Exterior Trends

Stepping Out in Style

PATIOS AND PERGOLAS FOR LAKESIDE LIVING

by John C. Gill + photos provided by Bruce Ewing Landscaping

Beneath the midday sun, a sailboat drifts across the blue expanse, leaving in its wake a wave of shimmering reflection. In the distance, an osprey dives to the water and then, with wings extended, carries its catch toward a tree-lined shore. Homeowners across Kosciusko County enjoy such appealing views, often from an inviting vantage point.

Investing in a patio or a pergola brings charm and versatility to any lakeside property. These aesthetic and functional modifications enhance the appearance of a home’s exterior, and also provide a streamlined space for relaxing and entertaining by day or by night. And, as materials, styles, and options abound, homeowners may customize their designs and create outdoor spaces that range from conventional to extravagant. “What we have found is that folks want an outdoor patio as an extension of their indoor living space,” said Leslie Ewing Kitch, vice president of Bruce Ewing Landscaping in Fort Wayne. But constructing a patio, she added, “is more complicated than just putting some nice flagstones down and calling it a day.”

In northern Indiana, severe winters with alternating freezes and thaws can ruin an improperly laid patio, so professional installation is key. Since the job itself is labor intensive, with variable costs, homeowners must first decide how much to allocate financially to the project. Next, they will assess their outdoor lounging, dining, and entertaining preferences, which will determine the ideal patio dimensions to suit their needs.

Ewing Kitch said while pavers, concrete, stamped concrete, and other materials work well in the lake setting, “we especially love the look of flagstone.” This natural product may be laid in any number of patterns, with or without mortar between the stones, and does not require special care after installation. Multiple shades of flagstone, from tan to cobalt to charcoal, in a variety of cuts and sizes, guarantee a color scheme and layout to complement any lake home.

Endless Options

After selecting the base material for the patio, homeowners may then consider integrating a myriad of add-on features, including fireplaces and firepits, outdoor kitchens and grills, stereos and televisions, lighting schemes, and hot tubs. Waterfalls and infinity pools lend an elegant and tranquil atmosphere to any patio. The possibilities, Ewing Kitch indicated, are limited “only by imagination.” Creative persons, therefore, might embrace this opportunity and decorate their terraces with artwork, handicraft, or floral arrangements reflective of their talents or tastes.

Pergolas

Visually attractive yet functional, a pergola, when installed over the patio, redefines the overall space. This openair architectural feature filters sunlight when oriented properly, and also invites the lake breeze.

Typically, four posts support a series of cross beams and rafters that span the top of the structure, while the sides remain open. Lower-maintenance options include fiberglass and vinyl, but cedar pergolas appeal to homeowners who prefer a rustic appearance.

Durable, and resistant to insects, weather extremes, and decay, cedar pergolas may be sealed with wood stains to produce a desired finish, or left untreated for a natural look. The various sizes and configurations available promise a finished look that is both proportionate to the space, and stylish.

Like patios, pergolas will accommodate a variety of accessories, and homeowners routinely adorn their pillars and beams with hanging planters, climbing plants, and miniature string lights. But those who favor swanky decor might outfit a pergola with flowing, sheer curtains, upholstered couches, and a chandelier, igniting an ambiance reminiscent of a Gatsby-era garden party. Docking a classic Chris-Craft nearby reinforces the theme.

Just as a picturesque view enhances lake life, so too does savoring the scenery from the comfort of a custom designed patio or pergola.

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