Introduction
A beautiful property is never fully complete without an equally beautiful patio!
Patios are a valuable extension of your living space, allowing you to soak in the sun, host gatherings, and relax with loved ones at your leisure. If your patio has seen better days (or has yet to be built), you’ve come to the right place for design inspiration!
In today’s blog, we are breaking down the most popular patio designs in Connecticut and Massachusetts, along with key benefits, add-on features, and localized recommendations.
Benefits of a Well-Designed Patio
As mentioned, patios are perfect for entertaining guests and getting your necessary dose of vitamin D. But what other advantages do they offer? A professionally designed patio can:
Boost Property Value
Patios are extremely attractive to potential buyers and can increase your property value by an average of 7 to 15%. The National Association of Realtors cited in 2023 that patios yield an impressive 95% return on investment for homeowners, demonstrating the undeniable reward of investing in your outdoor living.
Less Lawn Maintenance
Patios cover up a portion of your lawn with low-maintenance materials like concrete or stone. This eliminates the need for continuous mowing, seeding, and watering in that area.
Personalization and Beautification
Patios are highly customizable, available in a range of styles and materials to match the look of your property. They can be built to appear earthy and rustic, sleek and modern, or elegant and traditional, depending on your preference.
Better Water Management
Patios can save your home or business from water damage by directing water away from your foundation. They also assist with drainage, preventing your lawn or garden from becoming waterlogged.
Popular Patio Materials in CT & MA
1. Natural Stone & Bluestone Patios
Bluestone, a natural material comprised of sandstone or basalt, is one of the most common patio materials used by New England property owners. It comes in a variety of hues, including slate-toned blues, greys, browns, and purples. Because it is a wholly natural material, no two bluestone patios will look exactly alike. This is ideal for property owners who want an organic feel for their outdoor space.
Bluestone is also highly durable and versatile, complementing a variety of property styles and lasting up to 50 years when properly maintained.
- Natural Stone
While all bluestone patios are natural stone patios, not all natural stone patios are bluestone patios! Natural stone is used to describe a variety of materials, including granite, slate, limestone, sandstone, travertine, flagstone and, yes: bluestone
- Concrete Pavers
Concrete pavers resemble stone or brick at a fraction of the cost. Plus, they are much more durable than whole concrete patios, as they’re less susceptible to cracking during New England weather cycles. The space between pavers also offers better drainage and makes repairs simple since you can replace individual pavers as needed
- Brick
Brick is another popular patio material, delivering timeless tradition, cohesion, and incredible longevity. When cared for, brickwork can last from 75 to 100 years. Though red, brown, or rust shades are most common, brick patios can also be grey or tan!
- Gravel
Gravel is a great solution for those who want a casual and budget-friendly outdoor seating area with minimal upkeep. It’s easy to install, allows for excellent drainage, and blends effortlessly into textured landscapes.
Popular Patio Styles
New England Charm
Drawing inspiration from the region’s colonial roots, this patio style incorporates classic materials like bluestone and brick. These lend an elegant, stately feel that complements traditional architecture. Pair with wrought iron details, navy blue seating cushions, and hydrangeas for an iconic New England theme..
Minimalistic and Modern
For modern homes and businesses, minimalist pavers are an ideal fit. As a manufactured material, they offer uniform sizing and come in a wide range of neutral tones, such as charcoal gray, soft gray, or warm beige. Pair with sleek, geometric planters and furniture to solidify that clean, contemporary look.
Rustic and Cottage-Inspired
If you’re after a whimsical and charming ambience, natural stone is the way to go. Its varying shades, textures, and shapes contribute to an earthy feel that will help your patio blend into the surrounding landscape. Natural stone works especially well for rustic property types like cottages or farmhouses, and they pair beautifully with wood tones, native plantings, and wildflowers.
Key Features to Consider
Why stop with a simple patio when add-on features can make all the difference? Maximize style, comfort, and function with a range of customizable options:
- Seating walls & built-in benches: Add structure and convenience with permanent seating that blends seamlessly into your patio hardscape..
- Fire pits or outdoor fireplaces: Perfect for chilly nights and s’more-making.
- Lighting & pathway integration: Enhance safety and ambiance with integrated lighting.
- Shade structures (pergolas, umbrellas): Create relief from the sun during hot New England summers with stylish shade solutions.
- Drainage and grading: New England weather can be unpredictable! Thoughtful grading and drainage can help protect your patio and foundation from water damage and erosion.
Takeaways
A professionally-installed patio is a sure-fire way to add lasting beauty, function, and value to your property, but it’s crucial to understand what material will work best for you.
Beebe Landscape Services has over 30 years of experience and is proud to be East Windsor’s trusted source for professional patio design and installation. Our local team offers one-on-one consultations to create (or revamp) custom patios that align seamlessly with your style and budget.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and get started on your custom patio design project.