This is an example of a mediterranean patio in San Diego with brick pavers and a water feature.

© Lauren Devon www.laurendevon.com
This is an example of a mid-sized traditional courtyard patio in San Francisco with a water feature and natural stone pavers.

Montecito Exterior

Jessica Risko Smith Interior Design

Photos by Lepere Studio
This is an example of a large traditional backyard patio in Santa Barbara with a water feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Architect: Jon C Bernhard

SWABACK pllc

Indoor-Outdoor Living with beautiful city views
Inspiration for a courtyard patio in Phoenix with a water feature.

Mediterranean Patio

Design ideas for a mediterranean patio in Los Angeles with a water feature.

Grounded - Modern Landscape Architecture

Grounded - Richard Risner RLA, ASLA

Grounded - Modern Landscape Architecture
Inspiration for a contemporary patio in San Diego with a water feature.

Potager

Adam Vetere Landscape and Garden Design

Nicola Stocken
This is an example of a mid-sized traditional side yard patio in Berkshire with a water feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Canyon Modern

Joel Reis Architecture and Real Estate Photography

Inspiration for a large mediterranean backyard patio in Los Angeles with a water feature, gravel and a roof extension.

Purdue

Savannah Surfaces, Inc.

Inspiration for an expansive mediterranean backyard patio in Other with a water feature, natural stone pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Larkspur Custom Home 2

Patterson Custom Homes

Photo of a beach style courtyard patio in Orange County with a water feature and a pergola.

Kalorama Contemporary

Horn & Co. (Previously JHLA)

Small asian backyard patio in DC Metro with a water feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Fountains

Carolina Scape Artists, LLC

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Other with a water feature, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Rancho Mission Viejo New Community Patio and BBQ Remodel

System Pavers

Full backyard design. This was a brand new home with a clean slate in the backyard. The homeowners wanted a space for outdoor dining and entertaining. We designed a long paver walkway leading through their garden, an oversized paver patio centered around a custom gas fire pit, a covered pergola and a full built in BBQ island. Lastly, we added a water feature to enhance the tranquility and relaxation vibes.

Custom Pools LLC

Inspiration for a mid-sized modern backyard patio in St Louis with a water feature and concrete slab.

Portfolio

Ambiance Unlimited, Inc.

Design ideas for a mid-sized tropical backyard patio in Los Angeles with a water feature, no cover and concrete slab.

Landscape

Ruckel / Dillon / Wright, Inc.

Large transitional backyard patio in Houston with a water feature and natural stone pavers.

Back Yard Transformation in Covedale

Neal's Design Remodel

Robin Victor Goetz/www.GoRVGP.com
Photo of an expansive transitional backyard patio in Cincinnati with natural stone pavers, no cover and a water feature.

Spanish influenced designs

Clint Miller Architect

The home owner desired a home that would grace their Arcadia neighborhood in a subtle manner and echo the original ranch homes of the area. To achieve this desire, they drew on architectural influences from both Ranch Hacienda and Rural Mediterranean. Ranch Hacienda architecture is reflective of historical ranch heritage from rural Arizona and traditional Spanish Hacienda style homes. It is defined by the prominent use of two primary building materials: stone and exterior plaster. This style projects casual informality, characterized by the use of traditional clay tile roofs, timbers, and exposed rafter tails. Informal and asymmetrical rectilinear forms characterize the Rural Mediterranean style, while gable shed roofs create a charming country appearance similar to those in old world vineyards. The primary façade and entry create a friendly and inviting atmosphere. By positioning the home’s long axis perpendicular to the street, the main room is exposed to dramatic views of the Camelback Mountain and, as well, protected from direct sun exposure. Thus, the north courtyard presents direct views of Camelback and offers a very comfortable gathering place for residents and guests to enjoy their favorite glass of wine, during delightful conversation.

Pergola View

Haver & Skolnick LLC Architects

The garden is defined by a pergola of fieldstone posts topped with carved cedar beams. Robert Benson Photography
Photo of a large country courtyard patio in New York with a water feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Our Work

Welsh & Associates, Inc

Photo of a large arts and crafts backyard patio in Charlotte with a water feature, decking and a pergola.

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!