Large contemporary patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen and a roof extension.

Arcadia Suburban Modern | Guest House + Outdoor Fireplace

A simple desert plant palette complements the clean Modernist lines of this Arcadia-area home. Architect C.P. Drewett says the exterior color palette lightens the residence’s sculptural forms. “We also painted it in the springtime,” Drewett adds. “It’s a time of such rejuvenation, and every time I’m involved in a color palette during spring, it reflects that spirit.” Featured in the November 2008 issue of Phoenix Home & Garden, this "magnificently modern" home is actually a suburban loft located in Arcadia, a neighborhood formerly occupied by groves of orange and grapefruit trees in Phoenix, Arizona. The home, designed by architect C.P. Drewett, offers breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain from the entire main floor, guest house, and pool area. These main areas "loft" over a basement level featuring 4 bedrooms, a guest room, and a kids' den. Features of the house include white-oak ceilings, exposed steel trusses, Eucalyptus-veneer cabinetry, honed Pompignon limestone, concrete, granite, and stainless steel countertops. The owners also enlisted the help of Interior Designer Sharon Fannin. The project was built by Sonora West Development of Scottsdale, AZ.

Prairie Village Home Renovation

Faust Construction

Inspiration for a large modern backyard patio in Kansas City with decking and a roof extension.

Terrasse rooftop - "La belle vie!"

Erell et Rozanne - Jardins essentiels

Terrasse rooftop à Paris et ses multiples ambiances
Inspiration for a large transitional patio in Paris.

Sunken Patio w/ Fire Pit and Built-in Seating

Conscious Environments Inc.

A lowered patio w/ built-in seating and contemporary fire pit. Great place for hanging out, relaxing, and entertaining. A floating hardwood bench provides ample seating for larger gatherings.

Metal Roof Extension Outdoor Entertain Areas

Southwest Fence & Deck

Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Dallas with a fire feature and a pergola.

Mid-Century Post and Beam

Joel Reis Architecture and Real Estate Photography

This is an example of a mid-sized midcentury backyard patio in Los Angeles with stamped concrete.

California Spanish Revival

User

This is an example of an expansive mediterranean courtyard patio in Orange County with a water feature, tile and no cover.

Modern Farm House

Randolph Design + Build

Outdoor kitchen
Large contemporary backyard patio in Oklahoma City with an outdoor kitchen, concrete slab and a roof extension.

Japanischer Garten mit Outdoor-/Event-Küche

SieMatic - moebelplus Deutschland GmbH & Co KG

Inspiration for an expansive contemporary patio in Leipzig with natural stone pavers.

Patio Awnings & Shades

Texas Sun & Shade

Exterior solar shades and awning systems are the most efficient solution to protect your windows and patio areas from the sun's damaging heat and UV rays. Blocking up to 99% of UV, motorized retractable shading systems allow you to block the sun and heat or reverse the strategy to allow in natural light and heat as desired.

Outdoor Pool and Entertainment Area

The Nielsen Collection

Photography by Christi Nielsen
Large contemporary backyard patio in Dallas with an outdoor kitchen, concrete pavers and a roof extension.

Ultra Modern Metal Stair Rail

Naddour's Custom Metalworks/Baltic Iron Doors

Tony Medina
Design ideas for an expansive modern backyard patio in Los Angeles with a fire feature, concrete slab and no cover.

Brick Manor South of Boston

Cross Tie Construction LLC

Rick O'Brien
Design ideas for a large transitional backyard patio in Providence with an outdoor kitchen, a pergola and natural stone pavers.

Carlsbad, California, Modern

dRichards Interiors

This project combines high end earthy elements with elegant, modern furnishings. We wanted to re invent the beach house concept and create an home which is not your typical coastal retreat. By combining stronger colors and textures, we gave the spaces a bolder and more permanent feel. Yet, as you travel through each room, you can't help but feel invited and at home.

snowmassLCO

Timothy F. White

Lots of Glass and sun all facing straight up the ski slopes
Design ideas for a large contemporary backyard patio in Denver with a fire feature, concrete slab and no cover.

Parkland Residence, Beverly Hills

MGS Architecture

Photography by Matthew Momberger
Design ideas for an expansive modern backyard patio in Los Angeles.

Oshry Residence

spfa

Expansive contemporary courtyard patio in Los Angeles with concrete slab and no cover.

Entertainment with a View

Conscious Environments Inc.

Large outdoor dining space under an industrial style patio cover with heating for comfort and lighting for visual enhancement. An above ground hot tub with water feature and raised fire pit seating area provides many useful spaces for entertaining and relaxation.

PCH Modern

Burdge & Associates Architects

PCH Modern Mediterranean Home by Burdge Architects Malibu, CA
Inspiration for a large contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and an awning.

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!