Photo Credit: Pleasant Hill Drone Service
This is an example of a large backyard patio in Kansas City with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

After Photo of Backyard Space

DC Design LLC

This is a view of the new patio space with the low retaining wall. The retaining wall allowed the space to be level for outdoor dining. The neighbor's garage is borrowed as a backdrop for the colorful plantings.

Patio with Hardwood deck, verandah and sofa

Parmé Garden Design

Victoria Lee, The Moment Photography
Photo of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Cheshire with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Atlanta Pool, Patio and Fire Pit Area

authenTEAK Outdoor Living

Adirondack chairs and teak stools by Gloster. Fire pit by Fire Pit Art. All available at AuthenTEAK.
This is an example of a mid-sized eclectic backyard patio in Atlanta with a fire feature, gravel and no cover.

Mission Meeting Hall

Kristin Riccio Interior Design

Clinton Perry Photography
Mid-sized eclectic patio in San Francisco with a fire feature, concrete slab and no cover.

Oakwood Design-Build Outdoor Space

Bonner Landscape Contractors

Photo of a large transitional backyard patio in Philadelphia with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Project Gallery

Alluring Hardscape

Design ideas for a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Boston with a fire feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Concrete Paved Patio

DSTscaping and RLC Construction

Design ideas for a large contemporary backyard patio in San Francisco with a fire feature, concrete slab and no cover.

Covered Patio, Pergolas and Fire Pit

Tradition Outdoor Living

These Katy TX homeowners were looking for a space that would combine their love for the outdoors and watching sports. Tradition Outdoor Living designed a unique open plan that includes a covered patio flanked by two cedar pergolas and a stone fire pit. This combination of structures provides a fully protected lounge area for TV viewing and two partially shaded areas for grilling and dining in comfort. The covered patio has an open gable roof with cedar trusses, cedar trimmed columns and beams. The stained tongue and groove ceiling is fitted out with recessed lighting and ceiling fans. The matching pergolas provide partial shade while allowing natural light to filter through. The concrete was extended to create room for seating around the fire pit. The concrete is stamped and stained to coordinate with the stone fire pit and stone footers. Rustic lighting, furniture and decor create a laid back, rugged outdoor retreat.

Customer Projects

Encore

Large country backyard patio in Charleston with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Belgard Product Gallery

Brick Paving Plus

This is an example of a large traditional backyard patio in Austin with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Screened area with sunken spa, fire pit and outdoor kitchen.

Creative Design Space, Inc.

Design ideas for a mid-sized tropical backyard patio in Jacksonville with a fire feature, a pergola and tile.

A Contemporary Rustic Backyard with Water Features

Techo-Bloc

For this project, the beige Travertina slabs, the beige Graphix retaining wall system, the faux-wood Borealis collection (BBQ island and the pool borders) were used in this backyard to create a full entertainment living space. It includes a fire pit, a seating area, plus a dipping pool that falls into a full-size pool. Other outdoor elements, like water fountains and additional fire pits, were installed around the pool for a wow effect. These landscape stones blend perfectly well with nature's elements.

Detailed Landscape

Photo of a mid-sized mediterranean backyard patio in Denver with concrete pavers, a pergola and with fireplace.

San Carlos Mid-Century Modern Remodel

Klopf Architecture

Mariko Reed
Mid-sized midcentury backyard patio in San Francisco with a fire feature, concrete slab and a roof extension.

Dennis' 7 Dees Landscaping & Garden Centers

National Association of Landscape Professionals

Design ideas for a country patio in Portland with a fire feature and no cover.

Traditional Patio

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

Brock Patio

Reycon Inc.

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Austin with a fire feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Spanish Colonial | Soledad Mountain Rd, La Jolla

San Diego Home Photography

San Diego Home Photography
This is an example of a large courtyard patio in San Diego with tile, no cover and with fireplace.

Rustic Modern Exterior Design

Techo-Bloc

This project was designed with a custom patio using Blu Grande stones in shale grey to create a spacious outdoor seating area, a lounging area and a fire pit to gather around to enjoy warm evenings.

Patio Design Ideas with a Fire Feature and with Fireplace

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!