Design ideas for a large contemporary backyard patio in Melbourne with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

MSN Homes Griffin display home

ProAbode Photography

This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Brisbane with an outdoor kitchen, tile and a gazebo/cabana.

Attadale Project

Western Cabinets

This is an example of a large contemporary backyard patio in Perth with an outdoor kitchen, concrete slab and a roof extension.

Dartmouth House

Shane Marsh Architects

Photo of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Brisbane with a fire feature, gravel and an awning.

Sydney Living

Dean Herald-Rolling Stone Landscapes

Rolling Stone Landscapes
Contemporary patio in Sydney with an outdoor kitchen.

Palm Springs Outdoor Oasis

Southwest Boulder & Stone

This nearly 3,000 square foot mid-century modern home captures the essence of Palm Springs indoor/outdoor lifestyle. Desert landscaping juxtaposing greys and reds complement and accentuate the pool, spa and large outdoor fire pit. Arizona Fisheye 1/8" pebble, though becoming more popular in desert areas, is a rarer stone choice and was a special order for this project. Just inside behind full-length windows, a stylish fireplace filled with Irish Green reflective fire glass sets the tone for quintessential Palm Springs luxury.

Roseville Pavilion

Michelle Walker architects

The Pavilion is a contemporary outdoor living addition to a Federation house in Roseville, NSW. The existing house sits on a 1550sqm block of land and is a substantial renovated two storey family home. The 900sqm north facing rear yard slopes gently down from the back of the house and is framed by mature deciduous trees. The client wanted to create something special “out the back”, to replace an old timber pergola and update the pebblecrete pool, surrounded by uneven brick paving and tubular pool fencing. After years living in Asia, the client’s vision was for a year round, comfortable outdoor living space; shaded from the hot Australian sun, protected from the rain, and warmed by an outdoor fireplace and heaters during the cooler Sydney months. The result is large outdoor living room, which provides generous space for year round outdoor living and entertaining and connects the house to both the pool and the deep back yard. The Pavilion at Roseville is a new in-between space, blurring the distinction between inside and out. It celebrates the contemporary culture of outdoor living, gathering friends & family outside, around the bbq, pool and hearth.

Outdoor Kitchen

DeGoey Designs

Small industrial backyard patio in Other with an outdoor kitchen and brick pavers.

Creative Hardscapes projects

Creative Hardscapes

Mid-sized arts and crafts backyard patio in Cleveland with stamped concrete, no cover and a fire feature.

Custom Fire Pit

James C. Grimes Land Design

Custom, in ground fire pit extends the season for this homeowner.
Large modern backyard patio in New York with a fire feature.

Deck + Firepit

Artistic Concrete Surfaces

Lindsey Denny
This is an example of a large contemporary backyard patio in Kansas City with a fire feature, stamped concrete and a roof extension.

GRIFFIN ENRIGHT ARCHITECTS: Mandeville Canyon Residence

Griffin Enright Architects

An outdoor living room is created by the overhang of the floor above.
Mid-sized modern backyard patio in Los Angeles with a fire feature, concrete slab and a roof extension.

Sea Marsh Farm

Amy Martin Landscape Design

Photo of a country patio in Boston with no cover and a fire feature.

Los Altos Covered Patio

Kikuchi + Kankel Design Group

The homeowners desired an outdoor space that felt more rustic than their refined interior spaces, but still related architecturally to their house. Cement plaster support arbor columns provide enough of visual tie to the existing house exterior. Oversized wood beams and rafter members provide a unique outdoor atmosphere. Structural bolts and hardware were minimized for a cleaner appearance. Structural connections and supports were engineered to meet California's stringent earthquake standards. Ali Atri Photography

Entertaining Space

Susan Cohan Gardens

Custom trellis stained Benjamin Moore Yorktowne Green HC-133 are supports for espaliered apple trees and a backdrop for a small deer resistant perennial bed.

Chef's Tree-Shaded Kitchen

FormLA Landscaping

This is an example of a small contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen, concrete pavers and no cover.

Arcadia - Phoenix II

Merit Landworks

Mid-sized country backyard patio in Phoenix with an outdoor kitchen, tile and a pergola.

MODERN FARMHOUSE

BLUEWAGON LANDSCAPE & DESIGN INC

Modern backyard patio in San Francisco with a fire feature and a pergola.

Organic Modern Mountain Home

Living Stone Design + Build

Design ideas for a mid-sized country backyard patio in Other with an outdoor kitchen, decking and a roof extension.

Contemporary Patio

Design ideas for a small contemporary backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Patio Design Ideas with an Outdoor Kitchen and a Fire Feature

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!