Update Your Patio for 2007

It may be hard to consider when you look outside and see dead plants and snow on the ground; but now is actually the time to think about updating your patio for the coming warm weather and yes, warm weather will be here before you know it again.

If you haven't in the past, consider doing a little more entertaining outside this spring and summer. You only need a gathering spot and seating for starters. Consider the "usual" amount of people you have over; if it is just a few friends, seating for six or eight will be more than enough. Invest in a set of fold up stairs that will stay out of the way until needed if you have a few extra people over.

For some mood lighting, citronella tiki torches can do double duty for warding off pesky flying, biting insects as well as add a festive mood to your gathering. Additionally, you can add soft lighting touches such as round metal lanterns that hold a candle within and emit a soft gentle glow. Tall candles in hurricane glasses will also look wonderful placed at various places around your patio. Tall plants will lend an air of relaxation. Easy to grow plants that do well in containers include palms and yuccas. Even if you feel you have the brownest of thumbs when it comes to plants, if you can handle pouring water on the dirt the plant is potted in occasionally, you can keep either of those alive.

If you find that you have so much fun planning backyard parties throughout the spring and summer and you're not quite ready to call it a day to the entertaining season when the cooler nights of fall come calling, add a fire pit to your backyard. These are table-sized and have a concave place in the middle where you can put coals or wood and burn them. A protective screen goes over the top and it's a wonderful place to gather around with good friends and enjoy a cool night under the stars.
 posted by Allure Furniture Designs