Jeff Graham
Inspiration for a traditional backyard patio in Nashville with a fire feature, concrete slab and no cover.

107 SMR

InfinityHomes of NM

Inspiration for a country patio in Albuquerque.

HILLTECH BEACH HOUSE

KC INTERIOR DESIGN LLC

Contemporary backyard patio in San Diego with concrete slab and a roof extension.

Hamilton Terrace, St Johns Wood, London NW8

Ian Green Residential

This is an example of a contemporary backyard patio in London with decking and no cover.

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.

Caldera Springs

Sun Forest Construction

Ross Chandler
Inspiration for a country patio in Other.

Del Oro

Lori Smyth Design

Ciro Coelho Photography
This is an example of a traditional patio in Santa Barbara with no cover.

House Extension- Wimbledon

Gregory Phillips Architects

Inspiration for a contemporary patio in London with no cover.

The Front Door / Dwayne Carruth

photo - Mitchel Naquin
Photo of a large contemporary courtyard patio in New Orleans with a water feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Rancho Retreat

Elevation Architectural Studios

fireplace, firepit
Design ideas for a mediterranean patio in San Diego.

Exterioirs

Draper white

Draper White
Traditional patio in Denver with concrete slab and a roof extension.

ladner contemporary

Portal Design Inc

Design ideas for a contemporary patio in Vancouver with a roof extension.

Florida Historic Renovation

Clifford M. Scholz Architects, LLC

This home was built in 1926 and is on the Historic Register. The home was in mild disrepair and the new owner wanted updated utilities and amenities while not sacrificing the historical registration or integrity of the home.

The Carriage House

Colin Grey Voigt

Colin Grey Voigt
Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional courtyard patio in Charleston with concrete slab and no cover.

Outdoor Dinner Terrace

Exterior Worlds Landscaping & Design

This is an example of a small transitional side yard patio in Houston with concrete slab and an awning.

Casa CH

GLR Arquitectos / Gilberto L. Rodriguez

Jorge Taboada
Design ideas for a contemporary patio in Other with a roof extension.

Formal patio

Mierop Design, FAPLD

A formal patio mixes square cut bluestone with accents of brick in a diamond layout. Lisa Mierop
Photo of an expansive traditional backyard patio in New York with no cover and tile.

Hawaii

Dara Rosenfeld Design

Design ideas for a tropical patio in Hawaii with natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Sanctuary on Solano

Bianchi Design

This spectacular project was a two year effort, first begun by demoing over $400k of spec home madness and reducing it to rubble before rebuilding from the ground up. Don't miss these amazing construction videos chronicling the before during and after effort from start to finish! http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLE8A17F8A7A281E5A This project was for a repeat client that had worked with Bianchi before. Bianchi's first effort was to paint the broad strokes that would set the theme for the exterior layout of the property, including the pool, patios, outdoor "bistro", and surrounding garden areas. Then Bianchi introduced his specialized team of artisans to the client to implement the details. Contact Kirk to learn more! The centerpiece of the backyard is a deck level vanishing edge pool flush in the foreground, strikingly simple and understatedly elegant in its first impression, though complex under the hood. The pool, built by Tyler Mathews of Natural Reflections Pools, seems to emerge from the ground as the deck terraces downward, exposing a wetted wall on the background. It is flanked by two mature ironwood trees anchored within stone planters on either side, that bookend the entire space. A singular monochromatic glass tile spa rises above the deck plane, shimmering in the sunlight, perfection wrought by Luke and Amy Denny of Alpentile, while three sets of three spillways send concentric ringlets across the mirrored plane of glassy water. Bianchi's landscape star Morgan Holt of EarthArt worked his magic throughout the property with his exquisite selection of specimen trees and plant materials, and above all, his most challenging feat, crafted a Michaelangeloesque cascading stair, reminiscent of that at the Laurentian Library, levitating and flowing down over the front water feature like a bridal train. This will be a project long enjoyed by the owners, and the team that created it.

Outdoor Entertainment

Interiors by JW

Brenda Eckhardt Photography
Design ideas for a large traditional backyard patio in Other with an outdoor kitchen, stamped concrete and no cover.

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!