Photo of a large transitional courtyard patio in Other with no cover, a water feature and natural stone pavers.

Atlantic Beach Contemporary Compact Backyard

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

Kalorama Contemporary

Horn & Co. (Previously JHLA)

Our clients on this project were inspired by their travels to Asia and wanted to mimic this aesthetic at their DC property. We designed a water feature that effectively masks adjacent traffic noise and maintains a small footprint.

English: Inwood #1

Harold Leidner Landscape Architects

Design ideas for a traditional patio in Dallas with a water feature.

Kelly Fleming Wines

Taylor Lombardo Architects

Adrián Gregorutti
Inspiration for a courtyard patio in San Francisco with a water feature, gravel and no cover.

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.

Contemporary Outdoor Living Area

Savvy Design Group

Michael Jacob
Design ideas for a contemporary backyard patio in St Louis with a water feature, a roof extension and concrete slab.

Saratoga Springs, NY Residence

Mandy's Spring Nursery and Landscaping

Pergola on stone pillars with flagstone patio. Field stone retaining wall with plant beds, and waterfall.
Photo of a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in New York with a water feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

English Inspired Country House

Archer & Buchanan Architecture, Ltd.

This is an example of a mediterranean backyard patio in Philadelphia with a water feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Spanish/Mexican Colonial

Wendy Black Rodgers Interiors

Design ideas for a patio in Phoenix with brick pavers and a water feature.

Modern Fountain - Elm Grove, WI

Ginkgo Leaf Studio

A small, pond-less water feature allows for the sights and sounds of water without a lot of maintenance. A more contemporary water feature vs a typical fountain. Westhauser Photography

Urban Outdoor Living

Trevor Fulmer Design

To create a colonial outdoor living space, we gut renovated this patio, incorporating heated bluestones, a custom traditional fireplace and bespoke furniture. The space was divided into three distinct zones for cooking, dining, and lounging. Firing up the built-in gas grill or a relaxing by the fireplace, this space brings the inside out.

Whittfield Residence

One Source Outdoors/One Landscape

A modern courtyard patio area in Las Vegas, NV.
Small modern courtyard patio in Las Vegas with a water feature and tile.

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.

Ranch Hacienda

Argue Custom Homes

This is an example of a mediterranean courtyard patio in Phoenix with a water feature and no cover.

Monaco Luxury Pools - Pacific Mist

Jeri Koegel Photography

Photo of a contemporary backyard patio in Orange County with a water feature, tile and no cover.

Amante

J. Montgomery Designs, Inc.

Design ideas for a mediterranean patio in San Francisco with a water feature and tile.

Clarksville Charmer

Yellow Door Design

Dror Baldinger
Contemporary patio in Austin with a water feature and no cover.

Haus und Garten: 1 Stil

Rinn Beton- und Naturstein

Die Terrasse passt mit den großen Terrassenplatten sowie den Stufen und Sitzblöcken in der hochwertigen, edlen Ausführung sehr gut zum Stil des Hauses. © Rinn Beton- und Naturstein

Front Yard Patio – Tranquil Outdoor Refuge

Southview Design

In the front yard, one of Southview's landscape architects designed a welcoming courtyard/front entry. Just large enough for a table, a couple of chairs, a small fountain, and flowers, the courtyard is separated from the street by a low mortared limestone wall. The space hints at privacy but invites the neighbors in for conversation and evening refreshments.

Patio Design Ideas with a Water 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!