How to create an epic patio For us Canadians living in the East, the idea of summer seems doubtful. I say this only because it snowed in mid-April (ahem). However, I have faith that summer will arrive eventually and for that reason, let’s get the patio pimping to perfection. If you start planning now, once the heat shows up, you’ll be lounging outside with your favourite cocktail while your friends are scrambling to set up your patio.

BBQ

If you’ve read my posts, you’ll know that I love to BBQ. This summer will be all about throwing marinated chicken or steak on the grill—or if you are having a party, burger patties, hot dogs, or corn. Damn, so delicious! Depending on the size of your patio, there’s a good range of BBQs. If your space is tiny, you may want to opt for this Char-Broil Patio Bistro. It’s an electric grill, which eliminates the hassle of having to fill up your propane tank. And it’s compact and stylish, too.

 

If you want to invest in something bigger, check out this Char-Broil Performance four-burner gas grill. Essentially, you can cook up to 48 burgers at once. Who’s inviting me to their party?

Lounge Set

The deciding factors when furnishing your patio are space and purpose. Now, if your patio is ginormous and you want to live like the Kardashians (okay, maybe not quite), you will likely need a lounge set. This is also perfect for that party you’ll be inviting me to. Check out this Prograden Four-Piece Outdoor model. All of the pieces are weather proof and water resistant, but you’ll have to put a cover on them in winter. It has two lounge chairs, a love seat and a side table.

Extra Heat

 

Outdoor FireplaceAn add-on for the lounge set is an outdoor fireplace. Now we’re talking rich and famous. It’s propane powered so it’ll offer heat when needed. Picture this: the sun has gone down, but you still want to sit outside in the fresh air. Cozy up next to the fireplace either by yourself or with others. Drink wine and roast marshmallows. Not a bad life, eh?

Think your patio space will need extra heat? Consider adding an outdoor heater to the mix of furniture. This patio heater by Paramount can generate up to 46,000 BTUs of heating power.

Lounge Like A Boss

You should also think about your purpose. Are you using your patio for sunbathing, or do you have a pool that needs chairs? Since I plan on working on my tan, this lounging recliner from CorLiving is exactly what I’ll need.

Hammocks are one of those things that we all wish we had in our backyard but don’t. Sometimes, this is because we don’t have the trees to hang a single hammock.

Sunbrella Double Hammock with StandLuckily, hammocks also come with stands to give you that all-inclusive beach feel. This is one of those items that family members will fight over. So for selfish reasons, I would buy my own accompanied with a sign that says, “No Humans Allowed! The good part is that it is easy to assemble and take down. I know, this Vivere Sunbrella Double Hammock with stand is on your wish list too.

Booze By The Pool 

Let’s get back to sipping cocktails. When you want to lounge by the pool or bask in the sun, wouldn’t it be nice if you had someone to serve you fancy drinks? The next best thing is the Margaritaville Bahamas frozen concoction maker. Bam! Say hello to a lazy summer. In a few minutes, you’ll have 36 oz. of margarita. Here’s hoping you have friends to share it with.

Have an epic summer with an epic patio!

Leila Pejman
Leila Pejman is a producer and storyteller whose work encompasses content creation, media, social media, and communications, topped off with a passion for emerging technologies. On the domestic side, she's on a mission to create the best quinoa muffin recipe.