Picture the perfect day outdoors: Blue skies, a light breeze, low humidity and gentle warmth from the sun. How would you enjoy that picture perfect day? On your patio of course! These days, the patio is treated almost like another room in the home. And as such, it deserves the same consideration for décor. The patio can be an outdoor extension of a living area or kitchen. Or, it could be a special outdoor retreat for those times when you need to get away.

There is no real definition of a patio other than an outdoor space. This means the sky is the limit as to how you can decorate your patio. Some homes have a concrete slab right outside their back door. Others might have just a large open area in their yard that could be incorporated into a patio area with the right materials. All you need is a basic plan for your patio and you could start defining this outdoor space. Below are ten tips that can be used to decorate your patio:

1. Stain or paint – If you have a concrete slab in your patio area, one way to jazz it up is through concrete staining or painting. There are a variety of techniques these days for concrete that are easy for do-it-yourselfers. In addition, with the use of paints and stencils, you could create a mural for the feet which would make for a great focal point for your patio.

2. Build a Platform to create a patio – You can create your own patio “platform” from a variety of materials. From wood decking to stone pavers and bricks, there are a variety of options to create and decorate this outdoor living area.

3. Shade issues – If your patio area is not protected from the sun, you need something to provide some shade. Patio umbrellas add a summery flair to your area. Awnings or a bamboo privacy fence might also work. Then there are the natural shade options – trees or shrubs.

4. Look alive – If your patio area seems a bit stark, add some flowers and greenery into the mix. Container gardens are very popular these days and you can plant a variety of things – both ornamental and useful. Pots of herbs like rosemary or mint would not only brighten the space with green color and scents, but you could also pick some whenever you desired for cooking!

5. Fashionable patio furniture – Now you don’t have to run off a buy a full suite of patio furniture like an umbrella table, chairs and lounges. This could be something simple like a cedar glider or bench or maybe an Adirondack chair and stool. Depending on the look you are going for, these pieces could be painted or stained to bring out the wood grain.

6. Accessorize - Add some great cushions or throw pillows to benches and chairs and you have a cozy seating area for your patio. Hanging wind chimes, an old-fashioned barometer or even hanging plants can really pull together your patio’s look.

7. Light up – You need some light for those dark evenings when you want to enjoy your patio. Luminaries, tiki torches, solar-charged lights, hanging lanterns … all are viable choices of lighting. Of course, pick something that will complement the look or theme you desire.

8. Landscape – Sometimes the look of your patio depends greatly on the landscaping around it. Ornamental grasses and bushes are popular as are rock gardens. Use materials natural to your area as a guide.

9. Water accessories – The trickling of water can be soothing. Therefore, water fountains can be a great decorative element for your patio. There are tabletop models as well as those tall stand-alones that look like a wall of water.

10. Heating elements – If you happen to live in a mild or cool climate, fire pits, heaters or chimineas add a warmth (literally) to your patio décor. If you have a southwestern or Old West type of theme, the chimineas are the perfect choice.