Inspiration for a large beach style side yard patio in Paris with an outdoor kitchen, concrete slab and a pergola.

This is an example of a beach style backyard patio in Atlanta with an outdoor kitchen and a roof extension.

Inspiration for a large beach style backyard patio in Miami with tile, a roof extension and an outdoor kitchen.

Challenge This 2001 riverfront home was purchased by the owners in 2015 and immediately renovated. Progressive Design Build was hired at that time to remodel the interior, with tentative plans to remodel their outdoor living space as a second phase design/build remodel. True to their word, after completing the interior remodel, this young family turned to Progressive Design Build in 2017 to address known zoning regulations and restrictions in their backyard and build an outdoor living space that was fit for entertaining and everyday use. The homeowners wanted a pool and spa, outdoor living room, kitchen, fireplace and covered patio. They also wanted to stay true to their home’s Old Florida style architecture while also adding a Jamaican influence to the ceiling detail, which held sentimental value to the homeowners who honeymooned in Jamaica. Solution To tackle the known zoning regulations and restrictions in the backyard, the homeowners researched and applied for a variance. With the variance in hand, Progressive Design Build sat down with the homeowners to review several design options. These options included: Option 1) Modifications to the original pool design, changing it to be longer and narrower and comply with an existing drainage easement Option 2) Two different layouts of the outdoor living area Option 3) Two different height elevations and options for the fire pit area Option 4) A proposed breezeway connecting the new area with the existing home After reviewing the options, the homeowners chose the design that placed the pool on the backside of the house and the outdoor living area on the west side of the home (Option 1). It was important to build a patio structure that could sustain a hurricane (a Southwest Florida necessity), and provide substantial sun protection. The new covered area was supported by structural columns and designed as an open-air porch (with no screens) to allow for an unimpeded view of the Caloosahatchee River. The open porch design also made the area feel larger, and the roof extension was built with substantial strength to survive severe weather conditions. The pool and spa were connected to the adjoining patio area, designed to flow seamlessly into the next. The pool deck was designed intentionally in a 3-color blend of concrete brick with freeform edge detail to mimic the natural river setting. Bringing the outdoors inside, the pool and fire pit were slightly elevated to create a small separation of space. Result All of the desirable amenities of a screened porch were built into an open porch, including electrical outlets, a ceiling fan/light kit, TV, audio speakers, and a fireplace. The outdoor living area was finished off with additional storage for cushions, ample lighting, an outdoor dining area, a smoker, a grill, a double-side burner, an under cabinet refrigerator, a major ventilation system, and water supply plumbing that delivers hot and cold water to the sinks. Because the porch is under a roof, we had the option to use classy woods that would give the structure a natural look and feel. We chose a dark cypress ceiling with a gloss finish, replicating the same detail that the homeowners experienced in Jamaica. This created a deep visceral and emotional reaction from the homeowners to their new backyard. The family now spends more time outdoors enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Their professional lives allow them to take a trip to paradise right in their backyard—stealing moments that reflect on the past, but are also enjoyed in the present.

Trellises of edible grape surround an outdoor bar and BBQ. Photos: Orly Olivier
Large beach style backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen and concrete pavers.

Photo by Celeste Burns Photography
Design ideas for a small beach style backyard patio in Jacksonville with an outdoor kitchen, decking and no cover.

Martin Mann photographer
Small beach style backyard patio in San Diego with an outdoor kitchen, tile and a gazebo/cabana.

The new deck at the rear of this reonvated weatherboard beach cottage provides ample space for indoor outdoor living. Michelle Waler Architects and tania niwa photography

This is an example of a large beach style backyard patio in Jacksonville with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Inspiration for a beach style patio in New York with an outdoor kitchen, tile and a pergola.

Inspiration for a beach style patio in Miami with an outdoor kitchen.

This is an example of a beach style backyard patio in New Orleans with an outdoor kitchen and a gazebo/cabana.

Richard Mandelkorn Photography
Photo of a large beach style backyard patio in Boston with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Backyard showing the built in barbecue area with a pool
Photo of a large beach style backyard patio in Sydney with an outdoor kitchen, a roof extension and tile.

This is an example of a mid-sized beach style backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen and natural stone pavers.

Design ideas for a mid-sized beach style backyard patio in Houston with an outdoor kitchen, decking and a gazebo/cabana.

This cabana is truly outdoor living at its best. An outdoor kitchen beside the outdoor living room and pool. With aluminum shutters to block the hot western sun, fans to move the air, and heaters for cool evenings, make the space extremely comfortable. This has become the most used room "in" the house.

Photo of a large beach style backyard patio in New York with tile, a roof extension and an outdoor kitchen.

Contemporary Coastal Patio Design: Three Salt Design Co. Build: UC Custom Homes Photo: Chad Mellon
Design ideas for a mid-sized beach style backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and no cover.