Ah, Arizona summers. If you know, you know.
There’s no denying that desert life gives us the best winters in the country. But the flip side? Triple-digit temperatures that make even a quick walk to the mailbox feel like a survival sport. Still, if you’re like us, the heat won’t stop you from enjoying your outdoor space—at least not when the misters are on, there’s shade overhead, and the temperatures stays below 105.
At Blue Copper Design, we believe good design should work for every body. That includes your outdoor spaces. So as we gear up for another sun-soaked season, we’re sharing our best tips to create an accessible patio that everyone can enjoy—because accessible design doesn’t stop at the patio door.
Step One: Make Sure Everyone Can Get Outside
This might sound obvious, but it’s worth saying—before anyone can enjoy the patio, they have to be able to reach it safely and independently. Let’s make this summer enjoyable with a beautiful accessible patio.
Many Arizona homes are built with small steps or a raised threshold at the door leading to the patio. While that might not seem like a big deal to most, for someone using a wheelchair or walker, it can be a major barrier.
If your home has a step-down or elevated threshold, a ramp is a must. You’ve got options:
- Permanent ramps can be made from concrete, wood, brick, or even matching pavers to blend into your patio style.
- Temporary or portable ramps are a budget-friendly, flexible solution. Foldable ramps are available on Amazon or through medical supply sites and work great for renters or vacation homes.
The gold standard? Zero-threshold entries. These smooth, step-free transitions between indoors and out make movement seamless for everyone, including those using mobility devices, strollers, or even just carrying a tray of snacks outside. When you’re designing from scratch or renovating, this is a feature that should absolutely be on your wishlist.
Upgrade Your Pathways and Surfaces
What good is a patio if you can’t get to it?
Gravel and grass may look charming in desert landscaping, but they’re not wheelchair-friendly (or really, friendly to anyone with mobility challenges). Instead, look for firm, level, and slip-resistant materials such as:
- Concrete
- Composite decking
- Pavers (just make sure they’re installed with tight joints and level spacing)
- Sealed wood planks
These surfaces reduce the risk of tipping, slipping, or getting stuck in the dirt—and they make it a whole lot easier to enjoy your space without worry.
Accessible Patio Furniture that Works for Every Body
Let’s talk about outdoor seating.
One of the most common complaints we hear from clients is that most patio furniture is way too low to the ground. While that might look sleek, it makes transferring from a wheelchair or walker incredibly difficult—and sometimes unsafe.
Here’s what to look for when shopping for accessible outdoor furniture:
- Seat height between 17 to 20 inches: This height is generally considered “transfer-friendly” for most wheelchair users
- Sturdy, non-metal frames: Metal gets hot. Like, Arizona-in-July hot. Burns are no fun, especially when you’re just trying to relax
- Supportive arms: Armrests provide much-needed leverage for standing or transferring
One of our go-to tricks? Custom outdoor cushions. You can add extra height and comfort by placing a dense foam cushion under the seat cushion. In fact, Maegan uses this method on her own patio. We customized a cushion that brought her outdoor sofa up to 18 inches, making it safe and easy to transfer—without compromising the style.
Beat the Heat (Because, Arizona)
You’re not going to enjoy your beautifully accessible patio if it feels like you’re sitting on the surface of the sun.
Here are our must-haves for creating a cool and comfortable outdoor retreat:
- Shade structures: Think pergolas, cantilever umbrellas, retractable awnings, or shade sails
- Misting systems: These are practically required in Arizona summers. A misting system can drop the temperature by 10 to 20 degrees
- Outdoor fans: Air movement helps with both cooling and keeping bugs at bay
- Light-colored surfaces: Reflect the sun’s rays instead of absorbing heat
- Cooling accessories: Cooling towels, shaded water bowls for pets, and portable fans all go a long way
And don’t forget to keep hydration close by. A small drink station or cooler within reach makes staying outside much more pleasant.
Pool Access, But Make It Accessible
If there’s one saving grace for desert living, it’s the backyard pool. But for people with disabilities, getting in and out of the water can be more complicated than it should be.
Whether you’re designing from scratch or retrofitting, accessible pool design is doable—and worth the investment. Here are a few ways to make your pool more inclusive:
Pool Lifts
Pool lifts are one of the most common accessibility solutions. They’re mechanical devices that safely lower and lift a person in and out of the water. Some are permanent, while others are portable.
While they’re effective, they can sometimes be clunky, hard to use independently, or visually intrusive. If you go this route, we recommend choosing a model that complements your design and ensuring it’s properly maintained.
Transfer Zones
Our personal favorite solution is creating a poolside transfer area. This is a flat, slip-resistant space at the edge of the pool where a person can wheel up, transfer out of their mobility device, and safely slide into the water.
It’s discreet, simple, and encourages independent access.
Beach Entry Pools
These are on the rise for their natural look and accessible sloping entry. But heads up—without a specialty pool wheelchair, these entries can be tough to use, and getting back out of the pool can be tricky. It’s all about choosing the right solution for your lifestyle and mobility needs.
Make It Beautiful and Barrier-Free
Barrier-free doesn’t mean boring.
At Blue Copper Design, we believe that accessibility and style should go hand in hand. Whether it’s blending ramps into your landscape design, using textured concrete to create slip-resistant walkways, or choosing furniture that’s both functional and fabulous—we’re here to prove that accessible design is beautiful design.
Final Thoughts: Outdoor Living for Every Body
Arizona summers may be intense, but they also offer a chance to slow down, soak in the sunset, and enjoy the beauty of your own backyard. With a little planning and a focus on inclusive design, your patio can become a safe, welcoming space for everyone—regardless of age, mobility, or ability.
Barrier-free design isn’t just about meeting a checklist. It’s about creating spaces that empower people to live fully and independently. And yes, that includes sipping a cold drink on a shaded patio while your kids splash in the pool.
We hope these tips help you rethink your outdoor space and inspire some updates that make your home more livable, inclusive, and—let’s be honest—way more comfortable this summer.
Need help designing an accessible patio and outdoor space?
We’re here for that. Contact Blue Copper Design to schedule a consultation and let’s make your patio a place for every body.
