These clients spent the majority of their time outside and entertained frequently, but their existing patio space didn't allow for larger gatherings. We added nearly 500 square feet to the already 225 square feet existing to create this expansive outdoor living room. The outdoor fireplace is see-thru and can fully convert to wood burning should the clients desire. Beyond the fireplace is a spa built in on two sides with a composite deck, LED step lighting, and outdoor rated TV, and additional counter space. The outdoor grilling area mimics the interior of the clients home with a kitchen island and space for dining. Heaters were added in ceiling and mounted to walls to create additional heat sources. To capture the best lighting, our clients enhanced their space with lighting in the overhangs, underneath the benches adjacent the fireplace, and recessed cans throughout. Audio/Visual details include an outdoor rated TV by the spa, Sonos surround sound in the main sitting area, the grilling area, and another landscape zone by the spa. The lighting and audio/visual in this project is also fully automated. To bring their existing area and new area together for ultimate entertaining, the clients remodeled their exterior breakfast room wall by removing three windows and adding an accordion door with a custom retractable screen to keep bugs out of the home. For landscape, the existing sod was removed and synthetic turf installed around the entirety of the backyard area along with a small putting green. Selections: Flooring - 2cm porcelain paver Kitchen/island: Fascia is ipe. Counters are 3cm quartzite Dry Bar: Fascia is stacked stone panels. Counter is 3cm granite. Ceiling: Painted tongue and groove pine with decorative stained cedar beams. Additional Paint: Exterior beams painted accent color (do not match existing house colors) Roof: Slate Tile Benches: Tile back, stone (bullnose edge) seat and cap

SoCal Outdoor Remodel: Pavers, Turf, and Elements

System Pavers

These homeowners wanted to maintain their home's existing tropical mediterranean vibes, so we enhanced their space with accenting multi-tone pavers. These paving stones are rich in color and texture, adding to the existing beauty of their home. Artificial turf was added in for drought tolerance and low maintenance. Landscape lighting flows throughout the front and the backyard. Lastly, they requested a water feature to be included on their private backyard patio for added relaxation and ambiance.

1209 Harbor Drive | delray Beach, Florida

Judi Lukens & Kim Lekas

Patio
Mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Miami with an outdoor kitchen, a roof extension and concrete pavers.

Atlantic Beach Modern Backyard

Cascade Outdoor Design

This modern outdoor living space mere blocks from the beach is replete with all of the best staycation features. There is a cozy, yet refined screened patio space with a glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) wrapped spa that is situated opposite a Wolf-equipped outdoor dining and seating area. A custom GFRC fireplace with GFRC mantel connects the areas, while providing a touch of privacy. Through the retractable screens, a pair of Restoration Hardware chaise lounge chairs call for a sunning session. To beat the heat our clients can retreat to the pool and recline on the end-to-end sun shelf. Artificial turf and a stretch of Mexican beach pebble frame the pool and generous porcelain coping. Aloe, hibiscus, bamboo muhly, cabbage palms and other tropical landscaping enhance the modern beach aesthetic. Photos by Craig O'Neal

Cantabrica Estates

Vicki Kaplan, Arizona Best Real Estate

Cantabrica Estates is a private gated community located in North Scottsdale. Spec home available along with build-to-suit and incredible view lots. For more information contact Vicki Kaplan at Arizona Best Real Estate Spec Home Built By: LaBlonde Homes Photography by: Leland Gebhardt

Inviting Patio Spaces

Exscape Designs

Photo of a large contemporary backyard patio in Cleveland with a fire feature, gravel and no cover.

Pool Cabana

Nyhus Design Group

Designed to compliment the existing single story home in a densely wooded setting, this Pool Cabana serves as outdoor kitchen, dining, bar, bathroom/changing room, and storage. Photos by Ross Pushinaitus.

Purdue

Savannah Surfaces, Inc.

