This late 70's ranch style home was recently renovated with a clean, modern twist on the ranch style architecture of the existing residence. AquaTerra was hired to create the entire outdoor environment including the new pool and spa. Similar to the renovated home, this aquatic environment was designed to take a traditional pool and gives it a clean, modern twist. The site proved to be perfect for a long, sweeping curved water feature that can be seen from all of the outdoor gathering spaces as well as many rooms inside the residence. This design draws people outside and allows them to explore all of the features of the pool and outdoor spaces. Features of this resort like outdoor environment include: -Play pool with two lounge areas with LED lit bubblers -Pebble Tec Pebble Sheen Luminous series pool finish -Lightstreams glass tile -spa with six custom copper Bobe water spillway scuppers -water feature wall with three custom copper Bobe water scuppers -Fully automated with Pentair Equipment -LED lighting throughout the pool and spa -Gathering space with automated fire pit -Lounge deck area -Synthetic turf between step pads and deck -Gourmet outdoor kitchen to meet all the entertaining needs. This outdoor environment cohesively brings the clean & modern finishes of the renovated home seamlessly to the outdoors to a pool and spa for play, exercise and relaxation. Photography: Daniel Driensky

Craftsman Patio

Inspiration for a large arts and crafts backyard patio in San Francisco with a fire feature, tile and a pergola.

Outdoor Pavillion/Kitchen

Randall Smith Construction

This is an example of a large traditional backyard patio in New Orleans with brick pavers, a gazebo/cabana and a fire feature.

Backyard Renovation

Alderwood Landscape Architecture and Construction

Photo credit: www.parkscreative.com
This is an example of a large traditional backyard patio in Seattle with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Historic Adobe Remodel

Madera Builders LLC

Katie Johnson
Design ideas for a large backyard patio in Albuquerque with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Banning

Thompson Custom Homes

Steve Chenn
This is an example of a large mediterranean backyard patio in Houston with a fire feature and tile.

Pool House on a Georgian Estate

VanderHorn Architects

Directional accent lighting at each of the columns simultaneously emblazons the brick details and illuminates the outdoor room. A wood burning fire pit centered on the patio provides ambiance and warmth as the temperatures dip on cool summer nights. Gus Cantavero Photography

Complete Outdoor Kitchen with Grill, Refrigerator and Dishwasher

Land Art Design, Inc.

This kitchen includes a stone built-in grill, bead board ceiling, exposed rafters, and a stone in-lay on the formal patio. Designed and built by Land Art Design, Inc.

Denny Blaine Yardscape

SHED Architecture & Design

This is an example of a large contemporary backyard patio in Seattle with a fire feature, concrete slab and no cover.

STONE GEORGIAN, GREENWICH, CT

Granoff Architects

Large traditional backyard patio in New York with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Beacon Hill Bliss

Cording Landscape Design

Custom granite seat walls and firepit with Pennsylvania bluestone cap. Random pattern square cut PA bluestone patio surface. Red Laceleaf Japanese Maple enframes the view. Alan & Linda Detrick Photography

Drics Residence

Pro Care Horticultural Services

Pro Care Horticultural Services
Large traditional backyard patio in Indianapolis with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Farm to Table-Chappaqua NY

Legacy Construction Northeast LLC

Carol Kurth Architecture, PC , Peter Krupenye Photography
This is an example of a large traditional backyard patio in New York with a roof extension and a fire feature.

Coombs property

Father Nature Landscapes of Tacoma, Inc.

Inspiration for a large traditional backyard patio in Seattle with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Pool Pavilion

THE KING'S MASONS

This is an example of a large traditional backyard patio in DC Metro with a fire feature, tile and a roof extension.

Exterior Spaces

The Teich Group

Jeff Garland
Design ideas for a large eclectic backyard patio in Detroit with a fire feature, a pergola and natural stone pavers.

The Colony House

The Design Laboratory

Leland Gebhardt
This is an example of a large modern backyard patio in Phoenix with a fire feature and a roof extension.

SW Vista

Nifelle Design - Fine Interiors

Outdoor Living Rooms

Heartlands Building Company

This Wildwood outdoor living area has a covered deck adjoining a decorative concrete patio with seating and outdoor cooking areas. The wood-burning masonry fireplace on the deck has an outdoor tv mounted above. The cooking area on the patio is masonry and has built-in storage and Napoleon gas grill.

Newport Beach - Belcourt Remodel

David A. Kaech & Associates, Inc.

Outdoor Living - Remodel Photo by Robert Hansen
This is an example of a large contemporary backyard patio in Orange County with a fire feature, a roof extension and natural stone pavers.

Large 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!