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.

The Fig Trees

Tania J Coward ARCHITECT

Design ideas for a beach style patio in Brisbane with concrete pavers and a pergola.

Beekman NY

MLC Masonry Inc.

Rocco Smith Photography
Inspiration for a traditional patio in New York with brick pavers and a fire feature.

Patio, porch, sod & plantings - a backyard transformation

Flores Artscape

West Los Angeles
This is an example of a contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with concrete pavers.

Masterfully Designed Outdoor Living Space in Arcadia

Unique Landscapes and Custom Pools

This masterfully designed outdoor living space feels open, airy, and filled with light thanks to the lighter finishes and the fabric pergola shade. Clean, modern lines and a muted color palette add to the spa-like feel of this outdoor living space.

Schiff Patio

Design Platform

Modern outdoor patio expansion. Indoor-Outdoor Living and Dining. Poured concrete walls, steel posts, bluestain pine ceilings, skylights, standing seam metal roof, firepit, and modern landscaping. Photo by Jess Blackwell

Custom Outdoor Kitchen

System Pavers

Celebrity Chef Sam Zien was tired of being confined to his small barbecue when filming grilling episodes for his new show. So, he came to us with a plan and we made it happen. We provided Sam with an extended L shaped pergola and L shape lounging area to match. In addition, we installed a giant built in barbecue and surrounding counter with plenty of seating for guests on or off camera. Zen vibes are important to Sam, so we were sure to keep that top of mind when finalizing even the smallest of details.

Lemont Landscaping

KD Landscape

The distinct spaces can be seen from this overhead view. The dining area is separated from the social space by three large containers on one side and from the fire pit by a low profile planting bed on the other side. A small grill with counter is conveniently located near the three season room. Landscape design by John Algozzini. Photo courtesy of Mike Crews Photography.

Reinventing the Railway Cottage

Clifton Interiors Ltd

This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in London with concrete pavers and no cover.

Wexford Covered Deck and Patio

Darrell C Kauric Architect LLC

Photo of a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Other with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a roof extension.

Ryley Court

In House Builders

Photo of a country patio in Sacramento with concrete pavers and a roof extension.

Greater Avenues Mid-Century Modern

Kyle Aiken

Utah Mid-Century Modern Patio Photo - https://www.kaikenphotography.com/

Houston St.

Lyrd Interiors

Photo of a contemporary front yard patio in Houston with concrete pavers and a pergola.

New Urban Garden

SED Design

Inspiration for a small contemporary backyard patio in Philadelphia with a water feature, brick pavers and a pergola.

Arcadia Spanish Colonial | Courtyard

Greey Pickett

The landscape of this home honors the formality of Spanish Colonial / Santa Barbara Style early homes in the Arcadia neighborhood of Phoenix. By re-grading the lot and allowing for terraced opportunities, we featured a variety of hardscape stone, brick, and decorative tiles that reinforce the eclectic Spanish Colonial feel. Cantera and La Negra volcanic stone, brick, natural field stone, and handcrafted Spanish decorative tiles are used to establish interest throughout the property. A front courtyard patio includes a hand painted tile fountain and sitting area near the outdoor fire place. This patio features formal Boxwood hedges, Hibiscus, and a rose garden set in pea gravel. The living room of the home opens to an outdoor living area which is raised three feet above the pool. This allowed for opportunity to feature handcrafted Spanish tiles and raised planters. The side courtyard, with stepping stones and Dichondra grass, surrounds a focal Crape Myrtle tree. One focal point of the back patio is a 24-foot hand-hammered wrought iron trellis, anchored with a stone wall water feature. We added a pizza oven and barbecue, bistro lights, and hanging flower baskets to complete the intimate outdoor dining space. Project Details: Landscape Architect: Greey|Pickett Architect: Higgins Architects Landscape Contractor: Premier Environments Photography: Scott Sandler

Walkout Patio and Landscape

NWI Patio Pros

Photo of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Chicago with concrete pavers and a pergola.

Another Lovely Sunny and Shaded Patio for Redwood City

Octagon Pavers and Outdoor Living

True Craftsmanship. Calstone Cream Tan Brown Herringbone and a lovely Pacific Clay Brown Flashed Border.
Photo of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in San Francisco with brick pavers.

The Abaco - Outdoor Living

Heritage Builders

Beautiful lakefront location with fire bowls/fountains. Vista is framed by coconut palms and stained tongue and groove ceiling.
Photo of an expansive beach style backyard patio in Tampa with an outdoor kitchen, concrete pavers and a roof extension.

Techo-Bloc | Outdoor Cooking Features

Elkton Supply

This is an example of a large traditional backyard patio in Baltimore with an outdoor kitchen, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Pennsylvania Flagstone patio (multi-level)

Stone River Masonry

Pennsylvania Flagstone patio with fieldstone vertical areas
This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in DC Metro with concrete pavers and no cover.

Patio Design Ideas with Concrete Pavers 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!