In Washington DC’s historic neighborhoods, homeowners with garden terraces and backyard patios enjoy a particular kind of comfort and privacy. With the right materials, design, and masonry contractor, even the most unattractive spaces can be transformed into appealing outdoor rooms.
Building brick patios that add outdoor living space to historic brick houses in DC are worthwhile investments. Each patio allows entertaining friends and family or enjoying quiet times in the backyard privacy afforded. Think about curling up with a good book or enjoying your coffee and paper in the fresh air of morning or intimate late evening dinners with friends and family.
Whether you are rebuilding an existing patio or are adding a new patio, you want it to be a durable, well-designed and attractive foundation for your outdoor living space. Consider these three elements of a successful patio project:
Patio Materials
Brick is a popular choice for patios in DC’s oldest and historic neighborhoods. In addition to its timeless elegance, it is also a durable and cost efficient design option. Clay bricks come in various styles and colors and can be laid in many different patterns. And when a patio needs repairs, brick restoration is a relatively simple process. In most cases, the existing brick can be re-used. For clients who want a different look, mosaic slate, as well as brick and stone combinations, are durable options that will maintain their integrity for many years with minimal maintenance.
Patio Design
How will you use your patio space? Rather than simply a place to spend time outdoors, a patio tends to become an outdoor center for living. Gardening, cooking, entertaining, and relaxing are some of the activities that will determine the style of your patio. Consider these design options:
- Multi-level layouts that incorporate steps
- Retaining walls for privacy
- Cut-outs for natural garden areas and walkways
- Patio covers and pergolas for shade
It is important to think about how your patio will be used before you consult with a contractor. When you visit friends and family pay attention to their patios – see what works, what doesn’t work and what you like.
Masonry Contractor
Finally, you want to select the right contractor for your project. As you interview masonry contractors in Washington DC, ask to see examples of the patios they have completed. Most will give you suggestions for what is possible for your space and budget. The time you spend in careful consideration and planning will ensure that your patio provides you with the outdoor living space you have always wanted.
Renaissance Development builds and restores patios using traditional materials – brick, stone, or concrete – that complement the 18th, 19th, and early 20th-century residences in the District’s oldest neighborhoods. Contact us for a free site visit and project quote.