AquaTerra Outdoors was hired to bring life to the outdoors of the new home. When it came time to design the space we were challenged with the tight space of the backyard. We worked through the concepts and we were able to incorporate a new pool with spa, custom water feature wall, Ipe wood deck, outdoor kitchen, custom steel and Ipe wood shade arbor and fire pit. We also designed and installed all the landscaping including the custom steel planter. Photography: Wade Griffith

Portfolio

Edmunds Studios Photography, Inc.

Design: modernedgedesign.com Photo: Edmunds Studios Photography
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Milwaukee with a fire feature, a pergola and concrete slab.

Modern Rustic Backyard Pool Patio

Techo-Bloc

A large modern concrete patio slab, Industria’s square shape and smooth surface allows you to play with colors and patterns. Line them up for a clean contemporary look or have some fun by installing them diagonally to create a field of diamonds. Perfect to use for rooftops, terraces, patios, pool decks, parks and pedestrain walkways.

Gorgeous Infinity Pool with mulitple outdoor living spaces

Blue Stone Construction

Inspiration for a large contemporary backyard patio in San Diego with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Multi-Space Modern Michigan

Lowenoak Landscape Development

Large traditional backyard patio in Detroit with a fire feature, stamped concrete and a pergola.

Farmer Residence, Campbell

New Level Landscapes

Photo of a large modern backyard patio in Canberra - Queanbeyan with a fire feature, tile and a pergola.

Pergola, Patio, and Fire Pit

NWI Patio Pros

Mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, stamped concrete and a pergola.

ZUMA: Outdoor

Saffron Case Homes

Photo of a contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Outdoor entertaining and living space

Poul's Landscaping & Nursery, Inc.

Large contemporary backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Patio

Euro Tile Outlet

Design ideas for a large contemporary backyard patio in Miami with a fire feature, stamped concrete and a pergola.

Free Standing Poolside Arbor

Southwest Fence & Deck

Inspiration for a large contemporary backyard patio in Dallas with a fire feature, gravel and a pergola.

Cottage Style Outdoor Living in Upper St. Clair

Blackwood & Associates, Inc.

This is an example of a large country backyard patio in Other with a fire feature, stamped concrete and a pergola.

Oakhurst: Archictual Landscaping

Outdoor Living LLC

Design ideas for a large traditional backyard patio in Detroit with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

The Pazos Project

Pratt Guys

This backyard retreat is the perfect place to get away from it all. Whether dining in the lounge area, or relaxing by the fireplace, this luxurious outdoor space is sure to make your backyard feel like home.

Minnetonka

L&R Suburban Landscaping Inc.

Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Firepit

PaveStone Brick Paving Inc.

Photo of a large traditional backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Outdoor Living

Third Space Builders, LLC.

Bi-Level Deck Custom Planter Boxes Custom Radius Benches Integral Lighting Kayu Batu Lumber Outdoor Dining
Photo of a large transitional backyard patio in Columbus with a fire feature, a pergola and decking.

Outdoor Retreat Makeover, Father Nature Landscapes of Birmingham, Inc.

Father Nature Landscapes of Birmingham, Inc.

Instead of purchasing a second home, the homeowners decided to create a vacation destination right in their own yard. When the project was finished, the family had a whole new world just outside their door. Three sitting areas, dining spaces, and lounging areas under the decks. An outdoor kitchen, hot tub, and fountain. There is no reason for this family to travel to relax and get away from it all. The outdoor “rooms” were created to provide intimate retreats for each of the family members, at every stage of their lives. The outdoor kitchen was designed for entertaining, as was the hot tub. The cozy sitting areas provide ideal spots for reading a book, or sharing a glass of wine. The fountain’s stuccoed brick veneer is graced with handmade brass flutes that fill the garden with the soothing sounds of water. No travel required.

A Pond in Park Ridge

Hoy Landscaping Inc.

This is an example of a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Private Residence

semple brown design

Design ideas for a contemporary patio in Denver with a fire feature and a pergola.

Patio Design Ideas with a Fire Feature and a Pergola

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!