If your garden treasure patio is a much larger area, you can find additional novelty items to enhance the atmosphere of your garden treasure patio. You may want to turn a small space into a kitchen or grilling area for those outdoor barbecues. For the warmer months, a small fountain gives the garden treasure patio a peaceful ambience. The soothing sound of running water will aid in relaxing you while you read or just rejuvenate yourself from a hard day at work. A fountain will not be a distraction when entertaining guests, instead would add a measure of character to your garden treasure patio. For the cooler months, a fireplace would be another highlight to your garden treasure patio. The warmth of a fire and watching the glow of burning embers is as peaceful and soothing as the fountain in the warmer months.

Your garden treasure patio might be in need of shading from the scorching sun during the hot summer months or maybe to protect you and your guests from a quiet falling rain in the spring. Then you will want to check into awnings, canopies, or other structures made for the purpose of adding cover. An umbrella works for a small space. If, however you are looking to cover a much larger region, you will need a much larger cover. These coverings come in several different sizes and construction. You will want to find what works best for you in your situation.

A whole article dedicated to deck railings is hardly glamorous, but there’s more to them than you think. Not only do railings reflect the style of the home, but they are required safety features.

Here are some tips for deciding what type of deck railing design best suits your situation.

Top Rails
- Wood top rails (usually 2×4 or 2×6 lumber), can be installed flat or on edge.
- Top rails installed over top of the vertical posts result in a stronger railing.
- Top rails installed between posts are not as strong. The posts must withstand the most of any force.
- A smooth and continuous top rail over the post tops defines the perimeter of a deck.

Posts
- Posts can be mounted on the exterior of the rim joist (posts will protrude above the top rail) or inside the rim joist. A rim joist is the 2×8 lumber used on the sides and ends of a deck.
- Posts that protrude above the top rail at each section draw the eye toward them.
- Detail posts by adding a cap or make every other post larger or wider.

Post Caps
- Post caps provide a professional look to posts that protrude about the top rail. They are available in many styles, from simple to ornamental.
- Lighted post caps provide added safety and decoration at night.

Balusters
- Balusters (also called pickets or spindles) are the vertical members between the top and bottom rails.
- Wide balusters create a more confined space ideal for obscuring a view or for reflecting the heavier structure of the home itself.
- Thin balusters create openness and accentuate a view. Alternate narrow and wide balusters to create an interesting visual contrast.
- Aluminum, steel or wrought iron balusters are less obtrusive. The inherent strength of the material means they can be thinner and provide a more open view.
- Baluster spacing should not exceed 4” from inside edge to inside edge, but check with local building codes to be sure. In addition, most building codes prohibit horizontal balusters because they facilitate climbing.

Panels
- Glass panels capitalize on views.
- Semi-transparent panels provide privacy while allowing for maximum light.
- Louvered panels between posts are a very contemporary look.
- Side panels with matching siding stucco provide privacy.