Start With Use
Grill, dining table, seating for four, seating for twelve — how you'll use the patio drives everything else. Sketch it, even roughly.
Size the Patio
Furniture takes up more space than people expect. A dining table with chairs pulled out needs real clearance. Space for a grill needs clearance for opening the lid and stepping back.
Layout and Shape
Rectangular patios are simplest to pour and use furniture on. Curves add character but can complicate the finish and edging. Both are fine — the choice is aesthetic and functional.
Drainage
Slope water away from the house and off the patio surface. Planning slope during design is easier than fixing puddles later.
Finish
A broom finish is standard for outdoor patios because it provides traction. Other finishes are available, each with their own considerations.
Transitions
How the patio meets the house, a walkway, or the lawn matters for both drainage and appearance. Plan those junctions on paper before the pour.
Future Additions
If a cover, pergola, or outdoor kitchen might come later, mentioning that during planning helps the patio support those changes without rework.
Ready to talk about your project?
See Concrete Patios