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When folks decide to move to the Hill Country, they’re not just looking for a house. They’re looking for a life where the outdoors plays a constant role. That’s why in most of the homes I build, the covered patio isn’t just an afterthought — it’s the second living room. I’ve seen more evenings spent on these patios than I can count, under the wide-open Texas sky, and I can tell you, they deserve the same design attention as any indoor space.

Too many builders think a six-foot overhang is enough to call it a patio. It’s not. A real Hill Country patio gives you room to breathe — space enough for lounging seats, a dining area, and maybe even an outdoor kitchen, all without tripping over each other. And it’s not just about size. Orientation is key. You want that patio facing where you get a good southeasterly breeze and the afternoon shade. That way, you’re not fried by the western sun come three o’clock.

Patios should connect with the house, not just be adjacent to it. I use sliding or accordion doors to create a seamless flow between the indoors and the out. You’ll also want practical touches like ceiling fans for the summer months and a fireplace for those cooler Hill Country evenings. Screening a section can help keep the bugs at bay, and proper lighting means the space is just as inviting after the sun goes down. From Boerne to Fredericksburg, I know what works because I’ve stood on those patios at sundown.

If you’re planning a Hill Country home and you want a real covered patio at the heart of it, call Turner directly at (210) 913-8000, any day of the week.