Patios these days are becoming so much more than just a place to barbeque on the weekend... They're becoming more like outdoor living rooms. Now is the perfect time to convert your tired old concrete slab patio into a place where you can truly appreciate outdoor living at its finest.

Start by putting some effort into decorating and furnishing your patio using the latest dcor and furniture. Gone are the days of cookie-cutter patio furniture. Patio furniture really has morphed to fit the needs of the consumer.

Now days, you'll find plenty of styles beyond the basic table and chairs. Available in many stores are bars and bar stools, low chairs with cushions that are designed to be placed around an outdoor coffee table. Benches, luxurious loungers, and pillows made of special fabric that is made specifically to hold up to outdoor weather are popular additions to many patios.

Add to the atmosphere of your patio by applying some of the same decorating ideas you'd use inside your home. For example, you can purchase outdoor curtains made from weather friendly materials to provide privacy and create the perfect mood. Make your new outdoor living room even cozier by using a nice outdoor rug that'll allow you to kick off your shoes and relax.

Lighting makes a great impact on the overall feel of your patio. Companies are now making outdoor lamps that can be plugged in to an outdoor outlet making guests wonder if they are in your living room or on your patio. It's hard to beat the ambiance of candle light, but if you don't want to mess with the hassle of candles blowing or burning out, then these outdoor lamps might be perfect for you.

Need more ideas? Just think of all the other things that make your indoor living space so comfortable to you and be creative and figure out how you can apply the same concepts to your outdoor living area. You'll leave your guests wondering if they are in your living room or on your patio!