How To Build A Sunken Outdoor Seating Area

Sunken outdoor seating areas are a great way to add a touch of luxury and style to your backyard. They're perfect for entertaining guests, relaxing with a good book, or simply enjoying the outdoors. But building a sunken outdoor seating area can seem like a daunting task. However, it's actually easier than you think.

In this article, we'll walk you through the steps on how to build a sunken outdoor seating area. We'll cover everything from planning and excavation to construction and finishing. So whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned DIYer, we've got you covered.

Planning Your Sunken Outdoor Seating Area

The first step in building a sunken outdoor seating area is to plan your project. This includes determining the size and shape of your seating area, as well as the materials you'll need.

When it comes to size, you'll want to make sure your seating area is large enough to accommodate the number of people you'll typically be entertaining. However, you don't want it to be so large that it overwhelms your backyard.

As for shape, you have a lot of options. You can choose a traditional rectangular shape, a circular shape, or even an L-shape. The shape you choose will depend on the layout of your backyard and your personal preferences.

Once you've decided on the size and shape of your seating area, you'll need to choose the materials you'll use. There are a variety of materials that you can use, including wood, concrete, and stone. The material you choose will depend on your budget and your personal preferences.

Excavating Your Sunken Outdoor Seating Area

Once you've planned your project, it's time to start excavating your sunken outdoor seating area. This is the most physically demanding part of the project, but it's also the most important.

To excavate your seating area, you'll need to remove the sod and topsoil. You'll then need to dig down to the depth of your seating area. The depth of your seating area will depend on the height of your seating and the thickness of your materials.

Once you've excavated your seating area, you'll need to level the bottom and compact the soil. This will help to prevent your seating area from sinking over time.

Constructing Your Sunken Outdoor Seating Area

Now that you've excavated your seating area, it's time to start constructing it. The construction process will vary depending on the materials you're using.

If you're using wood, you'll need to build a frame for your seating area. You can then attach the wood to the frame to create the seats and backrest.

If you're using concrete, you'll need to pour a concrete slab for your seating area. You can then add a layer of concrete pavers or tiles to create the seating surface.

If you're using stone, you'll need to lay the stones in a pattern to create the seating area. You can then fill the gaps between the stones with mortar or grout.

Finishing Your Sunken Outdoor Seating Area

Once you've constructed your sunken outdoor seating area, it's time to finish it. This includes adding any finishing touches, such as cushions, pillows, and throws.

You can also add lighting to your seating area to make it more inviting at night. You can use string lights, lanterns, or even solar lights.

With a little planning and effort, you can build a sunken outdoor seating area that will be the envy of your friends and family. So what are you waiting for? Get started today!