Patio Design Ideas
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.
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Simon Wood
Inspiration for a contemporary backyard patio in Sydney with an outdoor kitchen.
Outdoor area semi closed in - zenaya00
patrick redmond
Inspiration for a contemporary patio in Melbourne with a fire feature and no cover.
Lots of greenery, comfier couch - melodyoverton19
Mark Sherwood
Photo of a mid-sized beach style backyard patio in Brisbane with tile and a roof extension.
Photo of a small contemporary patio in Sydney with a roof extension.
The use of wood in this outdoor space! Love it! - johnjill_white
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary courtyard patio in Melbourne with no cover and tile.
Black trim around the door - ondbrown
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Tim Turner Photography
This is an example of a mid-sized industrial backyard patio in Melbourne with an outdoor kitchen and no cover.
Outdoor kitchen against boundary fence - bryan_yeow
Open plan living areas flowing out into a landscaped courtyard. Terracotta tiles in intricate pattern.
Photo: Lara Masselos
Partial House Staging: Baxter Macintosh
colour scheme for frontage - above entrance to house - catetibb
Stonetrack Grey R11 - Laid in multisize pattern - Project by Pitch Projects
Photo of a contemporary backyard patio in Brisbane with an outdoor kitchen, tile and a roof extension.
the sliding door - webuser_732713496
Photo of a modern backyard patio in Sydney with an outdoor kitchen and a roof extension.
Brent Lukey
Beach style backyard patio in Melbourne with an outdoor kitchen, decking and a roof extension.
Outdoor kitchen linked with a servery to the indoor kitchen. - john_velardo
Photo - Urban Angles
Photo of a contemporary patio in Melbourne.
Seated area in front of green wall - webuser_840757692
Urban Angles
Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary patio in Melbourne with a vertical garden and a roof extension.
Natural setting - marigail
Photo of a contemporary patio in Sydney with a container garden and decking.
Love the extra bit of fence - cs352
Inspiration for a contemporary backyard patio in Melbourne with an outdoor kitchen and a roof extension.
Entertaining area. Different textures, roof, western wall etc. - carly_daly
Hamptons Style beach house designed and built by Stritt Design and Construction on Sydney's Northern Beaches.
Outdoor entertaining back yard with covered patio, sandstone pavers, pool, hedges and lawn.
white courtyard area.
white screens and similar colour tiles - webuser_136367544
Putra Indrawan
This is an example of a contemporary patio in Perth with an outdoor kitchen, concrete slab and a roof extension.
Opening roof over patio would take light/ rain issues away. Will need auto closing for rain when no one home. - browm_karen
Dylan Lark
This is an example of a small contemporary backyard patio in Melbourne with natural stone pavers.
cladding on walls for outdoor area? - alex9958
Photo of a contemporary backyard patio in Sydney with tile and a pergola.