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

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

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.

Queens Park Basement, Ground Floor Extension, Loft Conversion & Renovation

Clare Heffernan Architecture & Design Ltd.

Basement courtyard with seating, storage and water feature
Photo of a mediterranean courtyard patio in London with a water feature and tile.

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.

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

Natural stone patios

Cobblestone Landscape LLC

Design ideas for a large traditional backyard patio in Philadelphia with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

West Coast English Retreat

Tierra Madre Fine Gardens

Photo of a small contemporary backyard patio in Other with a water feature and gravel.

Long town garden Strawberry Hill

Echinops Garden Design

Photo of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in London with a water feature, tile and no cover.

Earthship Farmstead

Kaplan Thompson Architects

Brett Winter Lemon Photography
Photo of a country backyard patio in Portland Maine with no cover, a fire feature and natural stone pavers.

Forever Home

Hursthouse Landscape Architects and Contractors

A patterned Lannonstone wall creates a private backdrop for the heated spa, featuring a sheer water weir pouring from between the wall’s mortar joints. Generous planting beds provide seasonal texture and softening between paved areas. The paving is Bluestone.

Modern Rustic Backyard Pool Patio

Techo-Bloc

A large modern concrete patio slab, Industria’s square shape and smooth surface allows you to play with colors and patterns. Line them up for a clean contemporary look or have some fun by installing them diagonally to create a field of diamonds. Perfect to use for rooftops, terraces, patios, pool decks, parks and pedestrain walkways.

Mechanicsville Hillside Makeover

Outdoor Dreams

This is an example of a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Richmond with a fire feature and concrete pavers.

Idyllic Modern

David Thorne Landscape Architect

Marion Brenner Photography
This is an example of a large modern front yard patio in San Francisco with a fire feature and natural stone pavers.

Palm Springs 18

digs inside & out

extension of pool area with a fire pit and comfortable , colorful seating. great outdoor lighting.
Design ideas for a large midcentury backyard patio with a fire feature, gravel and no cover.

Home in the Trees on Forest Trail

New Leaf Custom Homes

This is an example of a contemporary backyard patio in Dallas with a fire feature, gravel and no cover.

Midcentury Patio

Design ideas for a midcentury backyard patio in San Diego with a fire feature, gravel and no cover.

Valparaiso Pool Surround

NWI Patio Pros

Mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

DC Residence

Traut Landscape Studio

Designed while at Graham Landscape Architecture.
Photo of a small contemporary backyard patio in DC Metro with a water feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Small Space Gardens

The JCRD Group

Design ideas for a small contemporary side yard patio in Los Angeles with a water feature, stamped concrete and a roof extension.

Patio Design Ideas with a Water Feature and 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!