Design ideas for a contemporary patio in Phoenix.

Indoor/Outdoor Spaces

Bertolami Interiors

This is an example of a contemporary patio in San Francisco.

Cozy Backyard Patio

SCJ Studio Landscape Architecture - Montana

A forgotten backyard space was reimagined and transformed by SCJ Studio for outdoor living, dining, entertaining, and play. A terraced approach was needed to meet up with existing grades to the alley, new concrete stairs with integrated lighting, paving, built-in benches, a turf area, and planting were carefully thought through.

Hopen Place Hollywood Hills glass wall mid-century modern luxury home, backyard

Whipple Russell Architects

Hopen Place Hollywood Hills glass wall mid-century modern luxury home, backyard view. Photo by William MacCollum.
Photo of an expansive contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with a fire feature, tile and a roof extension.

Sa Talaia House

LUV Architecture & Design

Contemporary courtyard patio in Barcelona with a container garden, gravel and no cover.

TREE HOUSE

Marvin

We call this home in Westport, CT the "Tree House" , because of it's unique setting down a long private drive, set on a sloping hill surrounded by protected woodlands. From every vantage point in the house we wanted to see eye level with the beautiful mature deciduous trees.. The Integrity fixed, casement and awning windows were successfully used to wrap the corners as well as provide "framed picture windows", giving an enhanced feeling like that of being in a big tree house.

Cooke Santa Barbara Fire Pit Table

COOKE

This is a great example of how Cooke accommodates the design needs of our customers. This Santa Barbara fire pit table compliments this compact patio space by blending in, not being too noisy or obtrusive. The grey powdercoat color leaves an opportunity for a bright accent piece, colorful flora, furniture, and lighting to play a larger role in visually defining this space. Our customers love being able to use Cooke colors to bring a theme and a feeling of completeness to their outdoor space. We'd also like to point out that this is a propane model. The refillable tank is neatly stored in the base of the table, accessed via the small door visible in this picture. This is a great option for those who like rearranging their spaces. Natural gas models are also available. The small silver dial underneath the table top offers precise and safe flame control.

Tufnell Road

YKDesigns

Photo of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Brisbane with decking and a roof extension.

An Entertainer's Dream

Zones Landscaping Auckland Central Monique Nielsen

Contemporary patio in Auckland.

Del Mar Exterior Renovation

SJS Studios Inc.

Bluestone Pavers, custom Teak Wood banquette with cement tile inlay, Bluestone firepit, custom outdoor kitchen with Teak Wood, concrete waterfall countertop with Teak surround.

Modern Residence

Taylor Lombardo Architects

Adrián Gregorutti
Photo of a contemporary courtyard patio in San Francisco with no cover, a fire feature and gravel.

Mulik Residence

Currin Outdoor Living

Large contemporary backyard patio in Raleigh with a fire feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Expansive Covered Patio

Angela Wells Interior Design

Trent Teigen
This is an example of an expansive contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with a fire feature, tile and a roof extension.

Hillside

CMF Homebuilders

Linda Dahan
Contemporary patio in Los Angeles.

Natural stone stairs and armour stone

Horvath Landscapes

plutadesigns
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Toronto with natural stone pavers and no cover.

Fire Pits

KD Landscape

Small contemporary backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, brick pavers and no cover.

Guggenhill Residence

KA DesignWorks

This is an example of a large contemporary backyard patio in Denver with a fire feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Mordialloc 01

Naxos Group

Our feature courtyard in the trendy suburb of Mordialloc. This outdoor living space features an outdoor entertainers dream set up: 6 burner BeefEater BBQ, Outdoor Heating, BOSE Outdoor Speakers, Mood Lighting & a double door bar fridge.

Appleton Way

Peters Architecture

Clark Dugger Photography
Large contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen, concrete slab and a roof extension.

Toronto Condo Balcony

STC Builders

This is an example of a large contemporary backyard patio in Toronto with an outdoor kitchen, concrete pavers and no cover.

Contemporary Purple 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!