Hood House is a playful protector that respects the heritage character of Carlton North whilst celebrating purposeful change. It is a luxurious yet compact and hyper-functional home defined by an exploration of contrast: it is ornamental and restrained, subdued and lively, stately and casual, compartmental and open. For us, it is also a project with an unusual history. This dual-natured renovation evolved through the ownership of two separate clients. Originally intended to accommodate the needs of a young family of four, we shifted gears at the eleventh hour and adapted a thoroughly resolved design solution to the needs of only two. From a young, nuclear family to a blended adult one, our design solution was put to a test of flexibility. The result is a subtle renovation almost invisible from the street yet dramatic in its expressive qualities. An oblique view from the northwest reveals the playful zigzag of the new roof, the rippling metal hood. This is a form-making exercise that connects old to new as well as establishing spatial drama in what might otherwise have been utilitarian rooms upstairs. A simple palette of Australian hardwood timbers and white surfaces are complimented by tactile splashes of brass and rich moments of colour that reveal themselves from behind closed doors. Our internal joke is that Hood House is like Lazarus, risen from the ashes. We’re grateful that almost six years of hard work have culminated in this beautiful, protective and playful house, and so pleased that Glenda and Alistair get to call it home.

1950s Bungalow

Naomi

Design ideas for a mid-sized midcentury backyard patio in San Francisco with brick pavers and a pergola.

Private home - Atlanta, Georgia

RetractableAwnings.com Inc.

The client’s intention was for installation of a retractable waterproof patio cover system to provide heavy rain, hail, heat, sun, glare and UV protection for their backyard patio area.

Shade Sails

Turf World Co.

Turf World Co. Parma. Ohio
Large traditional backyard patio in Cleveland with brick pavers and an awning.

Channahon Brick Patio

KD Landscape

This two-tiered space offers lower level seating near the swimming pool and upper level seating for a view of the Illinois River. Planter boxes with annuals, perennials and container plantings warm the space. The retaining walls add additional seating space and a small grill enclosure is tucked away in the corner.

Lake at White Oak Outdoor Kitchen

Angelo's Landscape Group

This is an example of a large mediterranean backyard patio in New Orleans with an outdoor kitchen, brick pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Purple Rain

Mom's Design Build

Small traditional backyard patio in Minneapolis with with fireplace, brick pavers and a pergola.

Custom Residence | Siroma

Divco Custom Homes

Transitional backyard patio in Miami with an outdoor kitchen, brick pavers and a roof extension.

Modern Farmhouse Bellaire Showcase

Stone Acorn Builders

Mid-sized country backyard patio in Houston with an outdoor kitchen, brick pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Luxury staging and Design

Eden Designs

Design ideas for a mid-sized beach style backyard patio in Miami with brick pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Ideal Outdoor Living Spaces

Trinity Homes of Las Cruces

Mediterranean courtyard patio in Austin with an outdoor kitchen, brick pavers and a pergola.

New Urban Garden

SED Design

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

Park Slope Residence

Gradient Architecture PLLC

Photography by Travis Mark.
This is an example of a large traditional backyard patio in New York with a container garden, brick pavers and a pergola.

Midwest Outdoor Living in a Bird Lover's Backyard

The Cleary Company

Daniel Feldkamp @ Visual Edge Imaging
Large transitional backyard patio in Columbus with brick pavers and a pergola.

Lanai & Outdoor Dining Naples Florida Vacation Home

Summer Thornton Design, Inc

Lanai and outdoor kitchen with blue and white tile backsplash and wicker furniture for outdoor dining and lounge space overlooking the pool. Project featured in House Beautiful & Florida Design. Interiors & Styling by Summer Thornton. Photos by Brantley Photography

Porches and Patios

Screens of Kentucky, LLC

Design ideas for a large traditional backyard patio in Orange County with a roof extension and brick pavers.

Spring House

V Fine Homes

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Dallas with brick pavers and a roof extension.

Pleasanton Outdoor Great Room

Gayler Design Build

Our client, a young executive in the cosmetics industry, wanted to take advantage of a very large, empty space between her house and pool to create a beautiful and functional outdoor living space to entertain family and clients, and to hold business meetings. Gayler Design Build, in collaboration with Jeff Culbertson/Culbertson Durst Interiors, designed and built this gorgeous Outdoor Great Room. She needed a place that could accommodate a small group of 8 for Sunday brunch, to a large corporate gathering of 35 colleagues. She wanted the outdoor great room to be contemporary (so that it coordinated with the interior of her home), comfortable and inviting.   Clear span roof design allowed for maximum space underneath and heaters and fans were added for climate control, along with 2 TVs and a stereo system for entertaining. The bar seats 6, and has a large Fire Magic BBQ and 2 burner cooktop, 2 under counter refrigerators, a warming drawer and assorted cabinets and drawers.

Pool Cabana and Sitting Area

Terra Ferma Landscapes

Large traditional backyard patio in San Francisco with brick pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Viso Residence

Lionel F Bailey AIA Architect LLC

Oivanki Photography | www.oivanki.com
This is an example of a large traditional backyard patio in New Orleans with an outdoor kitchen, brick pavers and a roof extension.

All Covers Patio Design Ideas with 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!