• Zinnias are a great option for adding flowers to a Mexican patioPerfect Zinnia image by maureen rigdon from Fotolia.com
  
  The look of a Mexican patio is one which envelops the colorful nature and architectural design of Mexican culture. These patios are frequently inlaid with vibrant tiles, copper metal accents and terra cotta elements. Even if you don't have the money to completely renovate your patio, there are plenty of options which can be applied to give the look and feel of a colorful Mexican patio.
  
  

Tile/Stones

• Authentic Mexican tile has unique craftsmanship and is extremely affordable. For a true Mexican flair use authentic Mexican tiles or painted pavers for walking areas. Cement tiles are perfect for outdoors and hold up well to the elements. Go for a mix and match look by buying a variety of coordinating patterns and colors. This is an easy design and doesn’t require any special planning; just lay them as you desire. If you don’t want a variety of colors or you prefer a simple look, try terra cotta tiles or blocks. These give a subtle Mexican flavor without being too vibrant or overbearing.
  
  

Outdoor Oven

• A terra cotta or stone outdoor oven accented with Mexican tile counters is the perfect centerpiece for any neighborhood fiesta. The outdoor oven is a great alternative to a grill and can be used in a variety of ways. You can build them into your patio or buy a chiminea-style outdoor fire place. This style fireplace is traditionally used as a source of heat (fire-pit alternative) and a place for cooking. The burning area is a large round bowl-shaped fire box with a long stove pipe that funnels the smoke away. These come in metal, clay, and stone options.
  
  

Furniture

• When selecting furniture, try out hammered metal such as iron, copper accented and aluminum. These items can be customized or treated to give off an antique look if desired. Tiled tables or stained glass options in turquoise, yellow, blues, and oranges are also great furniture options. If you enjoy building projects, you can even buy mural satillo tiles and make your own side tables. If you’re looking for a newer, more comfortable style, wicker looks great and can be spray-painted to match your color scheme. Striped fabrics are excellent comfort and style options for adding to the hacienda look.
  
  

Décor

• When searching for Mexican-style décor, keep colors like yellow and red in mind. Mexican color schemes involve both earthy tones such as terra cotta and deep reds and also the vibrant blues, turquoise and bright red. Candle arrangements, crafted Mexican figurines and ceramic bull heads all add to the look when placed on walls or tabletops.
  
  

Gardens

• If you plan on designing a garden around the patio area to enhance the appearance, go for plants which have broad, large leaves. Accommodate them with brightly colored flowers like orange and yellow zinnias, which also attract butterflies. Dahlias and salvias are also excellent choices for a vibrant Mexican flower garden.