Hanging patterns of living and, particularly, the popularity of outdoor living has led to a structure (of various dimensions) located at the rear or side of the house taking the place of the old front porch. Throughout the eastern states it is called "terrace." In the southern states and in the west it is called "patio." It forms an intimate link between the house and garden and adds to the livability of both.

There are no fixed rules for the size, design, construction or even where a terrace or patio should be located. But it is usually attached to the house where it functions as another living room. It may be a covered structure or completely open. Its first requirement is privacy. Place it where it is shielded from the street or other distractions, where you can view the garden, lawn, trees or other pleasant sights.

The angle of the L-shaped house or the area between the double-L offers possibilities. If the line of the house at the selected location is unbroken, relate the terrace to a rear driveway side entrance or at any other point that gives the best use of both house and garden. Whether the structure be raised or kept at ground level depends upon the site itself. Unless the grade slopes away from the house at the location, keep it at ground level. It is usually the most inexpensive to construct and maintain.

What is important is the location with regard to sunlight. The needs in this factor will vary with the different parts of the country. In the south and in California, where the patio is used practically all year, it may face north. This gives protection from the mid-day sun. Placed facing south, the patio could be uncomfortable.

But over most of the country the best position is that which gives the maximum sunshine throughout the year. For this, a view facing south, southeast or southwest would be better. One of these will receive sunshine throughout winter, when the sun travels only from southeast to southwest. Summer shade, of course, is needed. Although this can be obtained from beach umbrellas, awnings and similar equipment, these do not temper the hot air.

A paved terrace or patio absorbs considerable heat and can become uncomfortably hot. Trees, vines, shrubs and grass are the best means for cooling the air as well as a smartly placed garden fountain. If the structure is small and you can only plant one tree, its position with regard to the sun's path must be selected. If set in the middle of the terrace or patio, shade is given only until shortly afternoon. By approximately 2 p.m., the shade has shifted, leaving the terrace exposed to the hot afternoon sun.