The patio can be a great place to end one's day, gin and tonic in hand, watching the sun set. Or the moon rise, depending on how strong that drink was. Yet those with patios often overlook these outdoor spaces, not taking advantage of all the Cheever-esque potential. (I'm talking about the gin-based parties, not the self-loathing.) And that's a shame, because according to these vintage photos from the 40s-60s, the patio was meant to be the setting for entertaining, relaxing and general enjoyment.
Take a peek through these fabulous pictures, below, to see how your space could have looked back in the day.
1. It could've been a colorful illustration with achingly traditional gender roles.
Credit: Space Commander/Flickr
2. There could have been a very odd seating arrangement, complete with signage and a man grilling hot dogs.
Credit: Florida Memory/Flickr
3. There could have been a strange man peering into the yard.
Credit: OSU Special Collections & Archives/Flickr
4. There could have been a strange man taking pictures from around the side of your home.
Credit: OSU Special Collections & Archives/Flickr
5. There could have been people in raincoats, staring into an abyss. Plus, a butterfly chair.
Credit: OSU Special Collections & Archives/Flickr
6. There could have been an intentionally half-finished patio, with a single potted plant.
Credit: OSU Special Collections & Archives/Flickr
7. There could have been a charming patio set for two, next to a topiary that looks like a baby's stacking toy.
Credit: OSU Special Collections & Archives/Flickr
8. There could have been a modern water feature and a mysterious cliff.
Credit: OSU Special Collections & Archives/Flickr
9. There could have been a mix-and-match patio set, a strange family and a rotisserie.
Credit: Florida Memory/Flickr
10. There could have been a raucous party complete with party hats.
Credit: Allison Marchant/Flickr
I really want to live in the 10th photo. If you want to incorporate a little vintage style to your outdoor space, check out these inspiring photos.
