Real Property Photography | Sunshine Coast South

Design ideas for a contemporary patio in Sunshine Coast with tile and a roof extension.

This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Brisbane with an outdoor kitchen, tile and a gazebo/cabana.

Nouveaux horizons - Terrasse

Stéphane Larcin - Concepteur - Paysagiste

Révéler et magnifier les vues sur l'horizon parisien grâce au végétal et créer des espaces de détente et de vie en lien avec l'architecture intérieure de l'appartement : telles sont les intentions majeures de ce projet de toit-terrasse.

Hunts Point Exterior and Hardscape

Bakken Design Build

Photo of a large contemporary backyard patio in Other with an outdoor kitchen, tile and an awning.

Fulham Courtyard

Lucy Willcox Garden Design

This Courtyard was transformed from being an Astro Turf box to a useable, versatile Outdoor Room!
Small contemporary backyard patio in London with tile and a pergola.

Villa Linda

Ryan Hughes Design

Palm trees tower above this tropical outdoor space that glows in the outdoor singing as the sun goes down. Included is an expansive pool, and experience- full outdoor area. Geometrical angles and elements create a complex but complete outdoor living space with a fire lounge, chaise lounge shelf, spa, outdoor living areas, outdoor kitchen, water wall, and stone tile surfaces all designed by RYAN HUGHES Design Build. Photography by Jimi Smith.

Tropez Lake House

John West Stoddard, Inc.

Design ideas for a large contemporary backyard patio in Austin with a roof extension, an outdoor kitchen and tile.

Hale Kahakai

Pu'uwai Design & Construction

Beautiful Living Lanai space. This charming outdoor space inspires indoor outdoor living and serves spectacular sunsets over a lush green golf course with a stunning ocean view.

Open and Outdoor Living

Presidential Pools, Spas & Patio

Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Phoenix with an outdoor kitchen, tile and a gazebo/cabana.

Outdoor Kitchen

Raindrum Design

Madeleine Douglas
This is an example of a large contemporary backyard patio in Philadelphia with an outdoor kitchen, tile and an awning.

Interior and Exterior Lighting

Hinkley

Voted Best of Westchester by Westchester Magazine for several years running, HI-LIGHT is based in Yonkers, New York only fifteen miles from Manhattan. After more than thirty years it is still run on a daily basis by the same family. Our children were brought up in the lighting business and work with us today to continue the HI-LIGHT tradition of offering lighting and home accessories of exceptional quality, style, and price while providing the service our customers have come to expect. Come and visit our lighting showroom in Yonkers.

Doonan Glass House

Sarah Waller Architecture

Anastasia Kariorfyllidis
Inspiration for a contemporary backyard patio in Sunshine Coast with tile and a roof extension.

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.

Intimate Patio Retreat

Rooftopia, LLC

This small backyard landscape sandwiched between home and garage, was transformed from a drab weed patch into a stunning outdoor breakfast nook! Porcelain patio pavers were carefully installed for improved drainage to move water away from the home. A new cedar fence was installed between neighboring lots. A custom cedar trellis was installed over the garage facade, to draw attention away from the garage siding, framing windows and foliage. Pretty white planters, large hydrangea blooms, crisp lime green hostas and purple pansies add color and brightness to this shaded retreat. LED lighting and irrigation systems were also integrated into the landscape.

Key Biscayne Pool & Kitchen

Somar Pools

The existing pool was way too large for the space, it took up the entire back yard.
Mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Miami with an outdoor kitchen, tile and a pergola.

SALEM OUTDOOR

Anne Carr Design

Photo of a small contemporary backyard patio in New York with tile and no cover.

Constance

Becker Studios

Inspiration for a large contemporary backyard patio in Santa Barbara with a fire feature, tile and no cover.

Livingston, NJ - Full Backyard and Landscape Design

K&C Land Design and Construction LLC

Full Landscape Design and Construction including In Ground Pool and Spa, Cabana, Outdoor Kitchen, Outdoor Fireplace, Waterfalls, Water slide, Natural Stone patio and Custom Deck Design.

Rembrandt Residence

LaCantina Doors

Design: Abodwell Interior Design | Photographer: Dennis Owen — in Laguna Beach, CA.
Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Orange County with no cover and tile.

House on the Hill

LaRue Architects

Photo Credit: Casey Dunn
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary side yard patio in Austin with a fire feature, tile and a roof extension.

Contemporary Patio Design Ideas with Tile

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!