Ever looked at your patio and wished it looked a bit more upscale? You’re not alone. Many of us would love an outdoor space that feels like an expensive retreat, but don’t know how to transform an area into a Pinterest-worthy oasis.
At SEQ Patio Group, we’re all about getting you great outdoor protection at an affordable price. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make your patio look like a million bucks! With a few tips, you’ll be relaxing in your new luxury lounge in no time.
Use Luxury Materials for Your Patio Flooring
Like most renovations, if you want something to look great, you may need to fork out a bit extra initially for luxury materials. You can always put new furniture on a patio, but it’s much harder to change what it’s made of!
If you’re going to spend extra cash anywhere, we recommend it being on the patio cover and the patio flooring. With those two bases covered, making the space look more expensive is as simple as the right furnishings. If the bones aren’t right from the get-go, you’re going to have to do a lot of extra work to get that luxurious appearance that you’re chasing.
Tile, stone and concrete are luxurious options that also stand up well to weather. Travertine, granite, and slate create a timeless look. If stone seems too pricey, consider concrete pavers – they offer a similar upscale effect for less.
Wood planks are another posh pick, just be sure to seal them to handle the elements. Ipe, redwood, and cedar are attractive, durable hardwoods suitable for patios. For a tropical vibe, bamboo boards are ideal.
Synthetic wood-look materials like composite and PVC decking provide the beauty of wood without the maintenance.
Don’t forget the finer details. Adding a stone or tile border around the edge of your patio helps achieve a custom built-in appearance. For extra flair, inset decorative tiles or contrasting wood pieces to create a mosaic or parquet pattern on your floor.
Choosing premium, long-lasting materials is worth the investment. Not only will your patio look like a million bucks, you’ll enjoy it for years without costly repairs or replacements. Now kick back in your lavish new outdoor living space and relax in style!
Incorporate Stylish and Modern Patio Furniture
A big mistake people make when decorating their patios is keeping them too empty. Lots of empty space can make your patio seem barren and unutilised. Some of the best patio layouts we’ve seen segment the area into several zones so it feels like a functional space.
To give your patio an upscale vibe, invest in some stylish patio furniture. Metal or wicker pieces in neutral tones are elegant and timeless.
Seating
Comfortable yet chic seating is key. Wicker armchairs or a loveseat provide a spot to lounge, while a bistro set is ideal for casual dining. For extra seating, add ottomans or stools that can double as side tables.
Tables
A glass-topped table is a posh choice and helps make a small space appear more open. Round tables are versatile and encourage conversation, while a square or rectangular table suits a patio used frequently for dining. Consider nesting tables that can be tucked away when not in use.
Accessorise
Don’t forget accents like luxurious outdoor rugs, pillows, throws and greenery. An outdoor rug helps define the space and cushions make seating more comfortable. Potted plants, flowers or greenery help connect the patio to nature.
With high-quality, coordinated furniture and chic accents that reflect your personal style, your patio will become an envy-inducing oasis you’ll want to escape to again and again. Creating an upscale patio retreat is easy when you know how to do it right. Now get out there and make the most of your space!
Opt For A Deluxe Patio Cover, Like the Stratco Pavilion
A premium patio cover can instantly transform your space into an upscale retreat. At SEQ Patio Group, our top-of-the-line patio cover is the Stratco Pavilion, which provides sturdy shelter while also enhancing your home’s architecture. As we mentioned before, if you’re going to pay a little extra for a luxurious patio, your best bets are on the patio itself and the flooring.
Stratco’s pavilion-style covers feature sleek, bold pillars and a noble, insulated roof. The structure has been engineered to minimise the number of columns required and maximise roof spans, giving a dramatic sense of openness and space.
With a pavilion, you’ll gain extra outdoor living space that allows you to entertain, dine al fresco or simply relax in comfort. When it comes to choosing a colour, go for a shade that complements your home’s exterior. Classic options like charcoal, beige or white will give a timeless, high-end look.
The Stratco Pavilion boasts larger columns and bulkheads and a distinctive edge gutter that casts a noble silhouette that compliments whatever house it’s put beside without overshadowing it.
Add Dramatic Lighting for Ambiance
Adding ambient lighting to your patio is an easy way to make it look and feel more high-end. Strategically placing light fixtures creates drama and a luxurious glow that will transform the space, especially in the evening.
