Whether it’s arthritis, joint or back pain, restless leg syndrome, muscle injuries or fibromyalgia, hot tubs are a proven form of chronic pain relief. The heat of the water increases blood flow and relaxes the body, while the massaging action of the jets and the water’s buoyancy loosen muscle tension and soothe sore joints. The New England Journal of Medicine (08-16-1999) found that, after just 10 days, patients with Type 2 Diabetes who used hot tubs 30 minutes a day/6 days per week required reduced doses of insulin, lost weight, slept better and showed distinct decreases in plasma glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin. Hot tubs can be a great fix for those suffering from insomnia, helping your body to wind down before bed and get the natural sleep you need. Even if you don’t suffer from chronic sleep problems, the Better Sleep Council recommends establishing a relaxing bedtime routine, such as soaking in hot water to help maintain a healthy sleep cycle. According to the Council’s findings, warm water releases muscle tension and increases blood flow, both of which contribute to a relaxed and deeper, more comfortable sleep. Whether it’s a new exercise routine or an unusually active day on your feet, most of us know the “day after” feeling of sore, overworked muscles that make it hurt to move, period. The water pressure from hot tub jets relieves muscle tightness and soreness by removing lactic acid, opening up the blood vessels and promoting the flow of endorphins. LPGA Sports Medicine Director Caroline Nichols and former President of the American Orthopedic Society of Sports Medicine Dr. James Andrews recommend hydrotherapeutic activity for athletes at every level. Nichols says that hot tubs especially help with recovery since jets focus on overused muscle and joint regions, while Andrews supports hydrotherapy as a good tool for improved circulation, sensory impulses and stiff joints. Whether you’re looking to alleviate stress, feel healthier or simply spend more time with your loved ones, you’d be amazed at how as little as 10 minutes in a hot tub can help you relax and put everything in perspective. There are hot tubs for every type of user, regardless of whether it’s just you or it’s the entire gang piling in, looking for some much-needed relief after a long day.

Upper East Side Townhouse

VGC NYC Inc.

Inspiration for a large traditional backyard patio in New York with a container garden, no cover and natural stone pavers.

Ranch Revival

Courtney Thomas Design

We planned a thoughtful redesign of this beautiful home while retaining many of the existing features. We wanted this house to feel the immediacy of its environment. So we carried the exterior front entry style into the interiors, too, as a way to bring the beautiful outdoors in. In addition, we added patios to all the bedrooms to make them feel much bigger. Luckily for us, our temperate California climate makes it possible for the patios to be used consistently throughout the year. The original kitchen design did not have exposed beams, but we decided to replicate the motif of the 30" living room beams in the kitchen as well, making it one of our favorite details of the house. To make the kitchen more functional, we added a second island allowing us to separate kitchen tasks. The sink island works as a food prep area, and the bar island is for mail, crafts, and quick snacks. We designed the primary bedroom as a relaxation sanctuary – something we highly recommend to all parents. It features some of our favorite things: a cognac leather reading chair next to a fireplace, Scottish plaid fabrics, a vegetable dye rug, art from our favorite cities, and goofy portraits of the kids. --- Project designed by Courtney Thomas Design in La Cañada. Serving Pasadena, Glendale, Monrovia, San Marino, Sierra Madre, South Pasadena, and Altadena. For more about Courtney Thomas Design, see here: https://www.courtneythomasdesign.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://www.courtneythomasdesign.com/portfolio/functional-ranch-house-design/

Brooklyn Backyard fit for a Fiesta

Brooklinteriors

Brooklyn backyard patio design in Prospect Heights for a young, professional couple who loves to both entertain and relax! This space includes a West Elm outdoor sectional and round concrete outdoor coffee table.

Williamsburg Carriage House

Sergio Mercado Design

Joshua McHugh
This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in New York with a container garden, concrete pavers and no cover.

