This is an example of a small contemporary backyard patio in Philadelphia with a water feature, brick pavers and a pergola.

Lafayette Country French Pool and Landscape

Viator & Associates Inc

Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional side yard patio in New Orleans with a water feature, brick pavers and no cover.

Courtyard Retreat

Noble Knights Construction Services, Inc.

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

Tuscan Style Home by Jim Boles Custom Homes

Jim Boles Custom Homes

Jim Boles Custom Homes - Tuscan style featuring private court yard, extravagant kitchen, custom ceilings and cabinetry, photographer Vernon Wentz.
Inspiration for a mediterranean backyard patio in Austin with brick pavers and a water feature.

Pleasant Valley

Molly Ray Young

Outdoor patio and backyard photographed by Rett Peek
Photo of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Little Rock with a water feature, brick pavers and no cover.

Traditional Patio

Design ideas for a traditional patio in Raleigh with a water feature, brick pavers and no cover.

Small space landscape design

Bevins & Company Landscape/Design

Design ideas for a mid-sized arts and crafts side yard patio in Louisville with a water feature and brick pavers.

Tucson Oasis

Santa Rita Landscaping, Inc.

Dining area nestled underneath large existing mesquite trees. Photos by Meagan Hancock
This is an example of a mid-sized mediterranean backyard patio in Phoenix with a water feature, brick pavers and no cover.

City: McDougald Residence

Linda McDougald Design | Postcard from Paris Home

Linda McDougald, principal and lead designer of Linda McDougald Design l Postcard from Paris Home, re-designed and renovated her home, which now showcases an innovative mix of contemporary and antique furnishings set against a dramatic linen, white, and gray palette. The English country home features floors of dark-stained oak, white painted hardwood, and Lagos Azul limestone. Antique lighting marks most every room, each of which is filled with exquisite antiques from France. At the heart of the re-design was an extensive kitchen renovation, now featuring a La Cornue Chateau range, Sub-Zero and Miele appliances, custom cabinetry, and Waterworks tile.

Dallas Small Yard - Spectacular Pool/Fountain

Mike Farley Pool Designer, SWD, ASLA

Dallas Small Yard - Spectacular Fountain/Pool. This one of a kind fountain blends with this traditional home and is inspired by Italy's Villa D' Este Walk of 100 Fountains. To create a lush garden feel and still have lots of room for gatherings generally is a challenge but we were able to strike the right balance. The center fountain provides a focal point from the home. The brick patterns and color was an exact match to the home brick details and was carried to the brick surround of the fountain sconces. Also, the center water feature provides some seating with the raised basin and tied in with the raised planters which created maximum privacy with the plantings. The lower basin provided a wrap around feature to enjoy throughout the space and lengthen the line of sight. Black Granite was used inside the feature for more reflection and contrast. Lush plantings, pots, a living green wall and the synthetic grass create a definite garden feel, but still allow plenty of space to entertain all day or all night under the string lights. So come on over and enjoy this small but sensational backyard. FarleyPoolDesigns.com

The Crosby Estate

Felicia Khor Designs

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in San Diego with a water feature, brick pavers and no cover.

Los Angeles

Salisbury & Manus

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Los Angeles with a water feature, brick pavers and no cover.

Belgard Design Gallery

T-Scape Inc.

Design ideas for a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Providence with a water feature, brick pavers and no cover.

Allen & Mimi Martinson Projects

Martinson's Garden Works

Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional courtyard patio in Jackson with a water feature, brick pavers and no cover.

Moorish-Inspired Hacienda Courtyard

Clemens & Associates Inc.

Hacienda-style front courtyard with a Mediterranean- stye carved stone fountain with blue tile and rustic-style wood outdoor seating with plush cushions. Photo Credit: Kirk Gittings

Orinda Outdoor Space

Maria Tenaglia Design

Robert Whitworth Creative
Inspiration for a contemporary backyard patio in San Francisco with a water feature, brick pavers and a roof extension.

Maryland Estate Outdoor Spaces

Jessy Krol Designs LLC

Inspiration for a large traditional backyard patio in New York with brick pavers, no cover and a water feature.

Midtown Courtyard Garden

Fern Valley

Photo of a large traditional backyard patio in Atlanta with a water feature, brick pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

West Bell

William W. Stubbs and Associates

Inspiration for a mid-sized traditional courtyard patio in Houston with a water feature, brick pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Casa Smith's California Garden

Casa Smith Designs, LLC

A quiet space for two, perfect for reading a book under the shade of a large tree. Photo Credit: Mark Pinkerton, vi360
Design ideas for a large mediterranean backyard patio in San Francisco with brick pavers and a water feature.

Patio Design Ideas with a Water Feature and Brick Pavers

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!