Have you ever been to New Orleans? If so, you probably fell in love with the romantic and charming architecture of the French Quarter. Maybe you've just seen pictures of this beautiful city and you have decided to create a front patio with a New Orleans feeling. If so, from the front door to the stair railings, here are some ideas that might inspire you.

The Floor - Brick, pebble stone or flagstone would all be perfect for the floor of your front patio. Another idea would be to use concrete. If you do, think about faux-painting it to look like old marble or old brick. Brick, concrete, pebble stone and flagstone are not only beautiful, but they are affordable and will last for a very long time. The upkeep on any of those floors would be easy, too. Just spray the floor with your garden hose and you're good to go.

The Stairs - If you have stairs leading to the front patio, consider combining two or three of the materials you used for your front patio to design the stairs. For example, if you have selected flagstone for the major portion of the stairs, use bricks on the sides to add interest. The perfect touch would be to install wrought iron stair railing.

Black or green would both keep the New Orleans tradition. However, if you want to add drama to the stair railing, paint the wrought iron a bright color. Turquoise or brick red would both be good choices. Having stair railing would not only add beauty to the front patio, but it would provide safety. Stair railing kits are so easy to install that you can do the job yourself.

The Front Door - If there's enough space, French doors would be really great. Whether you buy French doors or a single door, rustic wood would give a very New Orleans touch to the patio. Choose wrought iron for the hardware on the door and, select the same color for your door paint as you did for your staircase railings. Brick red with a brick red staircase would be very dramatic. Choose outdoor paint which will withstand the elements well. Choose a door bell that will complement the hardware you have selected.

As you select pots and other decor, go to antique shops where you will find one-of-a-kind pieces that will complete the New Orleans look you are creating.