Photo of a large contemporary backyard patio in Boston with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Arcadia Remodel

AFT Construction

Design ideas for a large tropical backyard patio in Phoenix with an outdoor kitchen, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Pavillions

Archadeck of Northwest Dallas

Large mediterranean backyard patio in Dallas with an outdoor kitchen, concrete slab and a gazebo/cabana.

Something for Every Season

Outdoor Dreams

Design ideas for a large arts and crafts backyard patio in Richmond with an outdoor kitchen, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Timberframe Free-standing Roof

Tenhulzen Residential

Timberframe with exposed cardecking over sanded concrete patio.
Inspiration for a large traditional backyard patio in Seattle with a gazebo/cabana, an outdoor kitchen and concrete slab.

Villa à Toulon

KAST DESIGN

This is an example of a large beach style side yard patio in Paris with an outdoor kitchen, concrete slab and a pergola.

Transitional Patio

This is an example of a large transitional backyard patio in Miami with an outdoor kitchen, tile and a roof extension.

Coastal Mediterranean Redesign

JRP Design & Remodel

This home had a kitchen that wasn’t meeting the family’s needs, nor did it fit with the coastal Mediterranean theme throughout the rest of the house. The goals for this remodel were to create more storage space and add natural light. The biggest item on the wish list was a larger kitchen island that could fit a family of four. They also wished for the backyard to transform from an unsightly mess that the clients rarely used to a beautiful oasis with function and style. One design challenge was incorporating the client’s desire for a white kitchen with the warm tones of the travertine flooring. The rich walnut tone in the island cabinetry helped to tie in the tile flooring. This added contrast, warmth, and cohesiveness to the overall design and complemented the transitional coastal theme in the adjacent spaces. Rooms alight with sunshine, sheathed in soft, watery hues are indicative of coastal decorating. A few essential style elements will conjure the coastal look with its casual beach attitude and renewing seaside energy, even if the shoreline is only in your mind's eye. By adding two new windows, all-white cabinets, and light quartzite countertops, the kitchen is now open and bright. Brass accents on the hood, cabinet hardware and pendant lighting added warmth to the design. Blue accent rugs and chairs complete the vision, complementing the subtle grey ceramic backsplash and coastal blues in the living and dining rooms. Finally, the added sliding doors lead to the best part of the home: the dreamy outdoor oasis! Every day is a vacation in this Mediterranean-style backyard paradise. The outdoor living space emphasizes the natural beauty of the surrounding area while offering all of the advantages and comfort of indoor amenities. The swimming pool received a significant makeover that turned this backyard space into one that the whole family will enjoy. JRP changed out the stones and tiles, bringing a new life to it. The overall look of the backyard went from hazardous to harmonious. After finishing the pool, a custom gazebo was built for the perfect spot to relax day or night. It’s an entertainer’s dream to have a gorgeous pool and an outdoor kitchen. This kitchen includes stainless-steel appliances, a custom beverage fridge, and a wood-burning fireplace. Whether you want to entertain or relax with a good book, this coastal Mediterranean-style outdoor living remodel has you covered. Photographer: Andrew - OpenHouse VC

Nouveaux horizons - Terrasse

Stéphane Larcin - Concepteur - Paysagiste

Révéler et magnifier les vues sur l'horizon parisien grâce au végétal et créer des espaces de détente et de vie en lien avec l'architecture intérieure de l'appartement : telles sont les intentions majeures de ce projet de toit-terrasse.

Chula Vista - Contemporary Modern

California Smartscape

Large contemporary backyard patio in San Diego with an outdoor kitchen, tile and a gazebo/cabana.

Lake Residence I

Living Habitats

Photo of a large arts and crafts backyard patio in Chicago with an outdoor kitchen, concrete pavers and no cover.

Outdoor Kitchen

Broward Landscape, Inc.

Outdoor kitchen with ledge stone & firepit. Pergola and french pattern travertine
Inspiration for a large contemporary backyard patio in Miami with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Modern Alumnawood patio cover

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PATIOS

This is an example of a large modern backyard patio with an outdoor kitchen, tile and a pergola.

Houston Residence

Traci Marlow Designs

This is an example of a large mediterranean courtyard patio in Houston with an outdoor kitchen, stamped concrete and a roof extension.

Project 3419-1 Outdoor Living Space Screen Porch Deck Porch Bar Minneapolis

Castle Building & Remodeling

This modern home, near Cedar Lake, built in 1900, was originally a corner store. A massive conversion transformed the home into a spacious, multi-level residence in the 1990’s. However, the home’s lot was unusually steep and overgrown with vegetation. In addition, there were concerns about soil erosion and water intrusion to the house. The homeowners wanted to resolve these issues and create a much more useable outdoor area for family and pets. Castle, in conjunction with Field Outdoor Spaces, designed and built a large deck area in the back yard of the home, which includes a detached screen porch and a bar & grill area under a cedar pergola. The previous, small deck was demolished and the sliding door replaced with a window. A new glass sliding door was inserted along a perpendicular wall to connect the home’s interior kitchen to the backyard oasis. The screen house doors are made from six custom screen panels, attached to a top mount, soft-close track. Inside the screen porch, a patio heater allows the family to enjoy this space much of the year. Concrete was the material chosen for the outdoor countertops, to ensure it lasts several years in Minnesota’s always-changing climate. Trex decking was used throughout, along with red cedar porch, pergola and privacy lattice detailing. The front entry of the home was also updated to include a large, open porch with access to the newly landscaped yard. Cable railings from Loftus Iron add to the contemporary style of the home, including a gate feature at the top of the front steps to contain the family pets when they’re let out into the yard. Tour this project in person, September 28 – 29, during the 2019 Castle Home Tour!

Private Backyard Resort

Presidential Pools, Spas & Patio

This is an example of a large contemporary backyard patio in Phoenix with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Pala Residence with Neutral Design and Blue Accents

Freestyle Interiors

Inspiration for a large beach style backyard patio in Miami with tile, a roof extension and an outdoor kitchen.

Marquette | 2017

Coats Homes

Photo of a large contemporary backyard patio in Dallas with an outdoor kitchen, concrete pavers and a roof extension.

Contemporary Pool

Bellas Landscaping

Inspiration for a large transitional backyard patio in Chicago with stamped concrete, an outdoor kitchen and a pergola.

Sofronas Residence

Altera Landscape

Landscape Design: AMS Landscape Design Studios, Inc. / Photography: Jeri Koegel
Design ideas for a large contemporary backyard patio in Orange County with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Large Patio Design Ideas with an Outdoor Kitchen

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!