Photographer: Will Keown
Inspiration for a large traditional backyard patio in Other with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Large Scale Patio and Fire Pit: Unilock Beacon Hill Flagstone Pavers

Landwork Contractors, Inc.

The natural stone coping from Unilock really helped put the finishing touch on this large scale patio. The patio was constructed over a gravel base using Unilock Beacon Hill Flagstone pavers in the Steel Mountain color with a Copthorne Basalt accent. The retaining walls, steps and fire pit were constructed using Unilock Brussels Block complimented with the Black River natural stone coping. This patio will host a lot of family and friends with over 1,800 square feet of patio.

Balmain

Think Outside Gardens

This small courtyard is a carefully designed combination of materials that allows the new and old structures to sit comfortably together and brings the whole garden up to date. The cedar bench top provides warmth to the outdoor space which is dominated by the restrained colours of the walls and flooring. While the consistent mid green colour of the planting provides structure to this garden the combination of varying leaf shapes and textures provides depth and interest. An offset layout to the bench seating allows for depth in the garden whilst the introduction of screen planting creates privacy. The result is a calming and relaxed garden in an urban setting.

West Point Lakehouse

Platinum Homes by Mark Molthan

This is an example of a beach style patio in Dallas with a fire feature and no cover.

Private Patio Lounge and Kitchen

Clemens & Associates Inc.

Photo of a backyard patio in Albuquerque with with fireplace, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Sammamish Outdoor Living

Urban Oasis Design & Construction LLC

Our clients wanted to create a backyard that would grow with their young family as well as with their extended family and friends. Entertaining was a huge priority! This family-focused backyard was designed to equally accommodate play and outdoor living/entertaining. The outdoor living spaces needed to accommodate a large number of people – adults and kids. Urban Oasis designed a deck off the back door so that the kitchen could be 36” height, with a bar along the outside edge at 42” for overflow seating. The interior space is approximate 600 sf and accommodates both a large dining table and a comfortable couch and chair set. The fire pit patio includes a seat wall for overflow seating around the fire feature (which doubles as a retaining wall) with ample room for chairs. The artificial turf lawn is spacious enough to accommodate a trampoline and other childhood favorites. Down the road, this area could be used for bocce or other lawn games. The concept is to leave all spaces large enough to be programmed in different ways as the family’s needs change. A steep slope presents itself to the yard and is a focal point. Planting a variety of colors and textures mixed among a few key existing trees changed this eyesore into a beautifully planted amenity for the property. Jimmy White Photography

Logan Avenue

Landform Design Group

Grey Giraffe
Photo of a contemporary side yard patio in Salt Lake City with with fireplace, concrete slab and no cover.

Gebogene Sitzbank für den Außenbereich

woodendesign feine möbel

Design ideas for a mid-sized country patio in Hamburg with a fire feature and no cover.

Private Courtyard Addition

The Cleary Company

Private courtyard - Outdoor shower - master suite deck
Large courtyard patio in Columbus with a water feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Landscape and Backyards

Christiano Homes, Inc.

Landscape/exterior design - Molly Wood Garden Design Design - Mindy Gayer Design Photo - Lane Dittoe
Beach style backyard patio in Orange County with a fire feature, gravel and no cover.

Guest House - Palos Verdes Estates

LaCantina Doors

Jeffrey Miller Design
Modern patio in Los Angeles.

Leucadia Mid Century

DZN Partners

PixelProFoto
Inspiration for a large midcentury side yard patio in San Diego with concrete slab and a pergola.

Mid-Century Post and Beam

Joel Reis Architecture and Real Estate Photography

This is an example of a mid-sized midcentury backyard patio in Los Angeles with stamped concrete.

Pergolas

Climate Right Construction

Inspiration for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Austin with concrete pavers and a pergola.

Pergola bois

Espaces Paysagers

Espaces Paysagers
Mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Strasbourg with decking and a pergola.

Hunts Point Exterior and Hardscape

Bakken Design Build

Photo of a large contemporary backyard patio in Other with an outdoor kitchen, tile and an awning.

Custom Coastal Cottage

Naples Bay Builders, Inc.

This is an example of a large beach style backyard patio in Other with an outdoor kitchen and a roof extension.

Seattle Cozy Patio

SCJ Studio Landscape Architecture

In Seattle's Fremont neighborhood SCJ Studio designed a new landscape to surround and set off a contemporary home by Coates Design Architects. The narrow spaces around the tall home needed structure and organization, and a thoughtful approach to layout and space programming. A concrete patio was installed with a Paloform Bento gas fire feature surrounded by lush, northwest planting. A horizontal board cedar fence provides privacy from the street and creates the cozy feeling of an outdoor room among the trees. LED low-voltage lighting by Kichler Lighting adds night-time warmth . Photography by: Miranda Estes Photography

Pool Shade Cover

Excalibur Metal Design

Pool shade cover without fencing
Photo of a contemporary backyard patio in Boise.

Outdoor Living Areas by Moccia Landscaping, Inc.

Moccia Lawn and Landscaping

Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Detroit with concrete pavers and no cover.

Green, Grey 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!