When the developer found this brownstone on the Upper Westside he immediately researched and found its potential for expansion. We were hired to maximize the existing brownstone and turn it from its current existence as 5 individual apartments into a large luxury single family home. The existing building was extended 16 feet into the rear yard and a new sixth story was added along with an occupied roof. The project was not a complete gut renovation, the character of the parlor floor was maintained, along with the original front facade, windows, shutters, and fireplaces throughout. A new solid oak stair was built from the garden floor to the roof in conjunction with a small supplemental passenger elevator directly adjacent to the staircase. The new brick rear facade features oversized windows; one special aspect of which is the folding window wall at the ground level that can be completely opened to the garden. The goal to keep the original character of the brownstone yet to update it with modern touches can be seen throughout the house. The large kitchen has Italian lacquer cabinetry with walnut and glass accents, white quartz counters and backsplash and a Calcutta gold arabesque mosaic accent wall. On the parlor floor a custom wetbar, large closet and powder room are housed in a new floor to ceiling wood paneled core. The master bathroom contains a large freestanding tub, a glass enclosed white marbled steam shower, and grey wood vanities accented by a white marble floral mosaic. The new forth floor front room is highlighted by a unique sloped skylight that offers wide skyline views. The house is topped off with a glass stair enclosure that contains an integrated window seat offering views of the roof and an intimate space to relax in the sun.

Modern Concrete Fire Bowl - Bayside

Ginkgo Leaf Studio

The gas fire feature is a cast concrete bowl filled with spheres made of the same material as faux logs in fireplaces. A unique take on a fire pit. Westhauser Photography

Patios

Sid's Unlimited Landscaping

Mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Chicago with brick pavers, no cover and a container garden.

2016 Spanish Revival

Kim Grant Design Inc

Kim Grant, Architect; Elizabeth Barkett, Interior Designer - Ross Thiele & Sons Ltd.; Theresa Clark, Landscape Architect; Gail Owens, Photographer
This is an example of a mid-sized mediterranean side yard patio in San Diego with a pergola and tile.

Landscape Remodel & Home Addition

Outdoor Solutions

Mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Jackson with an outdoor kitchen, decking and no cover.

Portfolio 3

Outdoor Kitchen, Pool & Pavers

Design ideas for a mid-sized country backyard patio in Tampa with an outdoor kitchen, stamped concrete and a pergola.

Contemporary Water Feature in Irvine, CA

Alan Dunn Landscape Design

This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen, decking and no cover.

Wenham, MA

Brookwood Landscape and Stonework Inc.

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Boston with an outdoor kitchen, brick pavers and no cover.

Hudson Outdoor Living Room

Plan Architecture

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in New York with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Landscape Designs

WaterQuest Landscaping

This is an example of a mid-sized backyard patio in Albuquerque with a fire feature, no cover and concrete pavers.

Organic Elevations

User

Inspiration for a mid-sized country backyard patio in Other with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Zilker Modern

Foursquare Builders

This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Austin with concrete slab and a roof extension.

Palico Grand Home

Cabinet Genies, Inc.

Inspiration for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Miami with an outdoor kitchen, tile and a roof extension.

Pauoa Beach at Mauna Lani

Nicholson

Photo of a mid-sized tropical backyard patio in Hawaii with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Spears Project

Maverick Landscaping, Porch and Patio

Design ideas for a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Kansas City with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Our Work

Oasis Spaces

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in New Orleans with tile and a gazebo/cabana.

Cahaba River Residence

C.M.Bryant Architecture, L.L.C.

This is an example of a mid-sized country backyard patio in Birmingham with natural stone pavers and no cover.

Wood-Inlay Back Patio Cabana/Danver Stainless Outdoor Kitchen

K&N Appliance Gallery

Outdoor kitchens and back patios are more than just a grill on a slab of concrete, they're an opportunity to extend the design elements of your home to the outside! Using wood underneath the patio cabana is a beautiful way to follow-up on this idea.

Kenwood Residence

Petersen Design Associates, LLC

Photo of a mid-sized contemporary courtyard patio in San Francisco with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Pusch Ridge View

Prideaux Design

Matt Vacca
Inspiration for a mid-sized backyard patio in Phoenix with concrete pavers, a gazebo/cabana and with fireplace.

Mid-sized 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!