Joana Morrison
This is an example of a mid-sized eclectic side yard patio in Los Angeles with a vertical garden, tile and no cover.

Glynallyn Terrace

Susan Cohan Gardens

Vertical garden. Self watering with recycled vintage door surround.
This is an example of a small eclectic patio in New York with a vertical garden, decking and no cover.

Dripping Springs, TX, Custom Outdoor Living Space

Archadeck of Austin

We used cedar for this substantial pergola that’s designed to provide ample shade with a Polygal cover to filter out the sun’s harsh UV rays. The Polygal material we used has thermal properties, too, so it will absorb some of the heat beaming down from above. Because the pergola cover is clear, you barely notice it’s there.

Dripping Springs, TX, Custom Outdoor Living Space

Archadeck of Austin

We have seen a trend in which homeowners want to create or upgrade the outdoor living space for a newly-purchased home before they even move in. Why not have everything ready when you get there? As soon as these Dripping Springs clients closed on their home, Austin patio builder Archadeck of Austin was on the job. We designed a beautiful and very functional patio and custom pergola for this new home. Although the yard is small, the patio is grande! Life in the Texas Hill Country is sweet, and a premium patio like this one makes it even sweeter.

Dripping Springs, TX, Custom Outdoor Living Space

Archadeck of Austin

As for finishing touches, we added a trellis wall for privacy beside the smoker and built a “more private” privacy wall beside the hot tub and swim spa. Swim spa? Yes! The homeowners moved to Dripping Springs from a home with a much larger lot that included an inground pool. They love this home and its location in the Texas Hill Country so much they were willing to trade their old pool for a swim spa.

Dripping Springs, TX, Custom Outdoor Living Space

Archadeck of Austin

R&J Patio

Mucho Verde // Arq. Jorge Ordonez

Arq. Jorge Ordonez, www.muchoverde.mx
This is an example of a small eclectic backyard patio in Other with a vertical garden and tile.

Casa Blanca

GINA FRAY DESIGN Interiors & Exteriors

Inspiration for a mid-sized eclectic courtyard patio in Phoenix with a vertical garden, brick pavers and a roof extension.

Casa Blanca

GINA FRAY DESIGN Interiors & Exteriors

Mid-sized eclectic courtyard patio in Phoenix with a vertical garden, brick pavers and a roof extension.

Flathead house

Frog Rock Design, LLP - Residential Architecture

Small eclectic courtyard patio in Other with a vertical garden, brick pavers and a pergola.

Casa RV

Mucho Verde // Arq. Jorge Ordonez

Inspiration for an eclectic side yard patio in Other with a vertical garden, decking and no cover.

Dripping Springs, TX, Custom Outdoor Living Space

Archadeck of Austin

Archadeck of Austin designed and built this patio with beautiful pavers by Belgard, and for the vertical stonework we used white limestone. Stonework included the long planters as well

Eclectic Patio Design Ideas with a Vertical Garden

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, eclectic 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 eclectic 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 eclectic 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!