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.

French Mediterranean Palace Courtyard

Califia Ecodesign

Elegant entry adorned with low water, edible and pollinator friendly plants in this shady French Pasadena nook
Inspiration for a large courtyard patio in Los Angeles with a container garden, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Oshry Residence

spfa

Expansive contemporary courtyard patio in Los Angeles with concrete slab and no cover.

Arroyo View Spanish Mediteranean

The Design Studio of Wendy Harper

This is the homes inner courtyard featuring Terra-cotta tile paving with hand-painted Mexican tile keys, a fire pit and bench. Photographer: Riley Jamison Realtor: Tim Freund, website: tim@1000oaksrealestate.com

View with Cider Press & Benches

Haver & Skolnick LLC Architects

Teak benches on either side of the garden afford shady spots to enjoy the fountain. Robert Benson Photography
Inspiration for a large country courtyard patio in New York with a water feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

House in Historic Belle Meade, Nashville

Studio 511

Regency style home has a wonderful space off the kitchen, a walled courtyard with a fountain and brick floor. Flowering vines cover the pergola over the doorway to the kitchen.

City: McDougald Residence

Linda McDougald Design | Postcard from Paris Home

Linda McDougald, principal and lead designer of Linda McDougald Design l Postcard from Paris Home, re-designed and renovated her home, which now showcases an innovative mix of contemporary and antique furnishings set against a dramatic linen, white, and gray palette. The English country home features floors of dark-stained oak, white painted hardwood, and Lagos Azul limestone. Antique lighting marks most every room, each of which is filled with exquisite antiques from France. At the heart of the re-design was an extensive kitchen renovation, now featuring a La Cornue Chateau range, Sub-Zero and Miele appliances, custom cabinetry, and Waterworks tile.

New Construction - Drexel Ave. West Hollywood

Luxe Remodel

This is an example of a large mediterranean courtyard patio in Los Angeles with a fire feature, gravel and no cover.

Modern Colonial

Derrick Architecture

Outdoor patio odd the sunroom provides views of the pool and any approaching guests. The arched pass through is reminiscent of a horse farm.
Expansive traditional courtyard patio in Chicago with brick pavers and a pergola.

Private Courtyard Addition

The Cleary Company

Private courtyard - Master suite deck
Design ideas for a large transitional courtyard patio in Columbus with a water feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Perry Park Residence and Equestrian Facility - Patio Area

Vertical Arts Architecture

Patio area with hot tub and seating area.
This is an example of a large contemporary courtyard patio in Denver with a fire feature, tile and a pergola.

Moorish-Inspired Hacienda Courtyard

Clemens & Associates Inc.

Entrance to a Mediterranean style courtyard with Moorish influence. Rustic wood antique gates open into a lush, brick-paved courtyard with plush outdoor furnishing and a carved fountain with hand-painted tiles. Photo Credit: Kirk Gittings

Centor Screening System

Shade And Shutter Systems, Inc

These Retractable Screens are top of the line luxury with built in, full enclosed, pulley systems designed to give two finger control. These screens may stop anywhere within the travel path and are not operated by a full tension spring. Most retractable screens of this size have large "full tension springs" that are under heavy loads while the screen is deployed. These springs will often pull out of the user's hands as they try to open the screen to pass through. The retractable screen you see in this photo will go up to 10' tall x 24' wide, with a completely clear opening. The screens are also available in insect screen, solar screen, privacy screen, and combination screens. They are completely incased and have billet aluminum frames. This Retractable Screen is the perfect solution to the Custom Builder or Architect needing a large span screen solution. These are also great for noise abatement within open floor plan homes and structures. Knock down echoes, close off TV or office spaces, or create sections within a large space for a more intimate setting in seconds. Our Product Specialists are always available to speak with at 800-522-1599 if you would like more information.

MId West Magic

User

This is an example of an expansive traditional courtyard patio in Cincinnati with a fire feature, tile and no cover.

Outdoor Fireplaces

Fratantoni Luxury Estates Design/Build/Remodeling

A luxury courtyard or patio is not complete without an outdoor fireplace or fire pit! To see more outdoor fireplace ideas by Fratantoni Luxury Estates be sure to follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter and Instagram!!

West Los Angeles Mansion (Traditional-Style)

MSH Design, Inc.

Photo of an expansive mediterranean courtyard patio in Los Angeles with natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Outdoor Fireplace - Natural Stone Fireplace

Master Stone Design, LLC

This great outdoor living area is perfect for the quite getaway or for entertaining friends. The colors of this Tennessee fieldstone are spectacular and go great with the lighter travertine. One of my favorites. Great seating walls beside the fireplace Beautiful patterned travertine natural stone patio!! Tennessee Fieldstone with a grout joint

Courtyard lounge and outdoor seating in Naples Florida vacation home

Summer Thornton Design, Inc

Courtyard with blue and white pillows in Naples Florida home. This mediterranean style home has curved arches and exposed wood beams that create a cozy atmosphere for outdoor lounging to escape the sun while listening to the courtyard fountain. Project featured in House Beautiful & Florida Design. Interiors & Styling by Summer Thornton. Imagery by Brantley Photography.

Spurwink Retreat

Whitten Architects

Trent Bell Photography
This is an example of an expansive contemporary courtyard patio in Portland Maine with natural stone pavers and no cover.

Outdoor Living Space

Fratantoni Interior Designers

French Villa features an outdoor patio space that consists of comfy patio seating for seven in black iron sofas and chairs with cream cushions. Decorated with black and white throw pillows and two coffee tables centers the space. A built-in fireplace acts as the focal point of the space. A freestanding console table sits behind the seating area for added decor & storage. Space overlooks the pool and staircase leading to rooftop.

Courtyard 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, 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!