Open, covered, circular, pavilion terrace with glass walls... We find out what are country annexes - classical and modern - and tell them how to equip them better.
It is the terrace, like nothing else, that reflects the French LʼArt de Vivre - the art of living, the ability to enjoy work and leisure, to enjoy any weather and day of the week. There are no bad days, there is a poorly arranged terrace.
1. Open terrace without fencing
The simplest view of the terraces, which is a wooden decking - the continuation of the house. The flooring itself can be made of wood, stone or tiles.
If you choose natural wood, be prepared for regular repairs and maintenance. The harder the wood, the more resistant it is to the whims of the weather and temperature changes. It is advisable to clean the wooden flooring with a brush and detergent solution annually, sand it and cover it with a special impregnation.
The minimalist architecture of the open terrace implies a modern design style. It will perfectly fit the elements of the decor of concrete and glass, solid furniture made of natural wood and textiles of ecological colors.
2. Open terrace with fencing
The wooden terrace with railing is a part of the classic image of a summer house. It is designed with special attention to the floor. One of the most popular finishing materials is decking (a mixture of sawdust and polymers). It looks beautiful and modern, it is convenient in work and at the same time does not rot and is not subject to temperature and humidity fluctuations.
Soft blankets, sun glare on the slightly worn floor, loaves and a rocking chair are attributes of an unobtrusive and cozy rustic style, which is perfect for decorating an open terrace with a fence. By the way, in the evenings on such a terrace looks great backlighting from homemade lamps.
3. Covered terrace
One of the most important elements of the terrace is the roof. The decorative roof does not protect from rain and wind but creates shade and visual limitations. The traditional roof protects against rain, snow, wind, and sun. There are also retractable roofs, stretch roofs, tent roofs. The choice of materials is not limited - wood, glass, fabric, plastic.
A decoration of the covered terrace will perfectly fit the swing-bedroom. Here you can also put a soft sofa for rest and reading or organize a dining area with a round table and classic Viennese chairs.
4. Glass extension
An excellent opportunity to enjoy nature in the most comfortable conditions: the glass annex is fully protected from the weather and at the same time completely open to the eye.
The glazed terrace is a unique find for the decorator, as it provides a great deal of space for creativity. The first thought that comes to mind is the living-dining room. An open wooden flooring, where you can organize a barbecue area and summer kitchen, is a great way to continue the covered terrace. Add flowers to the decor in massive clay pots, put a couple of vintage chairs and a comfortable sofa.
5. Roof terrace
Its design often resembles a miniature garden. Rooftops plant lawns, orchards, and spicy herbs. It is important to observe three basic conditions when setting up a roof terrace:
-The slope of the flat roof;
-Waterproofing system, drainage of rain and meltwater;
-Roof insulation.
Floors can be made of any material - wood, stone, tiles - and even lined with natural lawn.
The design style reflects the eco-concept of the building - natural materials, minimalistic decor, natural colors. On roofs also erect tents, equip verandas with mobile retractable roofs.
6. Poolside terrace
It can be absolutely different: miniature, which serves as a decorative frame, or spacious, multilevel, equipped with sunbeds and mini-bar. Traditional materials for floor decoration of such terrace - decking, tiles or stone.
Lagers and armchairs made of rattan are a great choice for such terraces. In beauty and practicality, they are not inferior to modern furniture made of artificial polymers. Don't forget about sun protection. It is most convenient to use folding textile umbrellas and canopies. Think of lighting - for safety reasons and, of course, beauty, the pool area should be well lit. Built-in lighting is a good choice for any design style.
7. Summer kitchen terrace
The dream of any dacha owner. Since in summer, in good weather, the whole family inevitably moves to the veranda, a small kitchen allows you to actually live on the street.
To equip the outdoor kitchen, it is enough to build an oven or layout a stone grill, spend on the terrace water and organize a small kitchen corner with a sink and work surface. It is best if the building is monolithic - made of brick or stone. The floor of the veranda can be laid with stone or tiles.
8. Pavilion terrace
You can use an existing building, such as a summer kitchen or a pergola, for example. The main elements of the pavilion are the roof, floors, and walls. The walls do not have to be deaf but can be made up of wild grapes, wooden or wrought iron mesh and shrubs.
The interior design of the pavilion always has a personal character and reflects the tastes of the owners of the house. A large round table made of wood and Viennese chairs are perfect for decorating the dining room. It is good if they are not new and slightly different shapes. If the pavilion serves for a secluded rest, put a comfortable sun lounger for reading and a miniature coffee table. The decor of the glazed pavilion will perfectly fit light curtains of natural shades.
9. Terrace around the house
The circular terrace is a traditional companion of chalet-style houses and stilts. It frames the house as if it were a deck and gives a special mood to the architecture.
In addition, extra space is always practical. On the one hand it is possible to place a summer kitchen and a barbecue, on the other hand, it is possible to arrange a dining room, with the third - to hang a hammock, and with the fourth - to make a game zone for children, to hang a swing or to put a sports complex. Such an extension combines the advantages of a traditional outdoor terrace, pavilion, outdoor kitchen, and covered veranda.
10. Balcony terrace
Like the circular terrace, it can frame the entire second floor of the house. On the contrary, it can be a miniature, more like a traditional balcony, or a multi-level roof terrace. An essential element of the terrace - the barrier of metal, glass or wood, depending on the style in which the house is made.
These balconies are often decorated with flowers and large fabric umbrellas are used as sun protection. Set up a small round table and a couple of chairs to enjoy your morning coffee and spend the evenings talking over a glass of wine.