Covered Patio, Midwest Simplicity

Videre Decor

With bright outdoor upholstery fabrics, this patio on the golf course was inviting and fun. A pop of color on the exterior doors that fully opened into the interior made indoor/outdoor living a breeze.

Wandsworth refurbishment

Abstract Renovations Ltd

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in London with a container garden, natural stone pavers and no cover.

City Oasis Pool Landscape

Elemental Construction Inc. - Pools and Landscape

Professional
Design ideas for a contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with a container garden, concrete pavers and an awning.

Urban Frenzy

KD Landscape

The loveseat and pergola provide a shady resting spot behind the garage in this city garden.
Design ideas for a small tropical backyard patio in Chicago with a container garden, brick pavers and a pergola.

Aberdeen Planter (L32" X W10" X H16")

Decorpro

ABERDEEN PLANTER (L32” X W10” X H16”) Planters Product Dimensions (IN): L32” X W10” X H16” Product Weight (LB): 29 Product Dimensions (CM): L81.3 X W25.4 X H40.6 Product Weight (KG): 13.1 Aberdeen Planter (L32” X W10” X H16”) is part of an exclusive line of all-season, weatherproof planters. Available in 43 colours, Aberdeen is split-resistant, warp-resistant and mildew-resistant. A lifetime warranty product, this planter can be used throughout the year, in every season–winter, spring, summer, and fall. Made of a durable, resilient fiberglass resin material, the Aberdeen will withstand any weather condition–rain, snow, sleet, hail, and sun. Complementary to any focal area in the home or garden, Aberdeen is a vibrant accent piece as well as an eye-catching decorative feature. Plant a variety of colourful flowers and lush greenery in Aberdeen to optimize the planter’s dimension and depth. Aberdeen’s elongated rectangular shape makes it a versatile, elegant piece for any room indoors, and any space outdoors. By Decorpro Home + Garden. Each sold separately. Materials: Fiberglass resin Gel coat (custom colours) All Planters are custom made to order. Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. Made in Canada ABOUT PLANTER WARRANTY ANTI-SHOCK WEATHERPROOF DRAINAGE HOLES AND PLUGS INNER LIP LIGHTWEIGHT

Quiet Luxury, Earthen Inspired

Urbanology Designs

Rooted in a blend of tradition and modernity, this family home harmonizes rich design with personal narrative, offering solace and gathering for family and friends alike. Project by Texas' Urbanology Designs. Their North Richland Hills-based interior design studio serves Dallas, Highland Park, University Park, Fort Worth, and upscale clients nationwide. For more about Urbanology Designs see here: https://www.urbanologydesigns.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://www.urbanologydesigns.com/luxury-earthen-inspired-home-dallas

Rustic Modern Outdoor Entertainment Retreat

Landwell Design + Build Co.

This spacious, multi-level backyard in San Luis Obispo, CA, once completely underutilized and overtaken by weeds, was converted into the ultimate outdoor entertainment space with a custom pool and spa as the centerpiece. A cabana with a built-in storage bench, outdoor TV and wet bar provide a protected place to chill during hot pool days, and a screened outdoor shower nearby is perfect for rinsing off after a dip. A hammock attached to the master deck and the adjacent pool deck are ideal for relaxing and soaking up some rays. The stone veneer-faced water feature wall acts as a backdrop for the pool area, and transitions into a retaining wall dividing the upper and lower levels. An outdoor sectional surrounds a gas fire bowl to create a cozy spot to entertain in the evenings, with string lights overhead for ambiance. A Belgard paver patio connects the lounge area to the outdoor kitchen with a Bull gas grill and cabinetry, polished concrete counter tops, and a wood bar top with seating. The outdoor kitchen is tucked in next to the main deck, one of the only existing elements that remain from the previous space, which now functions as an outdoor dining area overlooking the entire yard. Finishing touches included low-voltage LED landscape lighting, pea gravel mulch, and lush planting areas and outdoor decor.

