The rear of this Central Street Neighborhood yard floods regularly during heavy rains. Rather than fight mother nature, Prassas Landscape Studio created a rain garden to store excess stormwater until it can percolate into the soil. The rain garden is also fed by the roof’s runoff and basement’s sump pump through a contemporary steel runnel. Stone steppers penetrate a curved wall to lead to the back firepit seating area. The upper terrace stairs were modernized and the lower terrace was reconfigured. Darris Lee Harris Photography

Euro Patio Sauna

Finnleo Sauna

A Finnleo Euro Patio outdoor sauna was installed under the deck at this Michigan home. Near the pool, homeowners are able to enjoy the ultimate experience of "sauna with a cool water plunge". Beautiful, modern design, durable & welcoming, this Euro Patio is an ongoing invitation to enjoy the great outdoors.

Patio: Louvered Roof with Ocean-View - Pacific Palisades

Biossun - Louvered Patio Cover

Discover this incredible adjustable patio cover in California. Our louvered roof is perfect to see this gorgeous view of the ocean.
This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with a pergola.

THE ELEMENTAL / Ashwin Architects

Ashwin Architects

This is an example of a modern patio in Bengaluru.

Kallman Residence

J Paul Builders

Photo of a backyard patio in Baltimore with an outdoor kitchen and a gazebo/cabana.

Outdoor Living with Fire Pit & Pergola

Burkhart Outdoors, Inc.

Unilock Olde Quarry Stone Blocks River Color with Ledgestone Grey Coping & Copthorne Basalt Sailor Detail. Belgard Laffit Paver Floor
This is an example of a mid-sized country backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a pergola.

The Patio

Conscious Environments Inc.

Design ideas for a mid-sized beach style backyard patio in Orange County with concrete pavers and a pergola.

Englewood, New Jersey Retaining Wall

Techo-Bloc

This retaining wall project in inspired by our Travertina Raw stone. The Travertina Raw collection has been extended to a double-sided, segmental retaining wall system. This product mimics the texture of natural travertine in a concrete material for wall blocks. Build outdoor raised planters, outdoor kitchens, seating benches and more with this wall block. This product line has enjoyed huge success and has now been improved with an ultra robust mix design, making it far more durable than the natural alternative. This is a perfect solution in freeze-thaw climates. Check out our website to shop the look! https://www.techo-bloc.com/shop/walls/travertina-raw/

BACKYARD LIVING

H&M Landscaping

Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Cleveland with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Front Paver Patio & Gathering Space, with Pathway and LED Lighting

J.R. Thomas Landscaping, Inc.

Front sitting stone patio with step out and seat wall to create a unique gathering space for this Hyde Park home; sized to accommodate 3-4 people sitting, with minimal landscape, sodding and natural stone pathway leading to the drive; installation of LED landscape lighting and plantings for year-round impact and enjoyment

Oak Framed Garage, Harrogate

architecture:ab ltd

Green Oak Garden Room
Photo of a mid-sized country backyard patio in Other with brick pavers and a pergola.

Riverside Splash

Evalutions by Aubuchon Design Group

Inspiration for a contemporary backyard patio in Tampa with tile, a roof extension and an outdoor kitchen.

A Poolscape to be Enjoyed Year-Round

Outdoor Dreams

Large traditional backyard patio in Richmond with concrete pavers and a pergola.

Holladay Residence

Clayton Vance Architecture

Large traditional backyard patio in Salt Lake City with no cover, a fire feature and natural stone pavers.

Texan's Carmel Inspired Retreat

Alterra Landscape Design

Design ideas for a large transitional backyard patio in Dallas with with fireplace, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Skylake Residence

Agsia Design Group

Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Miami with tile and a roof extension.

Edible Landscapes

Sweet Smiling Landscapes

Edible landscaping encompasses much more then adding some veggie beds to one’s property. Creative layouts and material usage can incorporate year-round vegetable harvests in an aesthetically pleasing way. Perennial fruit trees, along with bushes and herbs, create a lush space full of beautiful, colors, textures, smells and tastes. Searching out and experimenting with different and rare varieties of edible plants keeps home gardens interesting. Edible landscaping gives access to food at its freshest, when it is most nutritious, and offers many more options than supermarket produce sections—also cutting down on transportation and packaging impacts. From edible estates to food forests, or simple integration of garden-based food production, Sweet Smiling Landscapes has the knowledge and experience to help home owners harvest their own bounty.

Ranch Hacienda

Argue Custom Homes

This is an example of a mediterranean courtyard patio in Phoenix with a water feature and no cover.

A private courtyard garden with a pool

Cassandra Lohr Design International Inc.

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional courtyard patio in Denver with natural stone pavers and no cover.

Perlita

THREESIXNINE

Photo of an eclectic patio in Los Angeles.

Green 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!