Create a perfect patio entertainment space

Patios are the perfect place to unwind

Patios provide a perfect place to unwind after a long day of work or running kids around to all of their activities. They also create a perfect space to connect with friends and family over the weekend. In my experience, there is no better atmosphere to learn about what is happening in your child’s life and any challenges they might be facing at school.

Fresh air and an open, comfortable space really allow people to relax and connect. These inspiring outdoor entertaining patios include conversation zones, lounging spaces and dining areas. Add heating elements, including fire pits and fireplaces, to extend patio season. This is even more important for those of us who must endure long, cold midwest winters. I have been known to wear gloves to prevent frostbite while sipping wine on my patio.

Managing the cost of your patio renovation

The cost of a large-scale patio project can add up quickly. Along with hardscaping a patio with pavers, concrete or decking, furniture is one of the most significant expenses. Consider building your own furniture to stretch you budget. This approach requires some woodworking experience, so if you’re not up to the challenge consider second-hand patio furniture. You can always upgrade in the future. A can of Rustoleum primer and spray paint can breathe new life into an old furniture set. Here’s a helpful tutorial from H2O Bungalow.

Patio decor is much easier to DIY. Check out this link for DIY patio decor ideas. Start with small projects to build confidence, then tackle something larger like a dining table or bar cart.

Patio Inspiration

Here are three beautiful outdoor living spaces to get your creative juices flowing. Resources are included. Do not get overwhelmed. Tackle this project bit-by-bit. Put together a step-by-step plan that works for you.

This post contains affiliate links.  If you make a purchase, I will receive a small percentage of the seller’s profit to help cover expenses associated with maintaining this website.  There is no additional cost to you.  Please see my Privacy Policy and Terms of Use for additional information.

Lounging, Dining and Conversation Spaces

Tamara at Citrine Living created a beautiful outdoor entertaining space. I love how she added decking and a pergola to increase the square footage. Decking was a more cost-effective strategy compared to extending the pavers. Clever solution Tamara!

This project created three distinct outdoor living spaces. Who wouldn’t want to lounge under the pergola with that fire table? Close the curtains and you can even enjoy the outdoor space during a rain shower. The dining area creates a wonderful location to linger and enjoy meals with family and friends, while the conversation area with an outdoor fireplace begs for late night family history tales and ghost stories. Take time to connect with those you love and let the stress of work, school, and life melt away.

Get the look.

Outdoor Belham Living Wicker Fire Pit Conversation Set - CRY971 Outdoor Belham Living Augusta Metal and All-Weather Wicker Patio Dining Set - PACA040 Landmann Aspen 25 in. Outdoor Fireplace - 28107

Outdoor fireplace room with al fresco dining

Leslie at My 100 Year Old Home has created a beautiful outdoor entertaining space. I might be a little partial to this example as my home is approximately 140-years old. This patio connects with me and hits close to my heart.

This outdoor space is absolutely charming and the farmhouse style is welcoming.

Beautiful outdoor fireplace conversation space and al fresco dining area

Get the look.

Outdoor Cambridge Casual West Lake Mahogany 7 Piece Patio Dining Set - HN-610379-CP Safavieh Leah Metal 4 Piece Outdoor Conversation Set - PAT5000A Melrose International 70526 Four Tier Outdoor Shelf - 70526DS

Secret corner in the woods

Gwen at The Makerista created this fairytale corner in her backyard. There is something magical about string lights hanging among the trees.

The trees and woodsy feel really help one connect with nature. What great use of a shady corner in the yard where it might be otherwise difficult to grow plants. The pavers provide a look similar to brick, which is a perfect compliment to greenery.

The outdoor bar cart provides a perfect storage spot for chocolate bars, graham crackers and marshmallows. This is the perfect setting for an evening of S’mores or even cocktails. Have a few blankets handy for cool evenings to extend your patio season.

fire pit conversation patio space with string lights, a garden stool and bar cart

Get the look.

Outdoor Norlyx 4 Piece Conversation Set with Cushion - 296130 Coral Coast Durango Extra Large 34 in. Bronze Fire Pit with FREE Cover - AD395R Outdoor Bardia Side Tray Table - PAT2004A


Do you have a favorite patio room or feature you are planning to incorporate into your yard? Please share your thoughts. We have some outdoor space that needs a little attention, so I am on the hunt for inspiration.

Perfect patios and outdoor entertaining spaces


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *