Douds Bros. Landscape Construction, Inc.

Photo of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Other with a fire feature, brick pavers and no cover.

Patio seating area with gas firepit and seatwall.
Photo of a small traditional backyard patio in New York with a fire feature and natural stone pavers.

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.

Stone used for outdoor living areas

Buechel Stone Corp

This lakeside patio and walking path feature Buechel Stone's Shady Oak Steppers for an earthy and inviting atmosphere. Click on the tags to see more at www.buechelstone.com/shoppingcart/products/Shady-Oak-Step... and www.buechelstone.com/shoppingcart/search.php?search_query....

Patios & BBQ & Fire pits

Ocean Pavers, Inc.

H. M.
Photo of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Orange County with a fire feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

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.

Cozy Patio and Fireplace

Outdoor Dreams

Greg Koehler
Mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Richmond with a fire feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

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.

Spanish Courtyard

Studio H Landscape Architecture

Studio H Landscape Architecture
Photo of a mid-sized mediterranean courtyard patio in Orange County with a fire feature and concrete pavers.

Fire Pit Addition

Designer Decks & Patios by Armor

Detailed view of finished fire pit
Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in DC Metro with a fire feature, brick pavers and no cover.

FIRE PITS

Country Nursery, Inc

Inspiration for a small traditional backyard patio in Other with a fire feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Orono Artistic Landscape

Stonepocket Unique Landscapes

View from atop fieldstone wall looking upon copper fire table and bluestone patio. Lines of irregular bluestone radiate out from the center of the fire table. Photo by Tim Heelan

Malta Street, Highland Park

California Deck Builders

A cool white concrete patio and firepit with a metal and redwood shade structure, perfect for outdoor living.
This is an example of a mid-sized modern backyard patio in Los Angeles with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Shade Garden

A J Miller Landscape Architecture PLLC

Native plantings in this shade garen, plants includes Sambucus- Elderberry in purple, Paper Bark Maple tree in the foreground, Astilbe, Hosta and Hakone grass.

Misc. Projects

Studio 342 Landscape Architecture

Photo of a small traditional backyard patio in Seattle with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

favorites

Fine Decks Inc.

This is an example of a large traditional backyard patio in DC Metro with brick pavers, a fire feature and no cover.

David and Terri's backyard

Landscape East & West

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

Beaucatcher Barn Home

Altura Architects

We used the timber frame of a century old barn to build this rustic modern house. The barn was dismantled, and reassembled on site. Inside, we designed the home to showcase as much of the original timber frame as possible. Photography by Todd Crawford

Stone fireplace with adirondack chairs

Everett Garden Designs

Fire pits

Great Escape Landscaping

Large traditional side yard patio in Detroit with a fire feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Patio Design Ideas with 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!