Photo of a transitional patio in Los Angeles with an awning.

Green Oaks Atherton

Dennis Mayer - Photographer

Dennis Mayer Photographer
Design ideas for a backyard patio in San Francisco with a water feature and an awning.

Outdoor Dinner Terrace

Exterior Worlds Landscaping & Design

This is an example of a small transitional side yard patio in Houston with concrete slab and an awning.

Modern Asian Eichler

Monarch Gardens, Inc.

This is an example of a midcentury courtyard patio in San Francisco with an awning.

The Montana House

Mitchell Wall Architecture and Design

It is a great opportunity to create a home in Saint Louis, using design criteria, sensitivities and materials associated with the Northwest. Our clients, a world traveled couple whose second home is in Montana, commissioned us to do just that. Over six tons of stone were brought in from Montana to complement the hand built wooden trusses and rough-hewn lumber sourced locally. Having lived in Europe for many years, the couple is sophisticated with specific objectives. The beautiful millwork in the interior and exterior spaces reflects their taste. The gathering room has a vaulted ceiling but is not cavernous due to the dark elements created by the lumber and color selections. The wagon wheel light fixture is a focal point in the room, along with the Montanan stone floor to ceiling fireplace which mirrors the one outdoors. The millwork frames the room and provides the home with its lovely natural, rustic ambiance which plays well with lighting and outdoor living spaces. The front façade is closed to the street, but the back explodes, with a wall of doors that open to the outdoor living and landscaping. Outdoor living space includes fabulous millwork, a beautiful stone fireplace which complements the interior fireplace, seating areas, a dining table and a full kitchen. The outdoor kitchen includes a grill, oven, storage, an icemaker and a refrigerator. The lower level is inviting with its millwork, it’s full bar and a home theatre. Again the timber frames the bar area and the rustic feel is defined by the millwork and the Montana stone. The ceiling is tongue in groove with decorative trusses that include peg details and corbels. Decorative outdoor lanterns add to the ambiance. Log storage integrated into the main feature, the fireplace. Attention to detail include unusual millwork and lanterns.

An Edible Garden

Nancy Berghold Designer @ Studio Berghold

Wood Fence Detail
Design ideas for a small contemporary backyard patio in San Francisco with a vegetable garden, concrete slab and an awning.

Claremont - Master Patio

Real Estate Judge

Small transitional backyard patio in Phoenix with decomposed granite and an awning.

Hip Yet Sophisticated Denver Ranch

User

Ron Ruscio
Design ideas for a midcentury patio in Denver with concrete slab and an awning.

Transitional Renovation

State College Distributors

Photo of a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Orange County with natural stone pavers and an awning.

Kamath job - Chino Hills, CA

Patio Warehouse Inc.

Design ideas for a traditional patio in Orange County with concrete pavers and an awning.

The Dicenzo Project

Pratt Guys

We transformed this backyard into a garden oasis. Whether gathering around the fire pit feature or relaxing under the pergola with the sounds of a garden waterfall, you'll always find a way to relax in a place like this.

Our Projects

Castlewood Doors & Millwork

This is an example of a mid-sized arts and crafts front yard patio in Denver with an awning.

Mediterranean Villa Style Custom Home

Tommy Cashiola

Gorgeously Built by Tommy Cashiola Construction Company in Fulshear, Houston, Texas. Designed by Purser Architectural, Inc.
Photo of a large mediterranean courtyard patio in Houston with a water feature, brick pavers and an awning.

Kenilworth

Oakley Home Builders

Photo of a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and an awning.

Palm Beach Island Retreat

Creative Construction & Management LLC

The inviting courtyard makes for a charming entrance and lovely entertaining area. Hand-made Portuguese tiles and bronze lighting fixtures add interest to the outdoor kitchen.

Awnings

Overhead Door Company of Roseburg

Inspiration for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Other with concrete slab and an awning.

Trilogy

Rhoads Design & Construction

Photography by Starboard & Port of Springfield, Missouri.
Expansive industrial backyard patio in Other with a water feature, concrete slab and an awning.

Hardscape & Outdoor Features

Hawkins Pools

Custom front entry path with stamped concrete leading to flagstone patio.
Photo of a large contemporary front yard patio in San Francisco with stamped concrete and an awning.

Pool deck/pool final

UNEKUAL Construction

Inspiration for a large modern backyard patio in Miami with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and an awning.

Gubbins Residence Historical House Coral Gables Florida

Eolo A&I Design

Mid-sized backyard patio in Miami with tile and an awning.

Patio Design Ideas with 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!