A Cherry Creek Rooftop Container Garden

Designscapes Colorado Inc.

A vibrant annual display of Marigolds, pink Geraniums, Petunias and Torenia.
Mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Denver with a container garden, concrete pavers and no cover.

Gardener's Retreat

Andrew Heiser

This is an example of a small beach style backyard patio in Los Angeles with a container garden, gravel and a roof extension.

Outdoor Escape

Erica Peale Design

This outdoor escape is the perfect place to enjoy a beautiful day! Upholstered furniture with an eclectic mix of throw pillows provides comfortable seating. A concrete and teak coffee table is coupled with navy blue rope and concrete side tables. The modern teak dining table and gray rope chairs are perfect for outdoor dining! This outdoor escape is the perfect place to enjoy a beautiful day! Upholstered furniture with an eclectic mix of throw pillows provides comfortable seating. A concrete and teak coffee table is coupled with navy blue rope and concrete side tables. The modern teak dining table and gray rope chairs are perfect for outdoor dining! Erica Peale Design

English Garden in the Bay Area

Karen Aitken and Associates

Photography by Brent Bear
Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in San Francisco with a container garden, brick pavers and a pergola.

Contemporary Hillside

Monarch Gardens, Inc.

Photo of a contemporary backyard patio in San Francisco with a container garden, concrete slab and an awning.

The Bock Residence

Pacific Outdoor Living

This is an example of a traditional backyard patio in Los Angeles with a container garden, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Backyard Renovations | Patio Renovations and Decking

LUSH REMODELING & DEVELOPMENT INC

Design ideas for a small modern backyard patio in Los Angeles with a container garden, decking and a gazebo/cabana.

Expansive Modern Patio

Deco Planters

This is an example of an expansive modern backyard patio in New York with gravel, no cover and a container garden.

Backyard Patio Design Ideas with a Container Garden

A patio is a paved outdoor area that adjoins a house, and is a popular addition to Australian and New Zealand homes. Not only is it yet another place to enjoy the great outdoors, but it can also save you time and money on landscaping. Often seen as an extension of the indoor living space, patios and courtyards can serve multiple functions. If you add outdoor furniture such as lounge chairs and a sofa, a barbecue or outdoor kitchen and a dining table and chairs, you can use them for entertaining, cooking, dining, and relaxing. Browse the Photos on Houzz for courtyard and patio designs to see how you can best utilise your existing outdoor area.

What materials should I use to construct my patio?

Stone pavers and bricks are the most common surface materials used for patios, while concrete, tiles and gravel are also popular. Stone paving is usually at the top end of the price bracket, but is highly durable and the most natural-looking of the surface materials available. Brick patios, on the other hand, are relatively easy to lay, and provide a warm, rich colour that can complement traditional homes. Concrete patios are one of the least expensive to build and are also very durable, while gravel is quick and easy to install. You will also need to decide whether you want your patio covered or left uncovered. You can add roofing if you plan on using the space regularly, or opt for a pergola, trellis or umbrella for shade instead. Patio enclosures, usually made from glass or mesh screens, can also transform your space into an outdoor room.

What outdoor patio furniture and decor should I include?

A patio can be so much more than just a paved slab, if you add the right additions. An outdoor kitchen and bar will help make the space the life of the party, while high-quality, low-slung chairs will make you want to stay outside for longer. If you have the budget, you may even consider adding a spa or pool. To make it the ideal al fresco area even when temperatures drop, a fire pit or fireplace will be able to keep you and your company toasty warm. To entice you and your guests into the space, make some room for greenery, even if you just a place a pot plant atop a table. It will help tie in the area to the surrounding garden. Fairy lights, garden torches and citronella candles will also help set the mood and keep the mozzies at bay, while soft furnishings such as waterproof rugs, pillows and chair cushions will add personality. For something striking, consider adding a water feature or wall garden. If you're ready to hire a landscape professional to help you with the job, browse our directory here!