Patio Upgrades That Make a Lasting Impression | Get Great Patios

If you have a patio, have you ever considered an upgrade? Of course, a patio upgrade wouldn’t just be to make your yard look pretty. There are practical benefits as well. It can increase your property’s value, expand your outdoor living space, enhance and increase your options for outdoor entertainment, and improve your overall health and wellness. After all, patios are flexible and can be mixed and matched with various hardscape features. In this article, we will recommend our favorite patio upgrades and how they can help benefit you personally. So, read on, and let’s find out what patio upgrades you should consider!

Get a Stone Sitting Wall for a Functional Upgrade for Your Patios

What is a Stone Sitting Wall?

A sitting wall, also known as a seat wall, is a type of low wall. It is designed to serve as a structural element and a seating area for your yard. It is usually between 18 – 21 inches high and 12 inches wide for comfortable seating. It can be constructed from either brick, concrete, or wood. The prices can vary depending on which materials you use, which company you go with if you install one or more, and how big you want it to be. A stone sitting wall is a versatile hardscape feature that would greatly upgrade your patio. This is especially true if you try integrating and matching it with your patio. For example, if you have a concrete patio, a concrete sitting wall can seamlessly integrate with it. They’ll also be able to help define different areas within a landscape by serving a dual purpose as a retaining wall. They’re both stylish and useful!

How Do You Install One?

If you want to install a stone sitting wall, choose the right location/s. You should select a sot that complements your outdoor space, like a garden, patio, or fire pit. Plan how tall, long, and wide you want it and tailor it to the personal needs of your yard. Before you build it, check with local building codes and permits to ensure you have permission to erect one. You’ll also need to ensure you have all the tools you need to make one, like stone clocks, landscape fabric, crushed stone or gravel, and or stone dust, mortar, and tools like a rubber mallet, level, shovel, stakes, mason’s line, and tamper.
You should prepare the site by marking the layout with stakes and mason’s line. This will keep you focused on where you want it to go as you build. Dig a trench about 1 foot deep and as wide as the base of your wall. Then, lay the landscape fabric down to line the trench and prevent soil from mixing with drainage material. You can fill the trench with 4-6 inches of crushed stone to help with drainage, then tamp down the gravel with a tamper and add an inch of sand dust to create a level surface for the stones. You can lay the stones down block by block and use the rubber mallet to keep the blocks in place. Laying down the stones in the wall may require specialized skills that come with experience. Once you’ve finished, you can backfill behind the wall with soil, clean off excess mortar, and inspect for uneven areas. We won’t lie, this is A LOT of work for one person to do, even 2-3 people. If you want professional advice or a capable crew, hire a landscaping company to help you with this monumental task. It’ll save you time and not risk the chances of you injuring or hurting yourself.

Install a Fire Pit to Help Create a Warm Space for Your Patios

The Benefits of a Fire Pit

Fire pits are one of the most popular patio upgrades you can get. To back up our point, the North American fire pits market size was estimated at $3.09b in 2024 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.6% from 2025 to 2030! They are one of the top choices for homeowners, and for good reason. They provide year-long entertainment for families and friends, create a warm and inviting atmosphere, are perfect for relaxation, can reduce stress levels for homeowners, extend our outdoor living season, provide interesting cooking and dining opportunities (who doesn’t love s’mores?), and increase your home’s value without any heavy maintenance requirements needed. So, if you often spend time in your outdoor space, whether spring, winter, summer, or fall, a fire pit is a great option. If you have gatherings where people love to huddle together, all the better reason to invest in a fire pit!

The Different Types of Fire Pits

One added benefit of fire pits is that there are so many varieties. Each of them is unique and comes with its special perks. For example, wood-burning fire pits are just like a traditional campfire, with their crackling sounds and smoky aroma lending themselves to a natural atmosphere that makes you feel deep in the wild woods. Propane fire pits are not as classy, but they are extremely convenient to use and can provide instant warmth. Gas fire pits are like propane but are easier on the wallet and more environmentally friendly than the other two options. Gas fuel fire pits are easily used, portable, and suitable for small spaces. However, they do generate less heat, so they are more for show, if anything.

