Flawless floors
There's a wealth of flooring options out there. Choose from decking, brick paving, slabs, gravel, galvanised aluminium, rubber... but don't get too carried away. Keep it subtle and remember to choose materials which match or enhance your property, for example reclaimed bricks look great with period properties. Gravel is inexpensive but not comfortable to walk on so bear that in mind if you like going barefoot! Metals, whilst undoubtedly contemporary, can give off a brilliant glare, so position with care. Good old-fashioned paving slabs are hard to beat, particularly if jazzed up with stunning plants and containers. See Laying a Patio for step-by-step advice on how it's done. To work out how many paving stones you'll need for your patio, try the Patio Calculator.

Style selector
Whether minimalist Zen area or wisteria-clad pergola, your patio reflects your style, so make it uniquely yours. Lighting and heating can transform a drab outdoor area into a magical evening retreat. Go hi-tech with fibre optics or simply hang outdoor fairy lights in the trees. Specialist underfloor heating will max out your budget, but a patio heater or chiminea will also make your patio inviting throughout the year. Be selective with furniture and only choose items you know you'll use. Wood furniture is more expensive than plastic but looks infinitely better.

Planting
Choosing plants suited to the plot is crucial, so don't buy a beautiful Magnolia if you're your patio is tiny. Think about plants which will add year-round interest and don't forget herbs such as lavender and rosemary which will release wonderful heady wafts across a patio. Climbers like Lonicera or jasmine will soften the edges of a pergola and are good at disguising a plain fence or wall. Pots and containers lend themselves well to patios and look great with plants of varying height and colour.

Get it right and your patio will reward you for years to come. Enjoy your garden!

For more advice and inspiration on improving the great outdoors take a look at Perk Up Your Patio, Your Own Space, Repairing Paths, Drives and Steps and Hot Patio Heaters.

For more information before you start, see the Marshalls website which is packed with tips and advice on revamping your garden. And don't forget to try the Patio Calculator to work out how many paving stones you'll need to create or extend your patio.