Consider stringing bistro lights or Edison bulbs overhead and around the perimeter of the patio. The warm, flickering glow will make you feel like you’re in an upscale lounge or wine bar. For a tropical vibe, hang paper lanterns at different levels.
Insulated patio panels can be fitted with electrical fixtures like downlights, column lights and cooling features. Nothing screams ‘expensive’ more than features that make your life more comfortable and that’s exactly what an insulated patio built by SEQ Patio Group does.
Table and floor lamps are ideal for casting a soft glow over seating areas. Look for weather-resistant lamps and shades that can withstand humidity and rain. For a boutique hotel feel, choose lamps with gold, copper or black metal accents.
Adding dimmers, timers or smart controls to your patio lighting allows you to easily set the mood and ambience you want. Dim lighting for a relaxed evening or brighten for a festive gathering. Timers ensure all lighting is turned off before bed for safety and energy efficiency.
With dramatic and ambient lighting, your humble patio will be transformed into an alluring space for entertaining or a peaceful retreat for relaxation. The key is choosing a layered lighting design with a variety of fixtures at different heights for the most high-end, polished look. Your patio will be the envy of all who see its new evening glow.
Include Water Features and Fire Pits
Adding features like water fountains or fire pits to your patio can make it appear more high-end and luxurious. The soothing sounds of trickling water combined with the crackling of flames create an ambience of relaxation.
Include a Fountain or Water Feature
The gentle splashing of a fountain helps mask unwanted noise from neighbours or traffic. Choose a style that suits your patio’s decor, from rustic to modern. For a natural look, add some large stones and a few aquatic plants. The running water will also help with humidity and keep mosquitoes away.
For a small space, a tabletop fountain works well. Larger patios can incorporate a multi-tiered fountain as a central focal point. If you have room, a pond with a fountain and koi fish takes it to the next level. The key is to get the right size for your area so it’s proportional. Too large of a water feature may seem overpowering, while too small won’t have the desired effect.
Add a Fire Pit
On chilly evenings, a fire pit allows you to enjoy your patio longer into the night. The glow of the flames creates a warm ambience and place for gathering. For safety, choose a pit with mesh screening or a spark arrestor to prevent embers from escaping.
A wood-burning fire pit requires venting and may smoke, so check with local regulations regarding any restrictions. Gas fire places are more convenient since you just turn them on with the flip of a switch. They produce instant heat without the mess of ashes.
When it comes to actual fire, it’s best to keep these outdoors away from a patio roof. However, there are electric fireplaces and other heating options that can be installed under your patio cover to ensure a cozy and warm outdoor environment.
Landscaping and Gardening
The easiest way to make your patio area look more expensive is to stay on top of your landscaping. Freshly mown grass and trimmed hedges will instantly make your space feel more inviting. Most Aussies look after their own lawn, but a fresh mow before guests come over can make it seem like your patio is cared for by a team of landscape professionals.
Decorating your patio with greenery and flowers is an easy way to make it look more high-end. Adding natural touches gives a space a lush, peaceful feel that you’d expect to find in an expensive garden retreat.
Potted plants
Place potted plants, trees or bushes around the perimeter of your patio or in corners to create an enclosed, secret garden vibe. Consider palms, ferns, azaleas or bamboo. For extra height, use plant stands or overturned pots as pedestals. The key is to cluster several plants together for the greatest impact.
Hanging baskets
Install hanging baskets of flowers, succulents or vines along walls or railings. Petunias, geraniums and fuchsias bloom brightly in baskets while succulents like echeveria or string of pearls trail down attractively. For a whimsical look, group a few baskets at varying heights.
Garden accents
Add accessories like trellises, arbours, planters or statues to make your patio resemble a professionally designed space. An arched trellis covered in blooming vines makes a stunning focal point. Place a few planters along a wall or railing and fill them with flowers for an abundance of colour. For a dramatic touch, use large planters, urns or statues.
By incorporating natural elements, height, colour and greenery, you can transform an ordinary patio into an inviting garden oasis. Keep everything well pruned and regularly watered for the lushest, most expensive-looking result. With the right choices and combinations of plants and accents, your patio will become a favourite warm weather retreat.
If you want a patio that looks expensive, there’s no topping the Stratco Pavilion. Contact SEQ Patio Group today and we’ll run you through how much it will cost to bring your dream patio to life!
