Lori Hamilton
Photo of an expansive tropical backyard patio in Miami with concrete pavers.

Beachy Montage Kapalua Bay Residence

Bassman Blaine Home

Design ideas for a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Hawaii with a roof extension.

Sandy Springs Outdoor Living Room

Kenneth Lynch & Associates AIA

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

Newport Coast Contemporary

Studio H Landscape Architecture

Studio H Landscape Architecture
This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Orange County with a fire feature and natural stone pavers.

Meadow Peak

Pro-Land Landscape Construction Inc.

This design and build project included a full backyard and side yard. The clients spent most of their time outdoors, but especially enjoyed use of their deck, so this was an important item to integrate into the design. ‘Meadow Peak’ was designed to be a retreat, eliminating the hassle of driving up north. We wanted to create a space that was functional for their family and could keep them entertained for many summers to come. Retaining walls and patio spaces were constructed around large existing trees to maintain shade and privacy, the firepit lounge area, tucked beneath them. Turf areas help to break up the interlock and are a fun feature to practice your putting. Most importantly, upgrading their deck to a new larger composite deck with a dining pergola, allows them to continue to entertain outdoors on those hot summer days.

Details

Richard Hartlage Land Morphology

Photo of a large industrial courtyard patio in New York with a water feature, no cover and concrete pavers.

RAD Structures

Randy Angell Designs

This is an example of a mid-sized modern backyard patio in Dallas with an outdoor kitchen, decking and an awning.

Los Altos Hills Estate

Karen Aitken and Associates

Photography by Anthony Halawa at Deleon Realty
This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in San Francisco with a gazebo/cabana, a fire feature and natural stone pavers.

Westside El Paso Contemporary Outdoor Living

GO Designs Inc.

Cool & Contemporary is the vibe our clients were seeking out. Phase 1 complete for this El Paso Westside project. Consistent with the homes architecture and lifestyle creates a space to handle all occasions. Early morning coffee on the patio or around the firepit, smores, drinks, relaxing, reading & maybe a little dancing. Cedar planks set on raw steel post create a cozy atmosphere. Sitting or laying down on cushions and pillows atop the smooth buff leuders limestone bench with your feet popped up on the custom gas firepit. Raw steel veneer, limestone cap and stainless steel fire fixtures complete the sleek contemporary feels. Concrete steps & path lights beam up and accentuates the focal setting. To prep for phase 2, ground cover pathways and areas are ready for the new outdoor movie projector, more privacy, picnic area, permanent seating, landscape and lighting to come.

Newtown Square Pergola Fireplace Patio

STENGER LANDSCAPING

Photo by Rob Cardillo
Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Philadelphia with a fire feature and natural stone pavers.

A Coordination of Inlays

Outdoor Dreams

This is an example of a mid-sized eclectic backyard patio in Richmond with a vegetable garden, concrete pavers and no cover.

Pergolas

LanChester Grill & Hearth

Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Philadelphia with an outdoor kitchen, brick pavers and a pergola.

Pool House and Open Trex Deck

Heartlands Building Company

A extravagant pool side outdoor room with a fireplace, outdoor kitchen, swim-up bar, Infratech heaters, cedar tongue and groove ceiling with a custom stain, and Universal Motions Retractable screens. This project also includes a beautiful Trex Open deck with an underdeck area. The outdoor kitchen includes: - A FireMagic grill - Fire Magic Cabinets and Drawers - An Alfa pizza oven - Two Blaze under counter refrigerators - Granite countertops - All finished in stone to match the fireplace

Retractable Awnings

Liberty Awnings and Shades

Create your own staycation with a custom, motorized retractable awning!
Inspiration for a large contemporary backyard patio in Phoenix with tile and an awning.

Lexington - Patio Audio/Video Package

AudioArt

Paradigm Oasis Outdoor Audio System and SunbrightTV Outdoor Television.
Modern patio in Boston.

Awnings & Shading Systems

Suntanium Shading Products, LLC

Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Other with decking and an awning.

Creating the Perfect Outdoor Living Area

Braen Supply

Creating the Perfect Outdoor Living Area When Barrister Homes and Arapahoe Landscape Contractors came together to work on another house, they immediately thought of Braen Supply to supply the materials they needed to complete the job. From the patio to the outdoor fireplace, the homeowner was able to select materials that would help them achieve a backyard paradise with a modern feel. Working With the Experts Knowing that the fireplace was going to be the focal point of the backyard, the homeowners selected Mystic Gray with the help of the experts at Braen Supply for the patio; the cool grays in the stone would be complimented nicely by the warmth of the fire. Tennessee Gray was chosen for the wall caps and pool coping and Bluestone wall caps, steps and slabs were also incorporated into the design to really tie together the entire look of the outdoor living area. Together they were able to achieve the perfect blend of colors and materials to create a clean, modern outdoor living area the homeowner dreamed of.

Oceanfront in Cape Elizabeth Maine

Ted Carter Inspired Landscapes

Enhancing Maine's rugged coast with stone steps leading to the ocean and a stone terrace featuring random granite slabs and fire pit.
Inspiration for a large traditional backyard patio in Portland Maine with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Hill Tide, Boca Grande

Jinx McDonald Interior Designs

Photo of a large beach style backyard patio in Other with with fireplace and a roof extension.

Outdoor Living Aluminum Trellis

Southwest Fence & Deck

Mid-sized modern backyard patio in Dallas with an outdoor kitchen, concrete slab and a pergola.

Blue Patio Design Ideas

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!