By Pocyline Karani

Do you own a sizeable space either at the back or front of your house? Are you at a loss on what to do with it? Here is an idea. Why not create a veranda patio? This will turn the space into a great place to lounge and commune with friends and family while enjoying the outside fresh air.

Plants and flowers do not only decorate a patio but also create a focal point and enhance privacy. Photo: Pocyline Karani/ Standard

A patio allows for ultimate comfort and versatility. When standing in the garden, the patio can be used for meetings with visitors you do not want to allow into the private confines of your house. Place a couch, recliner, table and chairs to make the patio ideal for relaxing. It can be the place where you take time off to read a book, study, share a cup of tea with friends or just take a nap.

Natural surroundings

READ MORE

 KenGen profit jumps 35 per cent to Sh6.8b on higher power output

 Japan, Canada give Sh2.8b for medical oxygen factories

 Power sector on edge as new plants dry up amid surging demand

 Fact-check: What we know about Kindiki's swearing-in

Decorating a patio has the potential to be much more exciting that decorating any room in the house mainly because you have the beauty of your natural surroundings to play around with. A patio built in the open may require covering on top to protect you and your guests from the elements. An umbrella is one way to do this or you may design a pergola.

When purchasing furniture for the patio, ensure they are made from water or rust-proof material. Treat wooden pieces with waterproof and scratch proof sealants. Should your seats requires cushioning, the best material for this is vinyl as it is reliable and durable.

Furniture made from water and rust-proof material is appropriate for the patio. Photos: Martin Mukangu/Courtesy of Windsor Luxury Homes

Plants do well in patios so consider a collection of greenery and flowering in different sizes. Arrange them aesthetically so they are pleasant to the eye. Consider the size of your space to determine what plants and flowers to have.

If the patio is small exercise greater restrain to achieve a cohesive look. Use various medium-sized pots with hanging planters or tiered plant stands. Choose luscious green plants and vibrant flowers that are appropriate for the amount of sunlight or shade available.

Remember, regardless of the size of the patio, plants are used for the same purpose, which is to decorate, create a focal point, enhance privacy, block off unwanted views and form a shade. Spice it up by using unusual, unique pots such as old boots made from clay. Alternatively, you could section off the veranda with trellis and plant box holders filled with climbing plants.

The ground of your veranda can either be stone, concrete or brick. If you opt for wood, teak is most ideal because is hardly absorbs water and has a longer lifespan. A rug helps haze the edges between the indoors and outside where the patio stands. Furthermore, the colour of the rug may help to play off strong foliage and flower tones.

Serene fountain

You can also decorate your patio with lights. Buy special lights to add a dramatic flare to your space. For a wild or traditional African feel, suspend a few hanging lanterns from the porch. This will give the patio an instant exotic touch.

A serene fountain is a fantastic accessory. Others include chimneys and an inbuilt miniature bar. Give your patio a theme and decorate accordingly. You could also hang a hammock for an even more dramatic adventure.