Front porches and back patios have joined forces. The result is the emergence of the “front yard patio.”

A front yard patio is inviting, which might herald a reversal of a 70 year trend towards hiding out in our houses and entertaining only in our backyards. This condition was a direct result of the age of the automobile, when garages gradually crept to the front of the house at the expense of our porches.

For those of us with garage-dominated or porch-less facades, the front yard patio is a welcome feature—a decorative, as well as functional entertaining space that says, “Hello.”

Front patios can look like almost anything, and be constructed of any material that can be made weed-free and level, including brick, stone, gravel, or wood. They can be attached to the home, wrapped around the front door, or set off on their own. And they can be enhanced by such things as:

•   A fire pit or heat lamps.
•   A small side fountain.
•   Low shrubs or low walls.
•   Tea lights or lanterns.Front patios are more than simple functional changes in our space and lifestyle. They’re also a smart move for home sellers as they gain traction with buyers who see them as inviting and desirable features that add value to the house.

For more great tips and interesting articles download Matt’s Home News February edition here:  February Newsletter – Matt

Best wishes,

Matt