Hood House is a playful protector that respects the heritage character of Carlton North whilst celebrating purposeful change. It is a luxurious yet compact and hyper-functional home defined by an exploration of contrast: it is ornamental and restrained, subdued and lively, stately and casual, compartmental and open. For us, it is also a project with an unusual history. This dual-natured renovation evolved through the ownership of two separate clients. Originally intended to accommodate the needs of a young family of four, we shifted gears at the eleventh hour and adapted a thoroughly resolved design solution to the needs of only two. From a young, nuclear family to a blended adult one, our design solution was put to a test of flexibility. The result is a subtle renovation almost invisible from the street yet dramatic in its expressive qualities. An oblique view from the northwest reveals the playful zigzag of the new roof, the rippling metal hood. This is a form-making exercise that connects old to new as well as establishing spatial drama in what might otherwise have been utilitarian rooms upstairs. A simple palette of Australian hardwood timbers and white surfaces are complimented by tactile splashes of brass and rich moments of colour that reveal themselves from behind closed doors. Our internal joke is that Hood House is like Lazarus, risen from the ashes. We’re grateful that almost six years of hard work have culminated in this beautiful, protective and playful house, and so pleased that Glenda and Alistair get to call it home.

Pimiento Lane

DD Ford Construction

Jim Bartsch Photography
Inspiration for a large mediterranean backyard patio in Santa Barbara with brick pavers.

Lake home

TJB HOMES, INC

Photo of a country backyard patio in Minneapolis with a fire feature, no cover and brick pavers.

New Urban Garden

SED Design

Inspiration for a small contemporary backyard patio in Philadelphia with a water feature, brick pavers and a pergola.

Fayetteville, GA

John Bynum Custom Homes, Inc.

Inspiration for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Atlanta with a fire feature, brick pavers and a roof extension.

Fire and Water Feature Outdoor Living Space

Firegear Outdoors

Spending your nights here having it all. This custom water and fire feature was done using Firegear Outdoors burner systems to create a glow for this stunning space. Pull up a seat and be taken into your own retreat. Right next to your covered entertainment space as well as outdoor kitchen bar area.

Exterior Doors

ELEVATIONS | Design Solutions by Myers

Visit Our Showroom 8000 Locust Mill St. Ellicott City, MD 21043 Andersen 400 Series Frenchwood® Outswing Patio Door with Colonial Grilles
Mid-sized eclectic front yard patio in Baltimore with brick pavers and an awning.

31007 N 66th Street Cave Creek, AZ

Platinum Realty Network

Welcome to your Southwestern Adventure. Nestled on over two acres this Incredible Horse Property is a ''Ranchers'' dream! Gated front pergola covered courtyard, 92''x48''x3'', and cedar door w/speakeasy. Stunning inlaid floor t/o with stone design in foyer and coat closet.

Contemporary Patio

This is an example of a small contemporary backyard patio in Jacksonville with a fire feature, brick pavers and no cover.

Eden Prairie Kitchen and Fireplace

Stonepocket Unique Landscapes

Tim Heelan
Inspiration for a large transitional backyard patio in Minneapolis with a fire feature, brick pavers and a pergola.

Paver patios

Aspen Falls Landscape & Construction

Gorgeous entry brick pavers blend right in with the existing brick on the house.
Inspiration for a large traditional front yard patio in Denver with brick pavers and a roof extension.

South Boulevard

Texas Fine Home Builders

Beautiful back patio covered with a cedar trellis. Built by Texas Fine Home Builders, Houston
Design ideas for an expansive traditional backyard patio in Houston with brick pavers and a pergola.

Custom Cantilevered Pergola

Genus Loci Ecological Landscapes Inc.

The pergola is integrated within the framework of a complex interlocking pavement design composed of a combination of Unilock Copthorn and Brussels Block pavers.

Dallas Backyard Pool & Retreat

Harold Leidner Landscape Architects

A backyard retreat in Dallas, Texas that features a wonderful outdoor living area and luxury swimming pool. This private oasis features a custom designed covered outdoor living pavilion with exposed timber beams and stone columns. The pavilion also features an BBQ grill, outdoor kitchen and seating area for entertaining the entire family. The luxury swimming pool features a travertine terrace and limestone coping. A backdrop fountain feature with decorative spouts, urns and tile which provides a focal feature and relaxing background noise.

127th Street Project

Tiffany Farha Design

Photo of a mediterranean patio in Wichita with brick pavers.

Outdoor Spaces

Offenbachers Home Escapes

The furniture you see here features a classic English motif with clean, flowing lines. This is a substantial, enduring collection cast from high-grade, rust-free aluminum alloy. Cushions available in over 100 Sunbrella fabrics. Come see this furniture exclusively at our Reston, Virginia showroom. Or visit us online at www.HomeEscapes.com.

Spanish/Mexican Colonial

Wendy Black Rodgers Interiors

Design ideas for a patio in Phoenix with brick pavers and a water feature.

Purple Rain

Mom's Design Build

Small arts and crafts backyard patio in Minneapolis with with fireplace, brick pavers and a pergola.

Rolston Drive Covered Patio & Fireplace

ReVision Design/Remodeling

A brand new, robust drainage system hidden under the bluestone and brick patio insure proper drainage. Brick steps between the retaining walls lead up the the secret perennial garden. © Deborah Scannell Photography

Ibis Country Club - West Palm Beach, FL

Fischman Outdoor Kitchens

Inspiration for a mediterranean backyard patio in Miami with an outdoor kitchen, brick pavers and a roof extension.

Brown Patio Design Ideas with Brick Pavers

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!