A modern courtyard patio area in Las Vegas, NV.
Small modern courtyard patio in Las Vegas with a water feature and tile.

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.

Monaco Luxury Pools - Pacific Mist

Jeri Koegel Photography

Photo of a contemporary backyard patio in Orange County with a water feature, tile and no cover.

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.

Ebden Ave

Atkinson Pontifex

A beautifully lit garden area with an pleasantly calming ambiance and delightful water feature accompanied by a timber outdoor bench.
Mid-sized traditional patio in Melbourne with a water feature and a gazebo/cabana.

A Spanish Revival/ Spanish Colonial

South Coast Architects, Inc.

Spanish Revival,Spanish Colonial,Private Courtyard
Design ideas for a mediterranean courtyard patio in Orange County with a water feature.

Rue Group, Inc.

Rue Group, Inc. / Kathryn Rue, Landscape Architect

A beautiful home was surrounded by an old and poorly laid out landscape before our firm was called in to evaluate ways to re-organize the spaces and pull the whole look together for the rich and refined tastes of this client. Today they are proud to entertain at poolside where there is now enough space to have over-flowing parties. A vine covered custom wood lattice arbor successfully hides the side of the garage while creating a stunning focal point at the shallow end of the pool. An intimate courtyard garden is just a step outside the Master Bedroom where the sounds of the central water fountain can be heard throughout the house and lush plantings, cobblestone paving and low iron rail accents transport you to New Orleans. The front yard and stone entry now truly reflect this home’s incredible interior and a charming rose garden, that was once an unused lawn area, leads to a secret garden.

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.

Landscape

7Designs+Development

Design ideas for a mid-sized modern backyard patio in Orange County with a water feature, tile and no cover.

Colmar Court

Anthemion Architecture LLC

Interior Design: Fowler Interiors Photography: Inspiro 8 Studios
Photo of a mid-sized eclectic backyard patio in Other with a water feature and gravel.

Green Hill Project

Caldwell & Johnson Custom Builders & Remodelers

Green Hill Project Photo Credit: Nat Rea
Inspiration for a mid-sized beach style backyard patio in Providence with a water feature, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Traditional Patio

Inspiration for a traditional patio in DC Metro with a water feature.

Proctor Terrace Backyard

Geared for Growing Landscape Services

Design ideas for a large contemporary backyard patio in San Francisco with no cover, natural stone pavers and a water feature.

Italian Elegance

JAUREGUI Architecture Interiors Construction

Piston Design
Photo of an expansive mediterranean backyard patio in Houston with a water feature and a roof extension.

Outdoor Entertaining Spaces

Arroyo Seco Construction

Design ideas for a small front yard patio in Santa Barbara with a water feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Classic Townhome, Newport Beach, California

The Troop Group

Landscape Design by christophertaylor.com
Mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Orange County with a pergola, a water feature and natural stone pavers.

River's Edge

Fiorentino Group Architects

Photo Credit: Rixon Photography
Inspiration for an expansive modern backyard patio in Boston with a water feature, tile and no cover.

Oakwood

Boswell Construction

Black stucco-wrapped beam Fleetwood pocket doors Stackstone siding #buildboswell
This is an example of a large contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with a water feature, tile and no cover.

Entertain Rain or Shine

Julie Orr Design

Ana Villafane
Photo of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in San Francisco with a water feature.

poolhouse

Stylecraft Homes and Renovations

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Charlotte with a water feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Blue Patio Design Ideas with a Water Feature

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!