Project 3419-1 Outdoor Living Space Screen Porch Deck Porch Bar Minneapolis

This modern home, near Cedar Lake, built in 1900, was originally a corner store. A massive conversion transformed the home into a spacious, multi-level residence in the 1990’s. However, the home’s lot was unusually steep and overgrown with vegetation. In addition, there were concerns about soil erosion and water intrusion to the house. The homeowners wanted to resolve these issues and create a much more useable outdoor area for family and pets. Castle, in conjunction with Field Outdoor Spaces, designed and built a large deck area in the back yard of the home, which includes a detached screen porch and a bar & grill area under a cedar pergola. The previous, small deck was demolished and the sliding door replaced with a window. A new glass sliding door was inserted along a perpendicular wall to connect the home’s interior kitchen to the backyard oasis. The screen house doors are made from six custom screen panels, attached to a top mount, soft-close track. Inside the screen porch, a patio heater allows the family to enjoy this space much of the year. Concrete was the material chosen for the outdoor countertops, to ensure it lasts several years in Minnesota’s always-changing climate. Trex decking was used throughout, along with red cedar porch, pergola and privacy lattice detailing. The front entry of the home was also updated to include a large, open porch with access to the newly landscaped yard. Cable railings from Loftus Iron add to the contemporary style of the home, including a gate feature at the top of the front steps to contain the family pets when they’re let out into the yard. Tour this project in person, September 28 – 29, during the 2019 Castle Home Tour!

Mangaris Wood Custom Patio Screen

Outside InStyle

Mangaris wood privacy screen with changing widths to add interest. Porch wood screen blocks barbeque from deck patio view. Photo by Katrina Coombs
Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen, decking and a pergola.

Contemporary BBQ Island w/ Dining Counter

Conscious Environments Inc.

A simple BBQ island w/ adjacent dining counter and deck is a great place to cook, dine, and entertain. BBQ island features a large format porcelain slab, tile backsplash, and stainless steel appliances.

Pool and Patio Remodel After House Fire

yardscapes Inc.

Farmhouse remodel after house fire. This home was over 100+ years old and was recently lost in a house fire which required a pool, patio, and surrounding gardens to be remodeled. This outdoor kitchen was added right off the kitchen with a custom made metal bar and grill stand and stone top. It sits on top of a deck constructed out of IPE hardwood decking material.

Modern Outdoor Living - Willowsford in Aldie, VA

Interior Style by Marisa Moore

Design ideas for a transitional backyard patio in DC Metro with an outdoor kitchen, decking and a roof extension.

The New American Remodel 2019

By Design

This beautiful outdoor living space flows out from both the kitchen and the interior living space. Spacious dining adjacent to a full outdoor kitchen with gas grill, beer tap, under mount sink, refrigeration and storage cabinetry.

RAD Structures

Randy Angell Designs

Photo of a mid-sized modern backyard patio in Dallas with an outdoor kitchen, decking and an awning.

Organic Modern Mountain Home

Living Stone Design + Build

Photo of a mid-sized country backyard patio in Other with an outdoor kitchen, decking and a roof extension.

Outdoor

NorthPoint Appliance

Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Atlanta with an outdoor kitchen, decking and no cover.

Comfortable, Modern Home Renovation

Monarch & Maker

Holly Paulson
Inspiration for a large modern backyard patio in Houston with an outdoor kitchen, decking and a roof extension.

Kitchen & living room addition including an outdoor living space

Greater Pacific Construction

Inspiration for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen, decking and a roof extension.

Phantom Screens Design Gallery

Phantom Screens of Central Florida

This is an example of a large modern backyard patio in Orlando with an outdoor kitchen, decking and no cover.

Palms Residence

Electric Bowery

Design ideas for a contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen, decking and no cover.

Triple Play

Topiarius, Inc

Topiarius, Inc.
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Chicago with an outdoor kitchen, decking and a gazebo/cabana.

Varscliff

Trademark Renovations Ltd.

This is an example of a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Calgary with an outdoor kitchen, decking and an awning.

Varscliff

Trademark Renovations Ltd.

This is an example of a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Calgary with an outdoor kitchen, decking and an awning.

Cabanas and Patio Covers

Outer Image Design

Design ideas for a small traditional backyard patio in Houston with an outdoor kitchen, a gazebo/cabana and decking.

Private Residence North Beach - Miami

Opustone

Coral Stone
Photo of a large modern backyard patio in Miami with an outdoor kitchen, decking and a roof extension.

Outdoor Kitchens by Challenger Designs, LLC

Challenger Designs

Stephen Long Photography
Inspiration for a traditional backyard patio in Nashville with an outdoor kitchen, decking and no cover.

Cliffside Farmhouse // Modern Farmhouse

Younger Homes

This is an example of a large country backyard patio in Austin with an outdoor kitchen, decking and a roof extension.

Patio Design Ideas with an Outdoor Kitchen and Decking

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!