Patio Decorating Ideas | Tuscan Garden Theme

When you think of Tuscany, you definitely think of the outdoors. The rolling hills, the ocean, grape vines and olive trees, worn stone and large terracotta pots full of flowers. Tuscany is about bringing together old world style, romance and nature.

Alfresco is a term from the Italian language that means "in the fresh (air)". All over the world you can hear the phrase "dining alfresco" or in the open air. Creating your very own Tuscan garden retreat on your patio, deck or porch will give you your own piece of the Tuscan countryside.

image credit: Ceppicone

One thing there is usually not a lot of in a Tuscan style garden or patio area is grass. Stone, pavers, old brick and the like usually make up the majority of the space.

To incorporate stone into your own backyard Tuscan oasis, consider using landscaping pavers, an outdoor fireplace made of stone and/or stone columns. All of these will radiate the Tuscan feel you're after for your patio or deck area. You could build a short retaining wall of flagstone or other irregular stone to house a flowerbed or act as an entrance.

If that doesn't work for you, remember, concrete can be stained to give a lovely old world feel as well. If you are laying new concrete, consider having it stamped and stained to complement the Tuscan style.

Large stone planters are a must in a Tuscan garden. Terracotta, cement or even faux stone (for the look but not the weight) are wonderful for planting flowers, herbs, ivy and small shrubs for the garden area. 

Whether a wood element is brought in through plants and trees, trellises or through an arbor or pergola -- wood is definitely a needed element in the Tuscan garden patio.

Ivy and vines will love to grow up the walls, trellis or arbor and create natural shade as well as ambiance. Exposed beams of a pergola can be painted to look old -- or try using some re-claimed wood from old barns and buildings. They will have a rich patina already that will look wonderful in your Tuscan garden patio. 

Wood patio furniture is another way to bring in this element. There are lots of styles to choose from. Make sure your cushions are in the color scheme you have chosen to complete the look. If you already own wood patio furniture, consider getting new cushions in a color or print that will complement your decor. 

When you create a Tuscan garden patio, you want to be able to use it morning, noon and night. At night, you'll need some lighting that fits seamlessly with the theme. Light fixtures and candle holders can give you the lighting you need and are available in attractive designs that will complement the Tuscan feel you're going for. 

Try:

• Using aged bronze or Tuscan themed outdoor fixtures
• Get a fire pit you can arrange a cozy sitting area around. You'll enjoy it on cool evenings.
• Most dining in Tuscany is outside or "alfresco". Be sure to add a patio dining table to serve your family and guests Italian pasta and wine.
• Wrought iron is a popular choice for Tuscan patios, but cast aluminum and other metals can be just as ornate without the weight. 
• You can add modern conveniences to the old world style by being choosy about their design or form. You can get a Tuscan style chest that is actually a beverage cooler. 
• Use mirrors, tapestries, or wall art to decorate your Tuscan walls. Wrought iron mirrors or frames in wood or metal that have a weathered patina are a perfect fit.