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

Multilevel Backyard Retreat

Lynch Landscape and Tree Service, Inc.

Using walls and steps, we transformed this steep backyard hill into multi-level patio spaces perfect for entertaining
Expansive contemporary backyard patio in Boston with a fire feature and concrete pavers.

Garland, TX detached covered patio (cabana) and shade pergola addition

Archadeck of Northeast Dallas

This custom backyard cabana is one part of a multi-faceted outdoor design that features a stain and stamp patio and walkways, a fire pit and custom shade pergola.

Modern Farmhouse Remodel

KGA Studio Architects, PC

This is an example of an expansive country backyard patio in Denver with a fire feature.

Covered Patio and More in Northfield, OH

Archadeck of Akron OH

For the patio cover, we designed a roof with a stunning open-gable end. We used tongue and groove pine for the ceiling and wrapped all of the beams in cedar and posts in AZEK. If you look closely, you can see the steps we built for the doorway leading into the home. We used low-maintenance AZEK for the steps, an extremely durable material perfect for any high-traffic area. Also, bringing indoor comforts outdoors, we installed recessed can lights in the ceiling as well as everyone’s favorite, the ceiling fan.

Telluride Cabin

Artisan Builders LLC

Inspiration for an expansive country backyard patio in Denver with natural stone pavers, no cover and a fire feature.

LotusLand South aka Sycamore Canyon Landscape

Margie Grace - Grace Design Associates

Santa Barbara Lifestyle. A Rustic Firepit with a couple of teak couches makes for enjoying your garden into the evening with freinds.
Design ideas for an expansive country backyard patio in Santa Barbara with concrete pavers, a fire feature and no cover.

Covered Lanai

JMDG Architecture | Planning + Interiors

Giovanni Photography
Photo of an expansive transitional backyard patio in Miami with a roof extension and a fire feature.

Grand Prato Estate

Design West

The infinity-edge swimming pool, which measures 40 by 60 feet, was designed so that water flows toward a crackling fire pit in this complete backyard entetainment space.

Westcoast Craftsman Custom Home Build

Sprucehill Custom Homes & Renovations

Photo Cred: Brad Hill Imaging
Photo of an expansive arts and crafts backyard patio in Vancouver with a fire feature, tile and a roof extension.

JH Modern

Pearson Design Group

Expansive country backyard patio in Other with a fire feature, concrete slab and a roof extension.

Encanterra

Greey Pickett

Expansive traditional front yard patio in Phoenix with no cover and a fire feature.

Modern Traditional Lake House

Hyrum McKay Bates Design, Inc.

Design ideas for an expansive traditional backyard patio in Salt Lake City with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Mediterranean Patio

Inspiration for an expansive mediterranean backyard patio in San Francisco with a fire feature, tile and a pergola.

Hawaiian Plantation Retreat Outdoor Firepit Patio

Chelsea Court Designs

Design ideas for an expansive tropical side yard patio in San Francisco with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Arcadia Suburban Modern | Guest House + Outdoor Fireplace

Drewett Works

A simple desert plant palette complements the clean Modernist lines of this Arcadia-area home. Architect C.P. Drewett says the exterior color palette lightens the residence’s sculptural forms. “We also painted it in the springtime,” Drewett adds. “It’s a time of such rejuvenation, and every time I’m involved in a color palette during spring, it reflects that spirit.” Featured in the November 2008 issue of Phoenix Home & Garden, this "magnificently modern" home is actually a suburban loft located in Arcadia, a neighborhood formerly occupied by groves of orange and grapefruit trees in Phoenix, Arizona. The home, designed by architect C.P. Drewett, offers breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain from the entire main floor, guest house, and pool area. These main areas "loft" over a basement level featuring 4 bedrooms, a guest room, and a kids' den. Features of the house include white-oak ceilings, exposed steel trusses, Eucalyptus-veneer cabinetry, honed Pompignon limestone, concrete, granite, and stainless steel countertops. The owners also enlisted the help of Interior Designer Sharon Fannin. The project was built by Sonora West Development of Scottsdale, AZ.

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.

Ocean Terrace

Carte Blanche Studio

Inspiration for an expansive contemporary courtyard patio in Los Angeles with a fire feature, concrete slab and an awning.

Entertainers Paradise - Patio

Daniel Fraiman Construction

Photo of an expansive patio in Sacramento with a fire feature and concrete pavers.

Multi-level Living

Lowenoak Landscape Development

Design ideas for an expansive traditional backyard patio in Other with a fire feature, stamped concrete and no cover.

Expansive Patio Design Ideas with a Fire Feature

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!