Edmonds Resident's Guide to Patio Design

Designing a patio in Edmonds means creating an outdoor space that works with the area's climate, your home's style, and how you want to use the space. A well-designed patio extends your living area outdoors and adds value to your property while standing up to Pacific Northwest weather conditions.

Start by thinking about how you'll use the patio. Will it be mainly for dining, relaxing, entertaining guests, or a combination of uses? The answer affects how large it should be and where you position it.

Location matters a lot. You want morning sun if you enjoy breakfast outside, or afternoon shade if you prefer evening gatherings. Consider how the patio connects to your house. The best patios create easy flow from indoor to outdoor spaces.

Size depends on your intended use. A small patio for two chairs needs about 25 to 30 square feet. A dining area for six people requires at least 100 square feet. Add more space if you want room for a grill, fire pit, or outdoor furniture groupings.

Think about drainage too. Edmonds gets plenty of rain, so your patio needs proper grading to move water away from your house. A slight slope, usually about one-quarter inch per foot, helps prevent standing water without being noticeable when you're using the space.

Privacy is another consideration. Depending on your yard and neighbors, you might want to position the patio where existing trees, fences, or your house provide natural screening. Many homeowners work with experienced contractors for patio design and installation in Edmonds to balance all these factors effectively.

Concrete is the most popular choice for Edmonds patios because it's durable, affordable, and versatile. It handles the wet climate well and can last for decades with minimal maintenance.

Plain concrete offers a clean, modern look and costs less than decorative options. It's practical and works with almost any home style. You can add texture to the surface to prevent slipping when wet, which is important in our rainy area.

Stamped concrete gives you the look of stone, brick, or tile at a lower cost. The pattern and color options are extensive. Stamped concrete requires sealing every few years to maintain its appearance and protect against moisture and staining.

Your contractor should explain the pros and cons of each option for your specific situation. They'll consider your budget, the slope of your yard, soil conditions, and how the patio will be used. The right material choice depends on balancing these factors with your aesthetic preferences.

Good design considers both form and function. Built-in seating or low walls around the edges can define the space and provide extra seating without taking up room for furniture.

Lighting extends the usability of your patio into evening hours. Plan for electrical outlets if you want to add string lights, lamps, or a space heater. These should be included during construction, as adding them later is more difficult and expensive.

Consider how you'll access the patio from different parts of your yard. Wide steps or multiple entry points make the space more inviting and easier to use. The transition between lawn and patio should be smooth and safe.

Fire features are popular in the Pacific Northwest. A fire pit or outdoor fireplace makes the patio usable during cooler months. If you're interested in this, plan for it during the design phase. Your contractor needs to account for proper clearances, heat-resistant materials, and any necessary gas lines or electrical connections. Professional concrete contractors in Edmonds can incorporate these features seamlessly into your patio design.

Edmonds' coastal location and hilly terrain create unique considerations for patio design. Many properties have slopes or views that influence the best placement and design approach.

If your yard slopes, you might need a retaining wall or terracing to create a level patio area. This adds complexity and cost but can result in a more dramatic and functional outdoor space. A good contractor will assess the grade and recommend the most practical solution.

The proximity to Puget Sound means salt air exposure for many Edmonds homes. While concrete holds up well to salt air, any metal elements like railings or furniture should be chosen with this in mind. Stainless steel or powder-coated metals resist corrosion better than untreated steel.

Wind can be a factor, especially in hillside or waterfront locations. Consider how prevailing winds move through your yard when positioning the patio and planning for wind screens like walls, plants, or fencing.

Many Edmonds homes have views of the Sound, mountains, or city. Your patio design should take advantage of these views while providing some shelter from weather. Sometimes the best view direction doesn't align with the best sun exposure, so you'll need to prioritize what matters most to you.

When you're ready to design and build your patio, contact Dunwell Concrete at (808) 633-0389. We understand Edmonds' unique geography and climate challenges, and we'll help you create a patio that's beautiful, functional, and built to last in Pacific Northwest conditions.