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

Hawthorn Alterations & Additions

Sketch Building Design

This is an example of a contemporary patio in Melbourne with no cover.

Project of the Month: September 2017

TCP Custom Outdoor Living

This freestanding covered patio with an outdoor kitchen and fireplace is the perfect retreat! Just a few steps away from the home, this covered patio is about 500 square feet. The homeowner had an existing structure they wanted replaced. This new one has a custom built wood burning fireplace with an outdoor kitchen and is a great area for entertaining. The flooring is a travertine tile in a Versailles pattern over a concrete patio. The outdoor kitchen has an L-shaped counter with plenty of space for prepping and serving meals as well as space for dining. The fascia is stone and the countertops are granite. The wood-burning fireplace is constructed of the same stone and has a ledgestone hearth and cedar mantle. What a perfect place to cozy up and enjoy a cool evening outside. The structure has cedar columns and beams. The vaulted ceiling is stained tongue and groove and really gives the space a very open feel. Special details include the cedar braces under the bar top counter, carriage lights on the columns and directional lights along the sides of the ceiling. Click Photography

surry hills

panda studio architecture pty ltd

Photo of a contemporary patio in Sydney with concrete pavers and no cover.

San Pasqual-Exterior

J & M Construction & Development

Louie Heredia
Photo of a traditional backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen, concrete slab and a gazebo/cabana.

Del Mar Exterior Renovation

SJS Studios Inc.

Bluestone Pavers, custom Teak Wood banquette with cement tile inlay, Bluestone firepit, custom outdoor kitchen with Teak Wood, concrete waterfall countertop with Teak surround.

Rustic Modern Outdoor Entertainment Retreat

Landwell Design + Build Co.

This spacious, multi-level backyard in San Luis Obispo, CA, once completely underutilized and overtaken by weeds, was converted into the ultimate outdoor entertainment space with a custom pool and spa as the centerpiece. A cabana with a built-in storage bench, outdoor TV and wet bar provide a protected place to chill during hot pool days, and a screened outdoor shower nearby is perfect for rinsing off after a dip. A hammock attached to the master deck and the adjacent pool deck are ideal for relaxing and soaking up some rays. The stone veneer-faced water feature wall acts as a backdrop for the pool area, and transitions into a retaining wall dividing the upper and lower levels. An outdoor sectional surrounds a gas fire bowl to create a cozy spot to entertain in the evenings, with string lights overhead for ambiance. A Belgard paver patio connects the lounge area to the outdoor kitchen with a Bull gas grill and cabinetry, polished concrete counter tops, and a wood bar top with seating. The outdoor kitchen is tucked in next to the main deck, one of the only existing elements that remain from the previous space, which now functions as an outdoor dining area overlooking the entire yard. Finishing touches included low-voltage LED landscape lighting, pea gravel mulch, and lush planting areas and outdoor decor.

Woodside Conservatory & Hardscape

Chateau Construction Company

Spencer Kent
Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in San Francisco with natural stone pavers, an outdoor shower and no cover.

Bruce's Garden

User

Photo of a traditional patio in Charlotte with gravel and no cover.

garden in the sun

CATO creative

Design ideas for a small contemporary backyard patio in London with concrete pavers and no cover.

Lemont Landscaping

KD Landscape

The distinct spaces can be seen from this overhead view. The dining area is separated from the social space by three large containers on one side and from the fire pit by a low profile planting bed on the other side. A small grill with counter is conveniently located near the three season room. Landscape design by John Algozzini. Photo courtesy of Mike Crews Photography.

Outdoor Living in Atlanta

Boyce Design + Build

This inviting space features a decorative concrete patio with a custom concrete fire pit and Ipe floating bench. The lush landscaping and cedar privacy fence provides a tranquil setting for city living.

Mosman

Harrison's Landscaping

A truly beautiful garden and pool design to complement an incredible architectural designed harbour view home.
Design ideas for an expansive contemporary backyard patio in Sydney with no cover.

Lake Elmo Sanctuary

DreamScapes Landscaping & Design, Inc.

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

Irvington Deck + Patio

Howells Architecture + Design

We converted an underused back yard into a modern outdoor living space. The decking is ipe hardwood, the fence is stained cedar, and a stained concrete fountain adds privacy and atmosphere at the dining area. Photos copyright Laurie Black Photography.

Delightful Duplex

Cathers Home Furniture + Interior Design

Mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Denver with concrete pavers and no cover.

Clarke residence remodel - Islands Estates

Creativa Builders

This is an example of a mid-sized modern backyard patio in Miami with a fire feature, tile and no cover.

Sammamish Outdoor Living and Backyard Makeover

Urban Oasis Design & Construction LLC

Photo of a large transitional backyard patio in Seattle with a fire feature, concrete slab and no cover.

Wild at Heart

STEM Landscape Architecture & Design

Brent wilson photography (image 1)
Inspiration for an eclectic patio in Melbourne with decking and a gazebo/cabana.

Atlantic Beach Contemporary Compact Backyard

Cascade Outdoor Design

Small spaces can provide big challenges. These homeowners wanted to include a lot in their tiny backyard! There were also numerous city restrictions to comply with, and elevations to contend with. The design includes several seating areas, a fire feature that can be seen from the home's front entry, a water wall, and retractable screens. This was a "design only" project. Installation was coordinated by the homeowner and completed by others. Photos copyright Cascade Outdoor Design, LLC

Patio Design Ideas with No Cover and a Gazebo/Cabana

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!