This is an example of an expansive modern backyard patio in New York with gravel, no cover and a container garden.

Compact Concrete Courtyard with COR-TEN Planters

Upright COR-TEN planters bloom brightly with Sedum tetractinum 'Coral Reef', bringing a bit of sunshine into this small courtyard.
Small modern courtyard patio in Other with a container garden, concrete slab and an awning.

Sierra Towers Condo - Complete Remodel

Eliza Engle Interiors

This is an example of a mid-sized modern patio in Los Angeles with a container garden, tile and a roof extension.

Amesbury Residence/ Los Feliz

Julie Maigret Design

Julie Maigret
Design ideas for a mid-sized modern backyard patio in Los Angeles with a container garden, concrete slab and no cover.

Cultural Chic Condo

Lux Pad Interiors

This is an example of a large modern side yard patio in New York with a container garden, decking and no cover.

the watts garden

Landscape Design by James Brunton-Smith Limited

James Brunton-Smith
Inspiration for a small modern courtyard patio in Surrey with a container garden, concrete pavers and no cover.

CHERRY DUPLEX

bymariellamarquez - InteriorismoDecoraciónReformas

Inspiration for a large modern backyard patio in Barcelona with a container garden and tile.

San Francisco Back Yard

Alive Design & Construction

Inspiration for a mid-sized modern backyard patio in San Francisco with a container garden, decking and no cover.

Red Hawk

Imbue Design

Imbue Design
This is an example of a large modern courtyard patio in Salt Lake City with a container garden, concrete pavers and a roof extension.

Front Patio

PM-AD

Photo of a large modern front yard patio in Dallas with a container garden, decking and a roof extension.

Fort Greene Modern Garden

Outside Space NYC Landscape Design

Irene Kalina-Jones
Mid-sized modern backyard patio in New York with a container garden, natural stone pavers and no cover.

MODERN FARMHOUSE

BLUEWAGON LANDSCAPE & DESIGN INC

This is an example of a modern courtyard patio in San Francisco with a container garden, concrete slab and a gazebo/cabana.

The Taupe Courtyard

OneAbode Landscape Design

Photo of a small modern patio in London with a container garden and natural stone pavers.

Pergolas

Terraform

Design ideas for a large modern patio in New York with a container garden, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Sequoia Plastic Resin Planter Garden Bed by Keter, Grey

keter

The Sequoia by Keter is the planter for modern households. Designed to display your flowers or act as a garden container, the Sequoia offers rustic charm with its natural wood look.

Arash

J. Montgomery Designs, Inc.

black pergola with dining area, turf, concrete steppers and landscaping.
Mid-sized modern backyard patio in San Francisco with a container garden, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Modern Garden with Curved Corten Border

Little Miracles Designs - Toronto

Contemporary take on a typical narrow rectangular new built townhouse garden. Curved Corten steel border works as focal feature with a floating curved bench. Mediterranean plant pallet gives this garden a warmer feel. Paved center gives this family with kids plenty o room to run and play.

Modern Family Garden in Wimbledon

GreenlinesDesign Ltd

A contemporary family garden was created by dividing the rear garden into an adult area with the help of fun curved rendered walls pained in a cool grey. The walls have 'cut out window' to allow the view of the planting behind but to hide the generally unsightly 'compulsory' trampoline in todays family gardens. The planting is lush and volouptus in contrast to the strikt lines of the concrete walls and bespoke steel planters, boundary fences was painted charcoal black to make them 'disappear' and to show off the greenery better. The sunken basement garden is decked in hardwood decking and the walls cladd with natural stone pebbles, in perfect harmony with the garden sculptures. A stainless steel waterwall with colour changing LED lighting brightens this otherwise dull dark area. Designed and built by GreenlinesDesign Ltd / Maria Örnberg

O'Conner Waterfront, Camano Island WA

Dan Nelson, Designs Northwest Architects

Courtyard with glass door up. Photography by Lucas Henning.
This is an example of a mid-sized modern courtyard patio in Seattle with a container garden, brick pavers and a pergola.

PADDINGTON TOWNHOUSE

The Designory

Danella Chalmers
Inspiration for a mid-sized modern backyard patio in Sydney with a container garden, tile and no cover.

Modern Patio Design Ideas with a Container Garden

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, modern 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 modern 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 modern 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!