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 concept of L’Art de Vivre—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 fencing

The simplest type of terrace is a wooden deck—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. Wooden decks 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. Concrete and glass decor elements, solid furniture made from natural wood, and eco-friendly textile colors blend perfectly into this style.

Open terrace with fencing

A wooden terrace with railings is an essential part of a classic summer cottage look. When designing such a terrace, particular attention should be paid to the floor. One of the most popular materials for finishing 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 blankets, sunlight glinting on slightly worn floors, climbing plants, and a rocking chair—these are the elements of a subtle and cozy rural style that fits perfectly into an open terrace with fencing. 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 its roof. A decorative roof does not protect from rain or wind, but creates shade and visual boundaries. Traditional roofs provide protection from rain, snow, wind, and sun. There are also retractable and tensioned roofs, tent-style roofs. Material choices are not limited—wood, glass, fabric, plastic.

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

Glass addition

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

A glazed terrace is a great find for decorators, offering vast opportunities for creativity. The first idea that comes to mind is a living room-dining area. It works well if the continuation of the enclosed terrace is an open wooden deck where a barbecue and summer kitchen can be arranged. Add flowers in large clay pots, place vintage chairs, and a comfortable sofa.

Roof terrace

Its design often resembles a miniature garden. Lawns, fruit gardens, and aromatic herbs are planted on rooftops. When designing a roof terrace, it's important to observe three main conditions:

• slant of the flat roof;
  
• 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 decor, natural colors. Shelters and verandas with mobile retractable roofs can also be built on rooftops.

Poolside terrace

It can be absolutely different: miniature, serving as a decorative border, or spacious and multi-level with loungers and mini-bars. Traditional materials for flooring such a terrace include decking, tiles, or stone.

Recliners and chairs made from rattan are an excellent choice for such terraces. They are as beautiful and practical as modern furniture made from artificial polymers. Don’t forget sun protection. It’s more convenient to use foldable textile umbrellas and awnings. Plan the lighting—out of safety and aesthetics, the pool area should be well lit. Built-in lighting is a great 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 in summer, a small kitchen allows living outdoors.

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

Pavilion-style terrace

Existing structures like a summer kitchen or gazebo can be used for this purpose. The key elements of a pavilion are the roof, floors, and walls. Walls don’t have to be solid; they can be replaced by wild grapevines, wooden or wrought iron mesh, or shrubs.

The interior decoration of a pavilion always reflects personal taste and the owner's preferences. For dining, a large round wooden table and Venetian chairs work well. It’s nice if they’re not brand new and slightly different in shape. If the pavilion is used for quiet rest, a comfortable lounging chair and a small coffee table can be added. Light curtains in natural tones fit well into the decor of a glazed pavilion.

Round terrace around the house

A circular terrace is a traditional companion to log cabins and structures on piles. It frames the house like a deck, giving the architecture a special atmosphere.

Besides, additional space is always practical. On one side, a summer kitchen and barbecue can be placed; on the other—dining area; on the third—hanging hammocks; and on the fourth—play zones for children, swings, or a fitness area. Such an addition combines the advantages of traditional open terraces, pavilions, outdoor kitchens, and covered verandas.

Balcony terrace

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

Such balconies are often decorated 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 or spend evenings in conversations over a glass of wine.

Photo on the cover: jolaskora.com