Hey there, fellow patio enthusiasts! After recently moving in, this client decided it was time to upgrade her baron patio. Here’s how we took her patio from drab to fab. Now she has a personal oasis where she can keep one eye on her young children in the back yard while she keeps the other on her very needy succulent plants.

Scope of Work: Do it up package

Consultation: First, we collaborated with the homeowner to understand what their goals were for the space. How did they envision using the space? What ideas did they have? What timeline and budget? They wanted to create a floor plan layout that balanced lounging, dining, and playing while maximizing visual appeal.

Goals:

• Needed lounging space for 8

• Needed dining space for 10

• Needed to relocate trash bins

• Allow foot traffic to easily access back yard

• Resemble zen vibe of local coffee shop

• Respite from hot North Carolina sun

Design: Using their goals as a guide and our creativity as a driver we created a layout that optimized the large space. We sourced the furniture and decor to make their patio dreams come true. After 1 revision, they were ready to move forward.

Installation: With the “do it up” package, the customer is responsible for installation. Luckily, this customer was particularly handy and was able to execute our vision on their own. We left them with implementation suggestions along with a sourcing list including a pergola, pergola accessories, sun shades, string lights, couch, loveseat, coffee table, dining table, dining chairs, and a few plants. They ordered, assembled, and installed everything.

Challenges:

1. Large Space: We needed to section off the area into two distinct use cases. One area for dining and one for lounging/entertaining.

2. Traffic jams: The layout needed to optimize flow in and out of the house, to and from the back yard, and leave enough space to wheel trash cans.

3. Comfort: It's location in Durham lends to hot summers. To make the space feel comfortable year-round we included a design for a fan, retractable sun shades, and a mister.

Results:

1. Picnic potential: The space now has dining capacity for 10 as well as sofa seating for 7. With the party lights we created a space that is perfect for daytime or nighttime events.

2. Oasis coffee shop vibes: The plant combinations make the patio feel full which evokes a cozy feel, even outside. Now the homeowner has the option for a little outdoor work-from-home action. We promise this isn’t a pre-loaded Zoom background.

3. Made in the shade: So long lawn chair. We’ll be kicking our feet up from this plush loveseat as we watch the kids frolic through the yard - cold beer in hand, under the shade, fan on. Now this is parenting.