Author: Brian Maurer
Brian-Kyles’ President Brian Maurer and Executive Account Manager Kate Adams Discusses the Process and Timeline of Creating an Outdoor Living Space
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Patios and outdoor living spaces are excellent ways to get outside and enjoy the fresh air while relaxing with friends and family. They can be found in every neighborhood, whether in a home or commercial building. A patio is a great asset to any home, and it can also be an important design feature that works well in any setting. Whether your patio is small and cozy or large and a gathering spot for family and friends, it can be a great addition to your home. When you start the design process of your outdoor space, it’s important to know what you’re getting into. You need to think about the space you have to work with, what you want your patio to accomplish, and what kind of design will work best for your needs. Keep reading to learn more about patio design and build, and find out what you need to know.
Brian-Kyles “Landscapes of Distinction”, located in Northeast Ohio, specializes in patio design and build. Brian Maurer, President, and Kate Adams, Executive Account Manager of Brian-Kyles sat down to discuss the process from both a business and customer point of view. This 17-minute video answers a lot of questions you may have, including how to get started and how long the patio design-build process takes.
What to Consider Before Starting a Patio Design
One of the first things you’ll want to start thinking about the design is the size of your patio. You’ll need to figure out about how much space you have to work with, what shape or design you might want for your outdoor space, and any other factors that affect how much space you have for your patio. The best patio design plans can help you create a space that works well for any setting. You can find a variety of patio design plans online and in different books, including those that are designed specifically for homeowners.
Some of the most popular choices of patios today are paver patios and this could also include a complete outdoor structure featuring a fireplace, grill, and outdoor kitchen. Kate Adams of Brian-Kyles enjoys putting all of this together to make a unique outdoor living space.
The First Conversation with Brian-Kyles
Every design and build process begins with a conversation. “The in-person meeting solidifies what the client wants. The project takes shape when you meet with them. You learn any nuances they may have, do they have kids, do they have pets they need to let in and out, they want to be able to grill outside, or they want to make sure they have shade because it’s a newer development and all of their trees are missing. The best way to learn from a client and understand their needs and wants are is through an in-person meeting.” Kate Adams said.
Patio Design Project Inspiration
Drawing inspiration from books, magazines, or social media sites like Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram helps paint the picture of what your vision is for your outdoor living space. “I love it when a client has photos printed out. It doesn’t have to be the layout they’re looking for, but if they say hey I like the look of this paver or we love our neighbor's wall if you can take the time to walk four houses down they have this cool wing wall we like. If they have different elements they want to incorporate or try to incorporate I think that’s great.” Kate Adams said.
What to Look for in a Patio Design
When designing your patio, you’ll first want to think about what you want your patio to accomplish. Are you looking for a space that you can use to relax after work? Or are you looking to host neighborhood barbecues or other events? You’ll want to consider what your patio will be used for so you can decide how to create the space that works best for you. When you’re thinking about what you want your patio to accomplish, you’ll also want to think about what makes you happy. Are you looking for a space that you can chill out in with a book or just relax by yourself? Or do you want a space where you can host friends and family? Having a clear vision of what your patio will be used for will help you determine what type of design you want.
Budget for Your Project
Patio prices range greatly depending on how much or how little you want to be done. A lot of the larger projects not only have a patio, but they also have a covering that often includes an outdoor fireplace, outdoor kitchen, an outdoor TV, ceiling fans, heaters, electrical plugs, and more.
Kate Adams continued “I think it’s imperative a client is prepared to share with you their budget. At first, it may seem like you’re trying to get a number from them and you’re going to hit that number and that’s all. But if you’re telling me what you want and I can start giving a ballpark range it tends to guide them a little more towards adding and removing certain things from the design.”
Length of the Design-Build Process
Starting a conversation with a client, meeting with a client, designing a patio, ordering permits, and ordering materials takes a substantial amount of time. President of Brian-Kyles explains how long it would take to start building on a client’s property.
“If everyone knows exactly what they want and everything goes perfectly basically it could take us three to four months to draft up the drawing, to make sure it’s going to meet city approval, then take the working drawing and submit it to the city for permits.”
Conclusion
If you love being outside and want to create a space in your home where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors, a patio is a perfect place to do so. Brian-Kyles has been a trusted patio design-build construction company for more than 30 years in Northeast Ohio.
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