Inspiration for an expansive mediterranean backyard patio in Other with a water feature, natural stone pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Front Courtyard Pergola

Fratantoni Interior Designers

This courtyard features cement pavers with grass in between. A seated patio area in front of the custom built-in fireplace with two black wall trellis' on both sides of the fireplace. Decorated with four white wingback armchairs with black trim detailing and a stone coffee table in the center. A French-inspired fountain sits across from the patio space. A wood gate acts as the entrance into the courtyard.

Modern Classic

Melanie Rekola Landscape Design

Landscape design and photography by Melanie Rekola
Inspiration for a small modern backyard patio in Toronto with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Martis CAmp Lot 584

Kelly & Stone Architects

Vance Fox
Photo of a mid-sized country side yard patio in Sacramento with an outdoor kitchen, concrete slab and a roof extension.

Patio

Rockefeller Kempel Architects

Eric Staudenmaier
Photo of a large country side yard patio in Other with concrete slab and a roof extension.

CLIENT PROJECT | La Jolla California Luxury Home Terrace

Robeson Design

Nestled against the hillside in San Diego California, this outdoor living space provides homeowners the luxury of living in Southern California most coveted Real-estate... LaJolla California. Weather rated wood material called Epee is used on the decking as well as the ceiling. Two custom designed, bronze chandeliers grace the ceilings as a 30' steel beam supports the vast overhang... allowing the maximum view of the LaJolla coast. Beautiful woven outdoor furniture in a neutral color palette sets the perfect base for bold orange throw pillows and accents used throughout. "Mink like" throws help to keep guests warm after the sun sets or after a relaxing dip in the Jacuzzi.

In-Town Backyard

authenTEAK Outdoor Living

This beautiful outdoor space in Atlanta's Virginia Highland neighborhood was designed by Land Plus Associates and constructed by Okun Tech. Outdoor kitchen featuring Kingsley-Bate Valhalla table and Sag Harbor chairs. Appliances by Lynx.

Southwest Contemporary

ArchitecTor, PC

Thompson Photographic
Photo of a large backyard patio in Phoenix with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

The Home They've Always Wanted

Braen Supply

After falling in love with a home but unfortunately losing the bid to buy it, these homeowners approached Braen Supply for a solution. Braen Supply found a way to replicate the original home these individuals were hoping to buy, with the exact stone that was used. By building a replica on a different property, these homeowners truly got their dream home. The Fieldstone Veneer Blend that was used on the home was able to make it stand out with a unique look. The rest of the materials that were used worked perfectly to compliment the various features of the home. With the addition of the outdoor kitchen and pool, a perfect place to unwind was created.

Holmby Hills Residence

lauri morrison studio

Photo of a large traditional patio in Los Angeles.

Luxury Outdoor Sports Bar

Bill D'Agata

Pembrooke Fine Landscapes designed and built this outdoor sports pavilion in East Hampton, NY. The custom designed space include a full kitchen, fireplace, USTA standard tennis court and heated unite pool and spa. The kitchen features several high-end elements including a kegerator, wine refrigerator, ice maker, grill, dishwasher and full stove. The pavilon is fully integrated with a Lutron entertainment system for all of the TVs. The audio and video can stream movies, music and TV. The space also features an changing area, bathroom and outdoor shower.

Patio Awnings & Shades

Texas Sun & Shade

Exterior solar shades and awning systems are the most efficient solution to protect your windows and patio areas from the sun's damaging heat and UV rays. Blocking up to 99% of UV, motorized retractable shading systems allow you to block the sun and heat or reverse the strategy to allow in natural light and heat as desired.

Newcastle Outdoor Room and Patio

Urban Oasis Design & Construction LLC

This beautiful outdoor space was designed to replace a shady, largely unused space in our client's backyard. We transformed a small, exposed aggregate patio into an expansive covered outdoor room complete with a gas fireplace and an elaborate outdoor kitchen and bar seating area. The additional open patio space takes advantage of views out to a waterfall and greenery beyond. William Wright Photography

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!