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.

KITCHEN GARDEN

URBANSCAPING LTD

Contemporary backyard patio in London with brick pavers and no cover.

Channahon Brick Patio

KD Landscape

This two-tiered space offers lower level seating near the swimming pool and upper level seating for a view of the Illinois River. Planter boxes with annuals, perennials and container plantings warm the space. The retaining walls add additional seating space and a small grill enclosure is tucked away in the corner.

Downtown Charleston- Prices Alley Remodel

Renaissance South Construction Co.

Photos by Holger Obenaus
Design ideas for a small contemporary courtyard patio in Charleston with brick pavers and no cover.

2015 Midwest Home Luxury Home #1 - Denali Custom Homes

Spacecrafting / Architectural Photography

Builder: Denali Custom Homes - Architectural Designer: Alexander Design Group - Interior Designer: Studio M Interiors - Photo: Spacecrafting Photography

Contemporary Patio

Inspiration for a contemporary patio in Sussex with brick pavers and a fire feature.

Victorian Workers Cottage Addition

Danny Broe Architect

Photography: Karina Illovska The garden now includes a carspace but to soften its impact and to create texture we used the recycled bricks from the original house as paving.

2019 Gold Award - Residential 50-150m², ecodesign

LDI (Landscape Design Institute)

Mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Sydney with brick pavers and a roof extension.

New Urban Garden

SED Design

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

Greenwich Park Garden

David Berarducci Landscape Architecture

Photo of a small contemporary courtyard patio in Boston with a water feature and brick pavers.

Uptown Dallas condo

Dallas Property Photos

Viorel Bucur
Inspiration for a small contemporary side yard patio in Dallas with brick pavers.

Patio, Fire Pit, and Pond

Ross and Jack's Landscaping Inc.

Patio and Fire Pit Area Bordered by Natural Stone Pond
Large contemporary backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, brick pavers and no cover.

The Courtyard

sticks and stones Landscape Design

Design ideas for a small contemporary courtyard patio in Sydney with a fire feature and brick pavers.

Mather St. Garage

SHELTERWERK

Chi Fang Photography (Photography)
Contemporary patio in Other with brick pavers and no cover.

Lower Shaughnessy Condo Renovation

Westwood Heritage

Photo of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Vancouver with brick pavers and no cover.

Sutherland Place

Home Fotografy

Lukasz Gorczynski
Photo of a contemporary patio in London with brick pavers and no cover.

Aberdeen Planter (L32" X W10" X H16")

Decorpro

ABERDEEN PLANTER (L32” X W10” X H16”) Planters Product Dimensions (IN): L32” X W10” X H16” Product Weight (LB): 29 Product Dimensions (CM): L81.3 X W25.4 X H40.6 Product Weight (KG): 13.1 Aberdeen Planter (L32” X W10” X H16”) is part of an exclusive line of all-season, weatherproof planters. Available in 43 colours, Aberdeen is split-resistant, warp-resistant and mildew-resistant. A lifetime warranty product, this planter can be used throughout the year, in every season–winter, spring, summer, and fall. Made of a durable, resilient fiberglass resin material, the Aberdeen will withstand any weather condition–rain, snow, sleet, hail, and sun. Complementary to any focal area in the home or garden, Aberdeen is a vibrant accent piece as well as an eye-catching decorative feature. Plant a variety of colourful flowers and lush greenery in Aberdeen to optimize the planter’s dimension and depth. Aberdeen’s elongated rectangular shape makes it a versatile, elegant piece for any room indoors, and any space outdoors. By Decorpro Home + Garden. Each sold separately. Materials: Fiberglass resin Gel coat (custom colours) All Planters are custom made to order. Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. Made in Canada ABOUT PLANTER WARRANTY ANTI-SHOCK WEATHERPROOF DRAINAGE HOLES AND PLUGS INNER LIP LIGHTWEIGHT

Washington Property

Paradise Restored Landscaping & Exterior Design

outdoor living space, outdoor seating, water feature, water falls, ponds, hardscaping, concrete pavers, retaining walls
Design ideas for a contemporary patio in Portland with brick pavers and a water feature.

Ultimate Outdoor Entertainment Space

Luxury Pool Designs by Beall's

Lounge area near kitchen for watching the game
Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Other with an outdoor kitchen, brick pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Brussels Block brick paver patio & outdoor dinning areas

Eurobrick

Closeup of the detail of the custom Brussels Dimensional Stone outdoor bar capped with custom Thermal Bluestone slabs.
Photo of a contemporary backyard patio in Chicago with an outdoor kitchen, brick pavers and no cover.

Contemporary 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, 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!