This back yard was designed to include multi-level sitting areas. Patio constructed with stamped concrete, Gold-Ore Boulders used for retaining lower area. Gas Fire pit makes for focal point of lower area. Littleton, Colorado. Photo: Ron Ruscio Browne and Associates Custom Landscapes.

West Hollywood Refresher

Valle de Verde

The guiding concept was to create a sense of place that balances the theatrical with feelings of serenity, joy, and retreat from the sprawling city. Low maintenance elements such as concrete pavers, ipe, gravel, Agaves, Fortnight Lillies, Ornamental Plums, and Cape Rush are sympathetic to the demands of the client's busy schedule. Photo by Eric Brandon Gomez

Umatilla

Realarchitecture Ltd

Inspiration for a large contemporary backyard patio in Denver with an outdoor kitchen, decking and an awning.

galnick exterior

Identity Construction

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

1215 Cheyenne

3rd Street Custom Homes

Contemporary backyard patio in Dallas with a roof extension.

Gold Skies

Pro-Land Landscape Construction Inc.

The previous state of the client's backyard did not function as they needed it to, nor did it reflect their taste. They wanted enough space for entertaining company, but also somewhere comfortable to relax just the two of them. They wanted to display some of their unique sculptures, which we needed to consider throughout the design. A pergola off the house created an intimate space for them to unwind with a cup of coffee in the morning. A few steps away is a second lounge area with a fire feature, this was designed to accommodate for the grade change of the yard. Walls and steps frame the space and tie into the built vegetable beds. From any angle of the property you are able to look onto green garden beds, which create a soft division in front of the new fencing and is the perfect way to add colour back into the landscape.

Royal Tunbridge Wells

Grillo Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor kitchen project in Tunbridge Wells with 7-seat integrated bar-height table, integrated four-burner gas grill, Chef’s Anvil wood-burning barbeque, two planters and custom-height iroko uprights. Garden design by Karen McClure Garden & Landscape Design, karenmcclure.co.uk

Claude Road, Manchetser

Butterfield Architecture

Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary patio in Manchester.

Levitación

Bianchi Design

Contemporary patio in Phoenix.

Contemporary Open Home

ClearOvations

Design ideas for a large contemporary patio in Denver.

Fire Features

Camosse Masonry Supply

Rustic Style Fire Feature - Techo-Bloc's Valencia Fire Pit with custom caps.
Design ideas for a large contemporary backyard patio in Boston with a fire feature, stamped concrete and a gazebo/cabana.

Maruccia Residence

Promise Path Landscaping Inc

Outdoor fireplace with concrete caps with a smooth finish, to match new concrete on patio. Coastal reef veneers tone from El Dorado to face new Outdoor fire pit. Vintage string lights on top to create the perfect ambiance.

Saratoga Creek House

WA Design Architects

Photo credit: WA design
This is an example of a large contemporary backyard patio in San Francisco with a fire feature, concrete slab and no cover.

3 - Portola Valley Residence

Stoecker and Northway Architects, Inc.

This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in San Francisco with a fire feature and no cover.

Bill Residence

IRI Landscape

Montgomery Street, Mordialloc

Kiril Architects

Design ideas for a contemporary patio in Melbourne with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

British West Indies Inspired Custom Home in Winter Park Florida

Element Home Builders

Inspiration for a large contemporary backyard patio in Orlando with a fire feature, a roof extension and natural stone pavers.

"Sur le Green"

MARTIAL

Philippe MARTIAL- Cédric CHASSE
Photo of a contemporary patio in Nantes.

Sanctuary House on Fidalgo Island

MusaDesign Interior Design

Walls of windows are aluminum frames to the bay. Inside, in the living room, is a sculpture by Seattle artist Joe McDonnell. Outside is a firepit, inside a gas fireplace. (Benjamin Benschneider)

NYC Townhouse – Architecture for Art Collectors

The Turett Collaborative

Both the ground floor with kitchen, dining room and patio and the second floor family and living room have clear views from front to rear.
Contemporary patio in New York with no cover.

Contemporary 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, contemporary 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 contemporary 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 contemporary 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!