Stairs Rise to the Occasion
Stairs are essential ingredients in many patio ideas, but
they can also rise to the occasion as decorative features that tie various
elements together. Stairs can be fashioned out of the same paving material as
the patio floor but take on added interest with a different texture or pattern,
such as a poured concrete surface changing to rougher concrete block or brick
laid in a herringbone pattern changing to a straight run. Stairs often look
their best when their design combines the primary patio material with a
contrasting one, such as exposed aggregate teamed with wood or brick accents or
large formal flagstones softened with a random arrangement of small
smooth-surface rocks.
ŠPortland Cement Association
The rough-cut concrete blocks edging these patio steps provide a texturally
interesting contrast to the uniform, bricklike shape of the pavers on the floor.
Changing the width and depth of stairs can create
interesting effects, too. Vertical risers should remain a uniform height for
safety when climbing or descending, but the proportions of horizontal
treads -- the walking surface -- can be varied with great flexibility. Stairs might
broaden as they lead from the patio adjoining the house down to another area of
the yard. Or a short flight of standard-depth stairs might open to a series of
platformlike levels for a terraced appearance.
For more decorating ideas outside the home, see:
