For purists of this style, walkways and softscaping should be feature straight, neat edges and irregular shapes should be avoided. Lastly, if you want a distinctive fire element, choose a rectangular fire pit or a modern fire table to give your modern patio a visual focal point.