Fire pits don’t have to be big, either. You can opt for less sizeable options if you have a small yard with limited space. Fire bowls are welcome if you want to add a touch of refinement to your modern outdoor space with its smooth contours and rounded body. Tabletop fire pits are great for small spaces like balconies or patios. Chimineas are another option since they provide excellent heat and a unique Mexican aesthetic. Lastly, steel sculpture fire pits can be customized with unique, artistic designs. As you can see, fire pits lend themselves well to almost every outdoor living area and can truly enhance the appearance and ambiance of your yard.

Outdoor Kitchens to Seamlessly Blend in with Your Patios

Why You Should Consider an Outdoor Kitchen

If you love entertaining outdoors, an outdoor kitchen is a game-changer for your patio. It brings both convenience and luxury, allowing you to prepare meals while staying engaged with guests. Imagine not having to run back and forth between your indoor kitchen and patio during gatherings—everything you need is right at your fingertips. Outdoor kitchens also significantly increase your home’s value by enhancing your outdoor living space. Whether you want to enjoy a quiet breakfast outside or host a lively barbecue, this upgrade creates an enjoyable and functional space that suits every occasion.

Another major advantage of an outdoor kitchen is the ability to cook in the open air, reducing indoor heat buildup during warmer months. With the right setup, you can grill, bake, and even smoke meats while enjoying the fresh air and the natural ambiance of your yard. Not to mention, an outdoor kitchen encourages healthier eating habits. With a grill or smoker readily available, preparing fresh, flavorful meals at home is easier than opting for takeout.

How to Integrate Your Outdoor Kitchen with Your Patio’s Style

When designing an outdoor kitchen, ensuring it blends seamlessly with your patio’s existing style is important. Start by selecting materials that complement your current hardscape elements. For example, if your patio is made of natural stone, consider using similar materials for your countertops and cabinetry to maintain a cohesive aesthetic. Stainless steel appliances offer a sleek, modern look, while brick or stonework can add a rustic, cozy feel. Functionality is just as crucial as aesthetics. Arrange your outdoor kitchen in a way that optimizes space while allowing for smooth movement. To create an efficient workflow, consider incorporating a built-in grill, prep station, sink, and mini fridge. If you love hosting, adding bar seating or a dining area nearby will allow guests to relax while you cook.

Lighting also plays a key role in creating an inviting atmosphere. String lights, recessed lighting, or lanterns can add warmth and visibility, making the space enjoyable even after the sun. Also, to maximize comfort, consider adding a pergola or shade structure to provide relief from the elements. Ultimately, an outdoor kitchen is an investment in lifestyle and home value. Whether you prefer a simple grill station or a fully equipped kitchen with a pizza oven, this patio upgrade offers versatility, practicality, and undeniable charm.

Conclusion

Upgrading your patio with stylish and functional features like a stone sitting wall, fire pit, or outdoor kitchen can transform your backyard into a welcoming retreat. These enhancements increase your home’s value and elevate your outdoor living experience. Whether you’re looking for a cozy space to relax, a warm gathering area for friends and family, or a fully equipped outdoor cooking station, there’s an upgrade that fits your needs. By thoughtfully integrating these elements into your patio design, you can create an inviting space that will be enjoyed for years.

Interested in making an outdoor space you love by upgrading your patio? We’ve got you covered. Here at Mastergrass, you can count on us for high-quality work, materials, and customer service! We aim to provide you with the best upgrades regarding your patios and service! With our dedicated team and years of experience, we guarantee we’ll help make your yard look better and function beyond your expectations. We raise the bar to rise above the competition and provide you with the high-caliber services you deserve. Contact us today for a free quote personalized to your unique needs and qualifications!