Custom, regulation sized bags court with artificial turf!
Inspiration for a large traditional backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, brick pavers and a pergola.

Henry James New Build

Burke Homes Inc.

Design ideas for a large arts and crafts backyard patio in New Orleans with an outdoor shower, concrete slab and a roof extension.

NYC Suburb: Family-Friendly Elegance

Julie Moir Messervy Design Studio (JMMDS)

The landscape design for this property in an established New York City suburb marries stately elegance with relaxed outdoor living. The greatest challenge of the site was a considerable grade change over a small area (a third of an acre). We replaced overgrown shrubs and crumbling stonework with a clean hardscape design that clearly defines the flow around the property. A long play lawn in front is linked to a sideyard patio space and natural-gas campfire with broad bluestone block steps. A cozy dining terrace behind the house is hugged by a retaining wall that showcases friendly flowering plants and edibles. Set into the terrace wall is a custom water feature that brings sound and movement to the seating area. Exposed ledge in the backyard provides a fun playspace for adventurous kids, with a rope bridge leading to a playhouse.

William Lawrence Bottomley Designed House, New Hope

Nastasi Vail Design

Photo Credits: Genevieve Garruppo
This is an example of a large mediterranean courtyard patio in Philadelphia with a water feature.

Large fire pit set into woodland with lush plantings

Van Zelst Inc

Large raised firepit is made of Lannon stone with bluestone capping. Circular patio base is bluestone. Shade loving perennials include pachysandra ground cover, hostas, astilbe, and a specimen maple tree. Photo by Russell and Terra Jenkins

Windsor | 2016

Coats Homes

Inspiration for a large traditional backyard patio in Dallas with a roof extension, natural stone pavers and with fireplace.

Gawain

Cupic Custom Homes LLC

Felix Sanchez
This is an example of a large transitional backyard patio in Houston with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

The Perfect Patio

C&H Landscaping

Photo of a large traditional backyard patio in Denver with concrete pavers and a fire feature.

Gelman-Salop

Thomas Tait Gardens

Inspiration for a large contemporary backyard patio in San Diego with concrete pavers and a roof extension.

Seacliff Patio

SSA Landscape Architects

This is an example of a large modern backyard patio in San Francisco with stamped concrete and no cover.

HOUSE IN DORA ROAD, WIMBLEDON, London

Francesco Pierazzi Architects

A couple with two young children appointed FPA to refurbish a large semi detached Victorian house in Wimbledon Park. The property, arranged on four split levels, had already been extended in 2007 by the previous owners. The clients only wished to have the interiors updated to create a contemporary family room. However, FPA interpreted the brief as an opportunity also to refine the appearance of the existing side extension overlooking the patio and devise a new external family room, framed by red cedar clap boards, laid to suggest a chevron floor pattern. The refurbishment of the interior creates an internal contemporary family room at the lower ground floor by employing a simple, yet elegant, selection of materials as the instrument to redirect the focus of the house towards the patio and the garden: light coloured European Oak floor is paired with natural Oak and white lacquered panelling and Lava Stone to produce a calming and serene space. The solid corner of the extension is removed and a new sliding door set is put in to reduce the separation between inside and outside. Photo by Gianluca Maver

Free Standing Poolside Arbor

Southwest Fence & Deck

Large contemporary backyard patio in Dallas with a fire feature, gravel and a pergola.

Windows and Doors

Imperial Windows & Doors - Window/Door Suppliers

Design ideas for a large traditional backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen, decking and no cover.

Bluestone Patio, Woodcliff Lake, NJ

Jacobsen Landscape Design & Construction

Inspiration for a large traditional backyard patio in New York with an outdoor kitchen and tile.

Palo Alto Outdoor Kitchen

Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet

Photos by Crystal Waye
Photo of a large backyard patio in San Francisco with an outdoor kitchen and a pergola.

Warm Modern Indoor Outdoor Living

Wolf Design Studio

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

Pleasanton Outdoor Pavilion Addition

Gayler Design Build

Our client, a young executive in the cosmetics industry, wanted to take advantage of a very large, empty space between her house and pool to create a beautiful and functional outdoor living space to entertain family and clients, and to hold business meetings. Gayler Design Build, in collaboration with Jeff Culbertson/Culbertson Durst Interiors, designed and built this gorgeous Outdoor Great Room. She needed a place that could accommodate a small group of 8 for Sunday brunch, to a large corporate gathering of 35 colleagues. She wanted the outdoor great room to be contemporary (so that it coordinated with the interior of her home), comfortable and inviting.   Clearspan roof design allowed for maximum space underneath and heaters and fans were added for climate control, along with 2 TVs and a stereo system for entertaining. The bar seats 6, and has a large Fire Magic BBQ and 2 burner cooktop, 2 under counter refrigerators, a warming drawer and assorted cabinets and drawers.

Contemporary Patio

Inspiration for a large contemporary backyard patio in San Francisco with concrete pavers and a roof extension.

Johns Creek Lodge

Modern Rustic Homes

Photo of a large country backyard patio in Atlanta with a water feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Architect New Build Project

Tiles & Baths

Large format porcelain tiles for external use including steps and risers
This is an example of an expansive contemporary backyard patio in London with no cover, a fire feature and tile.

Large and Expansive 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!