Mid-sized contemporary patio in Melbourne.

Once the existing brick patio was cleaned, the Woodard 'Sculptura' chair, bench and ottomans provide comfortable seating while a selection of framed succulents, as well as street art from the owner's collection, provide an interesting backdrop. Photo © Jude Parkinson-Morgan.

Weekend In The Country

Louis Fusco Landscape Architects

Inspiration for a mid-sized country backyard patio in New York with natural stone pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Newport Beach Loggia

Concept Design, Inc.

Martin King
Inspiration for a mid-sized mediterranean courtyard patio in Orange County with tile and no cover.

Leech Lake 2 Outdoor Shower

Lands End Development - Designers & Builders

Photo of a mid-sized traditional side yard patio in Minneapolis with an outdoor shower and decking.

Cliffside Farmhouse // Modern Farmhouse

Younger Homes

Large country backyard patio in Austin with decking and a roof extension.

Backyard Spa Privacy Wall

HideAway Screens

The homeowner wanted to create an enclosure around their built-in hot tub to add some privacy. The contractor, Husker Decks, designed a privacy wall with alternating materials. The aluminum privacy screen in 'River Rock' mixed with a horizontal wood wall in a rich stain blend to create a privacy wall that blends perfectly into the homeowner's backyard space and style.

Fire Pits & Outdoor Fireplaces

St Louis Select Landscaping

Photo of a mid-sized country backyard patio in St Louis with with fireplace, concrete pavers and no cover.

Glasscock

Clearcut Construction, Inc.

We transformed the existing patio into a space that is a continuation of their kitchen and more inviting for entertaining .
This is an example of a transitional backyard patio in Raleigh.

Secluded garden with Fireplace

Karen Rogers at KR Garden Design

caroline mardon
This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in London with natural stone pavers and with fireplace.

Pasadena Complete Home Renovation

Regal Construction & Remodeling Inc.

This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with concrete slab and no cover.

Rodriguez Home

American Landscape Structures

Large traditional backyard patio in Philadelphia with an outdoor kitchen, a gazebo/cabana and natural stone pavers.

Mid Century Courtyard Remodel

SCJ Studio Landscape Architecture

Already partially enclosed by an ipe fence and concrete wall, our client had a vision of an outdoor courtyard for entertaining on warm summer evenings since the space would be shaded by the house in the afternoon. He imagined the space with a water feature, lighting and paving surrounded by plants. With our marching orders in place, we drew up a schematic plan quickly and met to review two options for the space. These options quickly coalesced and combined into a single vision for the space. A thick, 60” tall concrete wall would enclose the opening to the street – creating privacy and security, and making a bold statement. We knew the gate had to be interesting enough to stand up to the large concrete walls on either side, so we designed and had custom fabricated by Dennis Schleder (www.dennisschleder.com) a beautiful, visually dynamic metal gate. The gate has become the icing on the cake, all 300 pounds of it! Other touches include drought tolerant planting, bluestone paving with pebble accents, crushed granite paving, LED accent lighting, and outdoor furniture. Both existing trees were retained and are thriving with their new soil. The garden was installed in December and our client is extremely happy with the results – so are we! Photo credits, Coreen Schmidt

Guest House in Laytonsville

Lofgren Construction

Mid-sized traditional backyard patio in DC Metro with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

JACUZZI

Oregon Hot Tub

Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Portland with decking.

Southwest Safari in Santa Fe

Samuel Design Group

Daniel Nadelbach
Inspiration for a mid-sized backyard patio in Albuquerque with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Pergola and Fireplace

Signature Concrete Design

Gabelli Studio
Design ideas for a mid-sized backyard patio in Philadelphia with a fire feature, stamped concrete and a pergola.

The Salas Family Wood Fired Brick Pizza Oven in Washington

BrickWood Ovens

A beautiful Wood Fired Oven with BBQ Grill in an Outdoor Kitchen! This pizza oven is clad with natural stone veneer and partnered with a wood BBQ.. also called an Argentinian grill. Amazing job! To see more pictures of this oven (and many more ovens), please visit – BrickWoodOvens.com

Modern Fence and Walkway

Finesse, Inc.

The previous year Finesse, Inc. remodeled this home in Monrovia and created the 9-lite window at the entry of the home. After experiencing some intense weather we were called back to build this new entry way. The entry consists of 1/3 covered area and 2/3 area exposed to allow some light to come in. Fabricated using square steel posts and beams with galvanized hangers and Redwood lumber. A steel cap was placed at the front of the entry to really make this Modern home complete. The fence and trash enclosure compliment the curb appeal this home brings. PC: Aaron Gilless

De Soto, KS Patio

Maverick Landscaping, Porch and Patio

Mid-sized country backyard patio in Kansas City with concrete slab and a pergola.

Brown 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!