A white boardform feature wall ground the home and outdoor area. A minimalist water feature, ribbon fire feature and concrete fire table provide alluring natural elements to congregate around. The concrete and metal bar height allows the guests to gaze above the sofa seating and out to the ocean. Photo Credit: John Ellis

Rich materials and strong geometries match the resolve of the brick. Cast concrete countertops and stainless steel cabinetry create a contemporary cooking space. The curved teak and stainless steel island has two tiers: one for the prep area and appliances, and a higher level for bar stool seating with direct views to a large, flat-screen television. Photography Gus Cantavero

Don Bloom Tropical Light Photography
Photo of an expansive tropical backyard patio in Hawaii with a gazebo/cabana and natural stone pavers.

SoCal Contractor Construction Erika Bierman Photography
Photo of an expansive traditional backyard patio in Los Angeles with natural stone pavers and no cover.

Expansive country backyard patio in San Francisco with gravel and a gazebo/cabana.

Piston Design
Photo of an expansive mediterranean backyard verandah in Houston.

Pavilion at night. At center is a wood-burning fire pit with a custom copper hood. An internal fan in the flue pulls smoke up and out of the pavilion. Octagonal fire pit and spa are on axis with the home's octagonal dining table up the slope and inside the house. At right is the bathroom, at left is the outdoor kitchen. I designed this outdoor living project when at CG&S, and it was beautifully built by their team. Photo: Paul Finkel 2012

Muted colors lead you to The Victoria, a 5,193 SF model home where architectural elements, features and details delight you in every room. This estate-sized home is located in The Concession, an exclusive, gated community off University Parkway at 8341 Lindrick Lane. John Cannon Homes, newest model offers 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, great room, dining room and kitchen with separate dining area. Completing the home is a separate executive-sized suite, bonus room, her studio and his study and 3-car garage. Gene Pollux Photography

Dan Cutrona
This is an example of an expansive traditional three-storey grey exterior in Boston with wood siding.

Design ideas for an expansive country patio in Austin with natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

This is an example of an expansive country backyard patio in Orange County with a roof extension and natural stone pavers.

This is an example of an expansive tropical patio in San Diego with a gazebo/cabana.

Design ideas for an expansive contemporary deck in Frankfurt with a roof extension.

Nestled between the tennis court and swimming pool, this pavilion fulfills a Greenwich family’s desire for gracious outdoor entertaining. Gus Cantavero Photography