5 Ways to Create an Eco-Friendly Patio

We often think about how to make the interiors of our homes more eco-friendly - from sustainable and non-toxic materials and textiles to systems for reuse. But the exterior of our homes offer a ton of opportunities to get a little greener - and not just literally. Especially when it comes to the backyard or garden area, where we can really “give back” to nature. Here are our favorite tips on how to make your patio more eco-friendly.

1. Use Eco-Friendly Materials

Like the interior, eco-friendly materials are a great place to start. However, it can be difficult to maintain or even build a patio that is 100% eco-friendly. The easiest way to do it is to hire a contractor who has a sustainability focus and plenty of experience specifically with patios. Look for zero emission construction when diving into your search for an expert. However researching certain materials and their durability is another great place to start and can also get you pretty far. Some materials to consider are smart windows, bamboo, adobe brick, cork, and cordwood are all beautiful and unique sustainable materials and products.

2. Upcycled Furniture

We’ve all seen more than enough blog posts or images of people giving second life to pallets, right? That’s because it can definitely be one of the easiest and most sustainable ways to create a patio - let alone affordable. In fact, it can essentially wind up free as most stores, dumpsters, and recycling centers will give these away for free to people who want them. You can get creative with the deconstruction - or, just add some soft outdoor cushions, and you’re done.

3. Choose Plants Carefully

When it comes to eco-friendly upgrades, nothing is more straightforward than adding plants. Aside from improving the air, bees need plants, especially flowers, not to mention birds, bugs, and turtles. Potted or planted in the ground are both great - but we always recommend adding a few fragrant flowers such as roses, honeysuckle, gardenias, or a lilac tree. These are perfect for adding a little more ambiance to a space by utilizing all of our senses.

4. Embrace Grass

Heard of grounding before? It’s a therapeutic technique that grounds or electrically reconnects you to the earth - and you do it by standing barefoot on the ground. It’s been known to help with anxiety, inflammation, pain, and depression. So why not dig our toes in some grass? Create a simple outdoor living space with a leveled area, some comfortable furniture, and some grass. Done. That’s really is all it takes sometimes. No grass needs to be destroyed, and the ground doesn’t get covered. However, this option may eventually require some upgrades on wear and tear in certain patches.

5. Get a Rain Collector

This tip is going to vary depending on where you live, as some laws state that this isn’t allowed. But, if possible, collecting rain water is a massive susty move that can make a huge difference long term. You could even get a rainwater barrel or even just start small with a watering can that could collect the water. Even a simple move like that is a great way to conserve a little extra water.