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Outdoor Entertaining
The number one top use of a patio is to entertain friends, family, and neighbours. Australia is blessed with a great climate, but whilst we all love to spend time outdoors, it isn't comfortable to sit in the sun for very long. A patio provides the perfect place to sit outside in the shade. Most people keep a selection of outdoor furniture in their patio area, from comfortable outdoor sofas and chairs to tables and dining sets.
With the addition of lighting, a television, and music, your patio is the best place to entertain guests in the summer. And if you buy a patio heater, you can continue partying well into the winter. A few extra blankets should protect you and your guests on chilly evenings.
Cooking
The next best use of a patio is for cooking food. Why use a kitchen when you can grill food on a BBQ outdoors? Many Australians turn their patio into an outdoor kitchen. It is surprisingly easy to do these days thanks to some very stylish and affordable outdoor kitchen appliances. If you decide to set up an outdoor kitchen, plan it carefully. As well as a BBQ, outdoor grill or pizza oven, you will need a food preparation area, a sink, storage cupboards, and perhaps a mini-fridge or cooler. Make sure you have enough space to cook and eat, and if space is tight, consider extending your patio.
Leisure Activities
Families often keep games and toys out on the patio, so the kids can play in the shade. Throw a rug and some cushions down so the kids are comfortable while the adults make the most of the chairs. A patio is also a great place to keep a pool table or games console. The noise will be less bothersome if you want some peace and quiet indoors. Add some lighting and you can use your patio well into the evening. You may also elect to suggest your other half takes apart his car engine on the patio rather than indoors on your kitchen table.
Relaxing
Not much beats chilling out on your patio when it's hot outdoors. Curling up with a good book and a cold beer in the shade of your patio is very relaxing, which is why millions of Australians use their patio for relaxation.
Cultivating Plants
Patios make excellent growing areas. There are many plants that thrive under cover of a patio, so if you have green fingers, start cultivating pot plants, herbs, fruit trees and vines, and veggies. Choose plants that prefer the shade and make sure you water them regularly.
Do you have any other suggestions for how to use a patio? Let us know!
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Source by John Chapman
