Hood House is a playful protector that respects the heritage character of Carlton North whilst celebrating purposeful change. It is a luxurious yet compact and hyper-functional home defined by an exploration of contrast: it is ornamental and restrained, subdued and lively, stately and casual, compartmental and open. For us, it is also a project with an unusual history. This dual-natured renovation evolved through the ownership of two separate clients. Originally intended to accommodate the needs of a young family of four, we shifted gears at the eleventh hour and adapted a thoroughly resolved design solution to the needs of only two. From a young, nuclear family to a blended adult one, our design solution was put to a test of flexibility. The result is a subtle renovation almost invisible from the street yet dramatic in its expressive qualities. An oblique view from the northwest reveals the playful zigzag of the new roof, the rippling metal hood. This is a form-making exercise that connects old to new as well as establishing spatial drama in what might otherwise have been utilitarian rooms upstairs. A simple palette of Australian hardwood timbers and white surfaces are complimented by tactile splashes of brass and rich moments of colour that reveal themselves from behind closed doors. Our internal joke is that Hood House is like Lazarus, risen from the ashes. We’re grateful that almost six years of hard work have culminated in this beautiful, protective and playful house, and so pleased that Glenda and Alistair get to call it home.

Willow Vale Farm

Habitat Studio Architects

This is an example of a country patio in Other with decking and a pergola.

The Fig Trees

Tania J Coward ARCHITECT

Design ideas for a beach style patio in Brisbane with concrete pavers and a pergola.

Dartmouth House

Shane Marsh Architects

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

Bells Interior Styling

Kennedy and Co Interiors

This is an example of a mediterranean patio in Geelong with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Exterior Patio Dining Under Trellis

Hanomoco Design

Photo of a traditional backyard patio in San Francisco with an outdoor kitchen and a pergola.

Thayer Residence

Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis Architects LLP

Ciro Coelho Photography
Photo of a contemporary patio in Santa Barbara with concrete slab, a pergola and with fireplace.

Lansdowne Modern Swimming Pool + Outdoor Living

Randy Angell Designs

Photography by Jimi Smith / "Jimi Smith Photography"
Design ideas for a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Dallas with a fire feature, decking and a pergola.

Louvered Roof System

Dart Awnings

This is an example of a large traditional backyard patio in New York with a pergola.

Port Streets 10

Garden Studio

Design ideas for a transitional backyard patio in Orange County with with fireplace and a pergola.

Estate - Lindon, Utah (40)

Magleby Construction

Design ideas for an expansive country backyard patio in Salt Lake City with concrete pavers and a pergola.

Mangaris Wood Custom Patio Screen

Outside InStyle

Mangaris wood privacy screen with changing widths to add interest. Porch wood screen blocks barbeque from deck patio view. Photo by Katrina Coombs
Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen, decking and a pergola.

An Entertainers Kitchen

Southview Design

This outdoor kitchen/bar provides everything you need to entertain your guests outdoors. The stainless steel cabinets along the wall house a sink, refrigerator and plenty of storage.

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.

60th Pl. Burr Ridge, IL

Rolling Landscapes Inc.

An elegant wooden screen supplies just enough enclosure around this wonderful outdoor seating area featuring a custom built in gas fire pit. Like us on Houzz and see more of our work at www.rollinglandscapes.com. Photo by: Linda Oyama Bryan

Bartlesville Outdoor Living

Tanner Consulting LLC- Landscape Architecture

The large rough cedar pergola provides a wonderful place for the homeowners to entertain guests. The decorative concrete patio used an integral color and release, was scored and then sealed with a glossy finish. There was plenty of seating designed into the patio space and custom cushions create a more comfortable seat along the fireplace. Jason Wallace Photography

West Coast English Retreat

Tierra Madre Fine Gardens

Photo by Samantha Robison
Design ideas for a small transitional backyard patio in Other with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Garden Design for Ed Oddy

Anna Stathaki | Photography

Photo of a traditional patio in Surrey with a pergola.

4th Street Townhouse, Park Slope

Harper Design Build

This is an example of a small contemporary backyard patio in New York with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

An Estate to Remember

Casabella Interiors

Large beach style backyard patio in Boston with with fireplace, a pergola and tile.

Patio Design Ideas with a Pergola and an Awning

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!