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

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.

Trellis & Firepit Area - Northeast View

Krueger Architects

Unlimited Style Photography
Photo of a small contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with a fire feature 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.

Middlebury CT House

Demetriades + Walker

Peter Peirce
Traditional patio in Bridgeport with a pergola.

Townsend

Yardscapes Northwest

Design ideas for a mid-sized country backyard patio in Boise with stamped concrete 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.

Magnolia Residence- Hillside Renovation

Kim Rooney Design

Garden Design By Kim Rooney Landscape architect, Client designed planting in containers, located in the Magnolia neighborhood of Seattle Washington. This photo was taken by Eva Blanchard Photography.

Secret Garden in Boulder

Designs by Sundown

Photo of a traditional patio in Denver with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Los Cerros

Imprints Landscape Architecture

This is an example of a transitional backyard patio in San Francisco with a pergola.

Contemporary Patio

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

Santa Barbara, California

KES Studio

The residence received a full gut renovation to create a modern coastal retreat vacation home. This was achieved by using a neutral color pallet of sands and blues with organic accents juxtaposed with custom furniture’s clean lines and soft textures.

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.

Outdoor Kitchens

Hursthouse Landscape Architects and Contractors

While there is space between them, the linear privacy wall is visually extended by the linear kitchen. The panoramic view shows how the kitchen, social space and the fire pit relate to each other for convenience while still providing an exceptional aesthetic.

Estate - Lindon, Utah (40)

Magleby Construction

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

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.

Bluestone Irving Park

KD Landscape

The quaking aspen provide upper level screening, but still allow light through to the patio. Photography by Larry Huene Photography.
Photo of a small contemporary backyard patio in Chicago with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Mediterranean Patio

This is an example of a mediterranean patio in Orange County with tile, a pergola and with fireplace.

Mustang Park, Carrollton

AquaTerra Outdoors

AquaTerra Outdoors was hired to bring life to the outdoors of the new home. When it came time to design the space we were challenged with the tight space of the backyard. We worked through the concepts and we were able to incorporate a new pool with spa, custom water feature wall, Ipe wood deck, outdoor kitchen, custom steel and Ipe wood shade arbor and fire pit. We also designed and installed all the landscaping including the custom steel planter. Photography: Wade Griffith

Patio Design Ideas with a Pergola

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!