How to Create a Cozy Terrace in a Country House: Top 10 Ideas

It is the terrace, more than anything else, that reflects the French L’Art de Vivre — the art of living, the ability to enjoy work and leisure, and find pleasure in any weather or day of the week. There are no bad days, only poorly designed terraces.

Open terrace without railing

The simplest form of a terrace is a wooden deck — an extension of the house. The deck can be made from wood, stone, or tiles.

If you choose natural wood, prepare for regular maintenance and care. The harder the wood, the more resilient it is to weather changes and temperature fluctuations. A wooden deck should be cleaned annually with a brush and cleaning solution, sanded, and coated with special preservative.

Minimalist architecture of an open terrace implies a modern style of decoration. Elements made from concrete and glass, solid furniture from natural wood, and textiles in eco-friendly colors fit perfectly into this design.

Open terrace with railing

A wooden terrace with railings is an essential part of a classic summer cottage look. When designing such a terrace, special attention should be paid to the floor. One of the most popular materials for flooring is decking (a mixture of wood shavings and polymers). It looks beautiful and modern, is easy to work with, and does not rot or react to temperature and humidity changes.

Soft throws, sunlight glinting on a slightly worn floor, climbing plants, and a rocking chair — these are elements of an unobtrusive and cozy rural style that fits perfectly on a covered terrace. By the way, evening lighting from DIY lanterns looks great on such a terrace.

Covered terrace

One of the most important elements of a terrace is the roof. A decorative roof does not provide protection from rain or wind, but it creates shade and visual boundaries. Traditional roofing protects against rain, snow, wind, and sun. There are also retractable roofs, tensioned roofs, and tent-style roofs. Material choices are not limited — wood, glass, fabric, plastic.

For decoration, a covered terrace is perfect for rocking chairs or benches. A soft sofa for relaxation and reading or an outdoor dining area with a round table and classic Venetian chairs can also be arranged.

Glass addition

A great way to enjoy nature in the most comfortable conditions: a glass addition is fully protected from weather and yet completely open to views.

A glazed terrace is a unique opportunity for decorators, as it offers great creative space. The first idea that comes to mind is a living room-dining area. It works well if the closed terrace continues with an open wooden deck where a barbecue and summer kitchen can be arranged. Add flowers in large clay pots, set up a couple of vintage chairs, and a comfortable sofa.

Roof terrace

Its design often resembles a miniature garden. Lawns are planted on rooftops, fruit gardens are established, and aromatic herbs are grown. When designing a rooftop terrace, it is essential to follow three main conditions:

• flat roof slope;
  
• waterproofing and drainage systems for rain and melting water;
  
• roof insulation.
  

Floors can be made from any material — wood, stone, tiles — or even covered with natural grass.

The design style reflects the eco-concept of the structure — natural materials, minimalist decoration, and natural colors. Shelters and verandas with mobile retractable roofs are also built on rooftops.

Poolside terrace

It can be absolutely different: miniature, serving as decorative framing, or spacious and multi-level, equipped with loungers and a mini-bar. Traditional materials for floor decoration include decking, tiles, or stone.

Reclining chairs and rattan armchairs are an excellent choice for such terraces. In terms of beauty and practicality, they are second to none among modern furniture made from artificial polymers. Don’t forget sun protection. It’s best to use foldable textile umbrellas and awnings. Plan the lighting — for safety and, of course, aesthetics, the pool area should be well lit. Built-in lighting is a good choice for any decor style.

Summer kitchen terrace

A dream for every gardener. Since in good weather the whole family inevitably moves to the veranda, a small kitchen allows one to effectively live outdoors.

To set up an outdoor kitchen, it’s enough to build a fireplace or lay a stone barbecue, connect water supply to the terrace, and organize a small kitchen corner with a sink and working surface. It’s best if the structure is monolithic — made of brick or stone. The veranda floor can be laid with stone or tiles.

Pavilion-style terrace

Existing structures such as a summer kitchen or gazebo can be used for the terrace. The key elements of a pavilion are the roof, floor, and walls. Walls do not have to be solid; they can be replaced with wild grapevines, wooden or wrought iron mesh, or shrubs.

The interior design of a pavilion always reflects personal taste and the preferences of the homeowners. For dining, a large round wooden table and Venetian chairs work perfectly. It’s ideal if they are not new and slightly varied in shape. If the pavilion is for quiet relaxation, a comfortable lounge chair and a small coffee table can be added. In the decor of a glazed pavilion, light natural-toned curtains look great.

Roundhouse terrace

A circular terrace is a traditional companion for shingle-style houses and structures built on pilings. It frames the house like a deck, giving a special atmosphere to the architecture.

Besides, additional space is always practical. On one side, a summer kitchen and barbecue can be placed; on the other — a dining area; on the third — a hammock; and on the fourth — a children’s play zone, swings, or a sports setup. Such an addition combines the advantages of a traditional open terrace, pavilion, outdoor kitchen, and covered veranda.

Balcony terrace

Just like the circular terrace, it can frame the entire second floor of a house. Or it can be small, more like a traditional balcony, or multi-level with access to the roof. A necessary element of such a terrace is a railing made of metal, glass, or wood depending on the style of the house.

These balconies are often adorned with flowers, and large fabric umbrellas are used for sun protection. Place a small round table and a couple of chairs to enjoy morning coffee and spend evenings in conversations over a glass of wine.

Photo on cover: Maria Kuzina's design

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