Stepping outside onto a well-designed patio is one of the simplest ways to expand your living area, and this is especially true for a split level house. The natural elevation changes in this architectural style create unique opportunities for defining distinct outdoor rooms. By strategically placing patios at different levels, you can align specific spaces with their primary function, such as a sunny breakfast nook or an intimate dining area. This guide explores how to leverage the architecture of your home to create a cohesive and functional outdoor retreat.
Embracing the Architecture
The defining characteristic of a split level house is its staggered floor plan, which typically flows from a lower entry level up to a main living area and sometimes further to a bedroom level. Rather than fighting this layout, your patio design should work with it. The primary challenge is ensuring a safe and smooth transition between levels, which often involves the use of steps or gradual ramps. Thoughtful landscaping, such as berms or strategically placed planters, can help soften the edges of these transitions and integrate the hardscape into the existing topography.
Upper Level Oasis
For many homeowners, the main living room or family room opens directly to the upper level patio, making it the heart of the outdoor activity. This space is ideal for larger gatherings, dining, and lounging because it benefits from the best views and sunlight. When designing this area, prioritize comfortable seating arrangements that encourage conversation. A durable yet stylish material like composite decking or natural stone pairs well with the architecture of a split level house, providing a warm and inviting surface for barefoot entertaining.
Lower Level Retreat
The lower level patio, often found directly off a kitchen, dining room, or bedroom, offers a more secluded and intimate setting. This space is perfect for morning coffee away from the bustle of the main living area or for creating a cozy fire pit zone for cooler evenings. Because this area is typically more private and shielded from direct wind, it becomes an excellent sanctuary for relaxation. Installing a pergra or shade sail here can provide comfortable shade while maintaining an open-air feel.
Design Cohesion and Flow
To prevent the different levels from feeling like disconnected islands, it is crucial to establish a visual and material connection. Using the same type of flooring material on both the upper and lower patios creates a sense of continuity. You can also unify the space by repeating specific design elements, such as a particular color of outdoor rug, a consistent metal finish for lighting and hardware, or the same type of potted plants. This repetition tricks the eye into seeing one large, unified outdoor room rather than separate sections.
Functional Zone Ideas
Split level layouts naturally lend themselves to zoning. You might dedicate the upper level to active recreation like table tennis or yoga, while the lower level serves as a quiet reading nook or a dedicated space for grilling. This separation of function minimizes conflict and ensures that each area is optimized for its intended use. Consider installing a sliding glass door or bi-fold doors on the main level to make accessing the different zones effortless, regardless of the time of day.
Enhancing Ambiance
Lighting is the single most important element in extending the usability of your patios into the evening hours. For the upper level, overhead string lights or a modern chandelier can create a festive atmosphere for dinner parties. On the lower level, softer, ground-level lighting such as bistro lights hidden beneath planters or pathway lights will guide guests safely between the levels. The combination of task lighting and ambient glow ensures that your outdoor spaces feel just as welcoming after dark as they do in the afternoon.
Material Selection and Durability
Choosing the right materials is essential for ensuring your patios withstand the elements and maintain their beauty for years. Since these outdoor areas are exposed to sun, rain, and fluctuating temperatures, opt for high-performance materials. For flooring, consider options like dense hardwood composites, porcelain tile with a non-slip finish, or a variety of natural stone that is sealed properly. When selecting structural elements like stairs or railings, prioritize materials like powder-coated aluminum or sturdy hardwoods that offer both safety and long-term value.