Every angler knows that feeling – you come back from a few days on the river, tired but happy, and all you want is to sit outside with a coffee and your memories. A patio or garden is a natural extension of our passion for spending time outdoors. It’s worth making sure that space feels just as good as the bank of your favourite river.
Before you start thinking about plants and accessories, invest in elements that will last for years without constant maintenance. Weather conditions can be harsh — freezing winters, rainy autumns and scorching summers are a test for any material.
When I was planning my patio, I quickly ruled out wood – it looks beautiful for the first season, but then it needs oiling, sanding and constant attention. Plastic planters were out immediately — after a year in the sun they go dull and brittle. I went with concrete planters and they turned out to be the best choice. Architectural concrete handles any weather, doesn’t crack in frost and looks the same year after year. The weight is actually a bonus – even strong wind won’t tip them over, and anyone who fishes in the mountains knows how fierce the gusts can be.
I picked several sizes – large rectangular ones along the railing as a natural screen from the neighbours, smaller square ones by the entrance. Grey concrete paired with green plants creates a calm, modern atmosphere without overdoing it.
Ornamental grasses work best in large planters – miscanthus, fountain grass, blue fescue. They look striking all year round and take on beautiful colours in autumn. Smaller planters got herbs: mint, thyme, rosemary and basil. In summer you’ve got fresh seasoning for your catch straight from the patio – you won’t find a better combination of fishing and cooking.
If your patio is partially shaded, ferns and hostas are a great choice. They’re incredibly low-maintenance and look lush throughout the season. Just make sure the planters have proper drainage – architectural concrete handles moisture well, but standing water is a recipe for root rot.
After the fishing season, I spend my evenings on the patio tying flies for the next trip. Good lighting makes a huge difference. I’m not talking about floodlights – more like LED spot lights along the railing or solar lamps tucked into the planters. Warm light, a comfortable chair, a small table for tying materials and coffee. That’s all you need.
If you have the space, it’s worth setting up a small permanent workstation. Tying flies outdoors is a completely different pleasure compared to sitting in the basement or garage. In summer, add the sounds of the evening – crickets, birds, the rustle of wind through the ornamental grasses. It sounds simple, but it really works.
You don’t need a twelve-seat garden set on your patio. A comfortable chair, maybe two, a solid table and somewhere to put your gear. Aluminium and synthetic rattan work best – they’re light, don’t rust and can stay outside. Wooden furniture looks atmospheric but it’s the same story as with planters – maintenance every season.
Everything looks best when you stick to one colour palette. Grey architectural concrete planters from Betonova, graphite furniture, green plants and natural wood on the floor. Simple, calm, no clutter. Your patio should be a place to rest, not a showroom.
A well-designed outdoor space means your connection with nature doesn’t end at the river. You don’t need a big budget right away – start with solid base elements that will serve you for years. Planters, a few plants, good lighting. The rest you’ll figure out over time.
The most important thing is that your patio is a place you want to come back to – just like your favourite fishing spot.
Tight lines!
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