Outdoor living space.......part 3

This series is for everyone, if you are creating a new patio, adding another ,or accessorizing what you have.
As in constructing a house we are creating from the ground up. This post will address the outdoor floor. Like the above image, most of our spaces are attached to the house

But you might opt to add an additional space, for intimate conversation, reading and for being in the garden versus only having one space from which all activity and viewing occurs. Let's explore a few of the options

GRASS. The least expensive option. The only downside is having to move the furniture in order to mow

With brick and limestone

Adore these checkerboard patterns. If the stones are set properly, you can mow over everything, including the stones

CONCRETE. Fairly standard, but with such creativity as above, concrete can become interesting. It can also be stained to blend with your exterior colors

DECKING. Adaptable and versatile.

See what I mean? Combined with blue stone it is stunning!

Mixed with stone and stained in a weathered gray

When crafted with tight joinery, it enables you to paint patterns. How classic is harlequin? Degree of difficulty? HIGH!

Stained in high gloss raises decking to another level

FLAGSTONE/LIMESTONE. Loosely spaced allows planting between the stones with 'steppables', low growing plants that can tolerate foot traffic, particularly popular areherbs that release their scent once stepped on

A "random" pattern, irregularly shaped stones

Mortared joints. Notice the color change? Depending on where you live the stones can take on different shades.

"Thermal" cut on all sides, including top and bottom, providing a very smooth surface

MANUFACTURED STONE. As in the thermal stone, these are flat and smooth

Manufactured stone with cobbles sunk in the ground and mortared. Love the softness of the plantings between the squares

In the vein of the above, manufactured brick. For the record, this is my least favorite. Looks well, manufactured. Preferring natural elements for the textural contrasts and individual color ways.

PEA GRAVEL. In the right setting this is my favorite; organic, inexpensive and interactive......the crunch underfoot

With brick

BRICK. Classic, diverse, terrific color ways.
                Some girls collect handbags, I collect brick, yes, I even have a brick broker! He scours the
                country seeking my love......rescued antique street bricks

Are you fond of a particular pattern? 

A herringbone pattern with bluestone

BLUESTONE. YES!!!  Thermal cut, 'blue select'

A section near our pool. This is called 'full range' bluestone, not as blue, not as expensive

TILE. Live in a warm climate? Tile is an interesting choice

If you have been following this series, we are creating a new outdoor space for Keri of the lovely, well written blog, http://www.ivyclad.com/
Issues;
-existing concrete is cracked
-cannot tolerate the manufactured brick edging.....YES!
-must remain the same size to not loose any lawn space
-the steps coming from her home are oddly configured. removing those steps and forming a rectilinear step pad that fills the entire insert and constructed of the same stone for the patio

Keri wrote a great post on her inspiration images, her preferences, hopes and dreams.........
The above image resonated with her and it does me too. It is the perfect look of limestone and works well with the color of her siding.

Now, I pride myself on listening to clients, really listening. However, I ask Keri to consider replacing the manufactured border with limestone, with a planting bed between the wall and the patio, providing a lovely softening effect. Keri, weigh in!

My hope is that you too found inspiration here. The next phase is the "ceiling"; trellises, sailcloth, patio umbrella's..........see you then
Debra