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A focal point is an important design element; it is a place where the eye naturally comes to rest. In a well-designed patio there is always a planned focal point, such as a large dining set, perhaps with a well-selected umbrella. But a patio's focal point could also be another interesting object or a landscape feature.
Examples of landscape features that can serve as a patio's focal point are an interesting pathway leading from the patio to an area beyond, a flower garden, a mature tree, or a dramatic view of the back lawn.
However, patio furniture is often used as a focal point. An outdoor dining table and chairs is often a natural focal point because of its size. If you intend to have a large outdoor dining set, there are several things to keep in mind.
Be conscious of the style of the table and chairs and if you have other patio furniture, try to keep styles consistent. If you have a very rustic patio, then a contemporary table and chairs may not go well together. It is always a good idea to have only one decor style.
Select the colors of the furniture and cushions with care. Visualize the furniture in the location where they will be used. The colors should be similar or complimentary to the surrounding area.
An umbrella is a good addition if it is appropriate. An umbrella in an area already covered may look odd. However, umbrellas usually work well in screened-in areas that are still exposed to direct sunlight. If you buy an umbrella separately from the table and chairs, make very sure the colors and patterns go well with each other as well as their surroundings.
A pair of chaise lounges with an umbrella could also be an interesting focal point. The umbrella would have its own stand. Of course, the cushions on the chaise lounges and the material of the umbrella would have to either match or be complimentary with each other.
A statue, fountain, or other ornament can be used as a focal point. However several things should be kept in mind. If using a statue, the statue and its size must be in keeping with its surroundings, the style of the house, and the decor of the patio. A large statue of the god Jupiter would probably not look well on a patio with, for example, western decor. But a statue of Venus in a traditional English garden setting would be a pleasing addition. A graceful statue would bring an air of serenity.
Size is important as you would not want to overpower the surrounding garden features with a statue that is too large. One of the most agreeable placements for a nicely sized statue within a garden setting is placement by a wall, such as a red brick wall, especially where there are plants, including climbing plants. Never place a statue in isolation, but in an area where it can become part of its surroundings.
These are but a few examples of possible focal points in a patio or garden setting. There are many other possibilities. The important thing is to include the focal point naturally within the patio or garden environment so that it blends in and be in harmony with its surroundings.
So you have broken down to get the deck box you have been looking at for quite a while. It seems to be the perfect place to store all your patio goodies, and serves as the quiet hiding place for anything you don't want to get dirty. You've looked online, and you've decided on the perfect style of wood to compliment the rest of your outdoor furniture. But before you hit the “purchase” button, you run into one minor problem: You realize that your box is going to clash with everything else you've purchased for the patio…including the deck itself.
This is not an uncommon problem for the patio furniture owner to have: you've purchased everything with careful and meticulous planning, but your deck box doesn't seem to quite fit the mold. You're not the only one who has faced this – many owners before you have hesitated on a good price, because it isn't the exact wood they want, or it isn't the perfect color or situation. Passing up a good price now because its not your dream deck box can cost you a lot of money in the long run.
The good news is that, because you have decided to purchase a deck box made out of wood, there's still a lot of hope. And with hope comes opportunity – the opportunity to do the right thing for the rest of your patio furniture, and make the right products come together to allow your deck box to fill the void between the rest of your furniture. All it takes is a little creativity, some know-how, and the want to make this the perfect addition to your home.
First, assess your current patio furniture. What state is it in right now? Is your outdoor furniture nice and clean, or is it not in the best of conditions? Is your furniture painted well, or is the paint starting to chip off already? Does the stain look more like a nightmare than a dream coat to protect and cover your investment? If its time to refinish your furnishings, why not start with your deck box? By starting with the latest piece of furniture, you are giving yourself a fresh palate to breathe new life into your deck furnishings.
Now, develop a plan of action you will take to tie in all of your patio furnishings to your deck box. Are you going to paint all of your furnishings to look the same, or are you going to stain your furnishings for a classic, rustic look? While both will all of your deck furniture a new level of protection, the aesthetic look will decide where you want to go with your furnishings. While a stain will give you the chance to give all of your furnishings a similar hue, painting your furnishings will give them a similar motif, allowing you to build on a theme.
Even though it is the new kid on the block, your deck box doesn't have to stand out as the sore thumb of your patio. With a little know how, some vision, and a great and creative plan, your box doesn't have to stand out sorely, but can be a welcome and wanted piece of furniture you will welcome for years to come.