Whether you enjoy entertaining, lounging by the pool, or chasing the kids around the yard, a patio should not only look fantastic but also fulfill your family's needs. Even though the best patio design may change depending on the region, designers agree that there are several common patio design aspects they usually avoid (some of which will possibly surprise you).

Designers advise avoiding these six patio elements for a setting that is both practical and fashionable.

Oversized Outdoor Patio Furniture Sets

The majority of designers surveyed stated that heavy furniture sets were their biggest pet peeve when asked which patio aspects they disliked the most.

We're referring to the identical sets of coffee tables, accent chairs, and sectionals sold in every department shop. In store displays, they might look more attractive and luxurious but when you actually place them in your home, they are bigger than what you’ve expected.

Not only do large outdoor patio furniture sets physically overpower a room, but they can also be inconvenient and provide little adaptability. Rather, smaller sets and modular furniture are more practical and aesthetically pleasant, according to designers.

According to Jodi Peterman, CEO and owner of Erin Elizabeth Designs, using smaller seating options in conjunction with built-in benches or well-placed accent chairs preserves the space's purposeful design while maintaining usefulness.

Rugs That Don't Resist Weather

When the weather warms up, it could be tempting to throw out any old rug on your patio, especially since a high-quality, weather-resistant rug can be exorbitant. Designers advise against placing rugs on your patio that aren't made to last the weather, though.

"It is crucial to get a long-lasting, all-weather rug that adds texture or color and ties everything together because these can look messy and wear out quickly," explains Elizabeth Vergara, CEO and founder of Vergara Homes.

Think about the money you'll save by purchasing high-quality rugs upfront rather than constantly replacing inferior ones.

The Use of String Lights For Lighting

Designers agree that good lighting doesn't just bring a room together, it also helps improve its functionality. However, many people still overlook having outdoor lighting on their patio.

If you want to maximize the look of your patio, adding string lights is an excellent start. Designer Chris Turner suggests not stopping there. He said that while string lights can significantly enhance a room, depending only on them can leave the room feeling unfinished.

In addition to string lights, think about adding pendant lights for your gazebo or covered patio, wall sconces on the side of the house, recessed lighting, or even a standing outdoor light fixture. It never hurts to have walkway lights surrounding the patio or along the pathways that lead to it.

Stamped Concrete

Although we value stamped concrete patios since they are inexpensive and practical, we can't hold it against designers who have other ideas. Designers naturally favor natural materials, which they aim to mimic, but it is not a perfect replacement.

According to Turner, "stamped concrete can crack over time and frequently looks artificial."

To create a patio space that a designer will approve, choose high-quality materials like large-format pavers or natural stone. These choices are more timeless and long-lasting in addition to being more aesthetically pleasing.

Conflicting Materials

Additionally, Turner disapproves of patios that combine too many various elements, including plastic, wood, and metal. This may result in a visually disorganized and unwelcoming area.

"It will look like a much more cohesive and inviting space if you can stick to one or two materials that complement the home's architecture," he says.

All-Weather Wicker At Low Prices

An inexpensive all-weather wicker patio furniture is not a good option, according to Peterman's opinion. Seemingly ubiquitous, this style of furniture is frequently less expensive than its metal and wooden counterparts. But in addition to seeming a little old, it is also short-lived.

According to her, "It was popular once, but low-quality versions fail quickly and show signs of aging after their first season."

"I choose powder-coated aluminum or natural teak, and sometimes concrete-wood combinations, when building an outdoor space because they improve with age instead of deteriorating," she says.