Creating an outdoor living space can be an exciting project for homeowners. The perfect patio can add value to your home and provide a place for relaxation and entertainment. 

However, designing and building a patio can also be overwhelming, mainly if you’re doing it for the first time. (And that’s exactly why we recommend leaving the job to the professionals.)

There are many factors to consider when creating your patio, from drainage to privacy to the choice of pavers. In this post, we’ll provide eight essential things to keep in mind when building the perfect patio. Read on to turn your dream patio into a reality.

1. Purpose

One of the first considerations when planning your dream patio is that it’s essential to consider how the space will be used. If hosting and entertaining are a priority, an outdoor kitchen with a grill, sink, and ample counter space allows for convenient meal preparation and serving. 

For a more relaxed retreat, oversized lounge furniture around the fire pit creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for casual conversation and unwinding. Determining the primary function of the patio will help guide decisions about necessary features and furnishings to make the most of the area. 

2. Drainage & Water Retention

Installing drainage behind patio wall

Water damage is one of the most significant dangers to the long-term health of your patio. Therefore, you must consider how water will drain from your patio. 

You — or the team building your patio — need to ensure that your hardscape slopes away from your home or severely slopes in one direction. This means that water will not pool on your patio or cause damage to your foundation. Additionally, consider adding a gravel bed under the deck, which can help to hold excess water underground.

3. Sloping Land

Patio for Parson's Library - on a sloped elevation

The slope of your yard will also affect the design of your patio. As we mentioned, if your yard slopes towards your home, it can cause water damage or flooding. 

Not only can proper drainage help with this issue, but having steps or a retaining wall installed can also help with sloping land toward your home. 

4. Privacy

Fences & trees to surround the patio

Once you have a functional foundation, it’s essential to consider your desired level of privacy for the patio. You may require a privacy fence or wall, depending on your neighborhood and lifestyle. 

To obscure the view, you can also consider privacy plants, such as tall grass, ferns, or bushes. Furthermore, make perceptive use of structures like pergolas to add an attractive touch and create even more privacy.

5. Patio Paver Color

outdoor couch with fire pit in the middle
Greencare will help you through the process of creating an outdoor space patio design plans from start to finish.

While the foundation and functionality of your patio are critical, you cannot overlook the design. One of the most significant design trends in recent years is using contrasting colors for patio pavers. 

A contrast of different hues, sizes, or textures can add depth and visual interest — specifically around the border or edges of your patio. What’s more: contrasting pavers can help make various hardscape levels more obvious for improved safety.

6. Fire Pit

Custom firepit made by Greencare Landscaping

A fire pit or outdoor fireplace is a perfect addition to any patio. It’s an excellent way to keep warm on chilly Maine evenings and create a cozy atmosphere for family and friends. 

Plus, fire pits add an aesthetic value that complements the surrounding landscape. Consider the size, style, and location of your fire pit to ensure that it’s both safe and functional.

7. Low Maintenance Options

Consider how low-maintenance the materials are for your hardscape. Since rocks, stones, and pavers are very durable and require minimal maintenance, they’re an excellent choice for a beautiful and long-lasting patio. 

Additionally, river rock can be used for landscaping around the border of your patio to create a beautiful and seamless design, as well as being low maintenance.

8. Shelter & Shade

Shelter & Shade on the patio

Adding shade and shelter to your patio is essential if you want to be able to enjoy it year-round. Sun protection in the summer months will help keep the patio area cool, while an umbrella or awning of your choice can provide shelter from the rain, wind, and even snow during the coldest months. 

Make sure that whatever type of shade or shelter you go for suits both your needs and budget — then relax as your perfect outdoor escape comes to life!


Designing and building a patio can be time-consuming, but it’s an excellent investment that adds value and functionality to your home. Before you begin, consider purpose, drainage, land slope, privacy, contrasting colors for pavers, fire pit, low maintenance options, and shelter or shade. These eight essential considerations will help you work with the right team to create the perfect patio for your home; ultimately providing a relaxing outdoor living space for years to come. And if you’re looking for beautiful stonework or a hardscape installation for your Southern Maine home or business, Greencare can help. Contact us today for a free estimate.

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