How to Decorate a Patio Enclosure
Julie Ackendorf has been a writer since 2007. She has contributed health, legal and parenting articles for various online publications. Ackendorf graduated from SUNY Empire State College, earning a Bachelor of Science in community and human services with a minor in child and adolescent development.
By: Julie Ackendorf, eHow Contributor
A patio is an outdoor area located directly next to a house. A patio may be open to the elements or enclosed. An enclosed patio is typically a room edition with three walls along the outside and one wall that connects directly to the house. An enclosed patio can be a terrific place to cool off on a hot summer night without being bitten by bugs. Make the patio even more pleasant with these simple decorating rules.
Instructions
1. Use the right lighting. Place track lighting along the wall that connects directly to the house. This will help make it easier to locate the door to the house when people are using the enclosed patio. Place a lamp in at least two corners to define the parameters of the room. Consider adding a string of
lights alone one edge of the top of the patio to create a festive air and sense of celebration.
2. Purchase comfortable seating. An enclosed patio is usually not a formal space. Buy two or three padded chaise lounges to provide a place to sit and rest one’s legs. Rattan and wicker are ideal base materials for the lounges because they add to the airy feel of the patio. Purchase additional seating, such as a small couch, to provide guests with a place to gather and talk.
3. Line the area with flooring. Continue the theme of informality of with flooring. An enclosed patio may be at least partially exposed to the elements. Look for durable materials that will not stain easily. Tile is cool on bare feet. Small scattered rugs can provide a welcome place to rest feet when watching a sunset or having a
drink.
4. Use appropriate window coverings. Many enclosed patios have large expanses of glass. Control the light that enters the room with curtains. Hang roll-up shades or miniblinds on the glass walls. This can help control the room’s temperature. Use light colored shades to help keep the room cool.
5. Place tables in the right places. People often eat and drink while sitting in an enclosed patio. Provide them with a place to rest their food and drinks
while sitting down. Place small glass topped tables next to sofas and chase lounges. Glass topped tables will help the room seem less crowded and more open. Make sure the corners do
not have sharp edges.
Links with ideas of pool cage decorations:
http://www.houzz.com/pool-cage
http://www.roomzaar.com/rate-my-space/pool-cage/sgallery.esi
http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20110905/article/110909785
http://www.ehow.com/list_5956100_florida-pool-cage-ideas.html
http://www.hgtv.com/decks-patios-porches-and-pools/index.html
http://www.sunset.com/garden/backyard-projects/how-to-decorate-a-deck-00400000066837/
http://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/deck/ideas/deck-makeovers/
