Modern patio in Phoenix with a water feature.

Tom Nunn
Design ideas for a mid-sized country backyard patio in Toronto with a water feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

outdoor living Stone Harbor bay front

E.R.Dietz Masonry

Photo of a mid-sized beach style backyard patio in Philadelphia with a water feature, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Cable Rails Installation

Metal Innovations

Stainless Steel Cable Rail Los Angeles 2
Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary side yard patio in Los Angeles with a water feature and no cover.

Family Size Pergolas

Western Timber Frame

Western Timber Frame freestanding natural finished Family Size pergola for covering over hot tub. Photo courtesy of Brad Lavery
Traditional patio in Salt Lake City with a water feature and a pergola.

Contemporary Prarie Home

Platinum Companies

Large contemporary backyard patio in Phoenix with a water feature, tile and a gazebo/cabana.

Atlantic Beach Contemporary Compact Backyard

Cascade Outdoor Design

Small spaces can provide big challenges. These homeowners wanted to include a lot in their tiny backyard! There were also numerous city restrictions to comply with, and elevations to contend with. The design includes several seating areas, a fire feature that can be seen from the home's front entry, a water wall, and retractable screens. This was a "design only" project. Installation was coordinated by the homeowner and completed by others. Photos copyright Cascade Outdoor Design, LLC

Indoor Courtyards (Mediterranean Style)

Ancient Surfaces

Image by 'Ancient Surfaces' Product: 'Indoor Courtyard stone elements' Contacts: (212) 461-0245 Email: Sales@ancientsurfaces.com Website: www.AncientSurfaces.com Central Mediterranean courtyards within homes of all major South European design styles, featuring antique stone pavers, fountains, columns and more...

Screened Patio with Travertine and Fountain

Eileen G Designs

This is an example of a mid-sized modern backyard patio in Miami with a water feature and natural stone pavers.

Silverlake Sustainable

Barefoot Landscape

This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with a water feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Showcase - Backyard Retreat

Sisson Landscapes

Sisson Landscapes
Design ideas for a small contemporary backyard patio in DC Metro with a water feature and natural stone pavers.

Manor

David R. Lamb, Landscape Architect

This is an example of a large traditional courtyard patio in New York with a water feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Toronto Condo Balcony

STC Builders

Inspiration for a large contemporary backyard patio in Toronto with concrete pavers, no cover and a water feature.

Midtown Mobile Classical Revival Restoration

Pete J. Vallas, A.I.A., Architect

The slightly raised Koi pond directs guests to the front entrance door beneath the overhanging balcony above.
This is an example of a large traditional courtyard patio in Miami with a water feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Himmelman Residence

Urban Landscape

Inspiration for a mid-sized modern backyard patio in Orange County with a water feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Little Eden

Aralia: Innovation in Landscape Design

his rural hertfordshire property plays host to a Grade II listed house and a separate period outbuilding which have both had various architectural additions over the century, resulting in the creation of a narrow, empty corridor; prompting the need for an external garden design. The challenge for Aralia in this herts garden design was to unify the two opposing buildings and overcome the difficulties posed by numerous access points, all in the space of a small courtyard of less than two hundred square meters. The clients request was to create a garden which blurred the strong geometry of the buildings through a curvilinear design, whilst incorporating multiple opportunities for seating to relax and unwind. The garden very much holds a traditional feel through the choice of materials and planting in order to be sympathetic towards the architecture, surrounding landscape and local aesthetic. Upon first entering the property, visitors are greeted by a pair of beautifully crafted Iroko gates, framed by two heritage brick planters which house a lush beech hedge, concealing elements of the journey ahead. Three sizes of autumnal riven sandstone are used to negotiate the curves and create a subtle flow and legibility to the journey, whilst naturalistic perennials and grasses soften the space and create narrative. Plants such as Astrantia, Perovskia, Deschampsia and Echinacea are used throughout the borders to create rhythm and repetition whilst green Oak arches frame snippets of these views, anchoring the path between the buildings as the garden progresses. The culmination of the garden is signified by a circular terrace which is controlled and held in place by the beautifully weathered curved oak seats, housing cut logs underneath to create pattern and shape. Two small water chutes bubble away in the background creating a relaxing atmosphere whilst the user can sit and take advantage of tranquil views across the rest of the garden.

S-D

HaiJoe Stamped Concrete Patios and Decks

PA flagstone around the pool completed and this project was over 2000ft over flagstone with concrete under.
Inspiration for an expansive traditional backyard patio in Other with a water feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Luxurious Resort Style Outdoor Pool Space

Dawn Cook Design

Large transitional backyard patio in Cleveland with a water feature, stamped concrete and no cover.

Concrete Water, Fire and Vegetation Table

User

Cast concrete table pours into a pondless water feature below. Hidden gas line can be lit up at night for added ambience.
Inspiration for an expansive contemporary backyard patio with a water feature, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Rancho Mirage Villa

Danielian Associates Architecture + Planning

Design ideas for a mediterranean patio in Orange County with a water feature.

Grey Patio Design Ideas with a Water 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!