Rustic Modern Outdoor Entertainment Retreat

This spacious, multi-level backyard in San Luis Obispo, CA, once completely underutilized and overtaken by weeds, was converted into the ultimate outdoor entertainment space with a custom pool and spa as the centerpiece. A cabana with a built-in storage bench, outdoor TV and wet bar provide a protected place to chill during hot pool days, and a screened outdoor shower nearby is perfect for rinsing off after a dip. A hammock attached to the master deck and the adjacent pool deck are ideal for relaxing and soaking up some rays. The stone veneer-faced water feature wall acts as a backdrop for the pool area, and transitions into a retaining wall dividing the upper and lower levels. An outdoor sectional surrounds a gas fire bowl to create a cozy spot to entertain in the evenings, with string lights overhead for ambiance. A Belgard paver patio connects the lounge area to the outdoor kitchen with a Bull gas grill and cabinetry, polished concrete counter tops, and a wood bar top with seating. The outdoor kitchen is tucked in next to the main deck, one of the only existing elements that remain from the previous space, which now functions as an outdoor dining area overlooking the entire yard. Finishing touches included low-voltage LED landscape lighting, pea gravel mulch, and lush planting areas and outdoor decor.

Lake Lanier Infinity Edge

Boyce Design + Build

This custom pool and spa features an infinity edge with a tile spillover and beautiful cascading water feature. The open air gable roof cabana houses an outdoor kitchen with stainless steel appliances, raised bar area and a large custom stacked stone fireplace and seating area making it the ideal place for relaxing or entertaining.

Outdoor Kitchen Photos

Irwin Outdoors

Inspiration for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Tampa with an outdoor kitchen, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Anderson Property

Paradise Restored Landscaping & Exterior Design

Covered structure with gas fireplace, outdoor tv. outdoor speakers, outdoor kitchen with bar, waterfeature with pondless effect, architectural slabs, brick patio, brick retaining wall, outdoor living space, oudoor dining area, outdoor lighting, granite countertops, outdoor overhead heater, exterior design, breezeway, privacy screening.

Arbors & Pergolas

DiSabatino Landscaping and Tree Care

This is an example of a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Wilmington with concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Bring your life outdoors!

CAT IN A HAMMOCK

Refinished fireplace
Inspiration for a large modern backyard patio in Los Angeles with with fireplace, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

A Relaxing Anytime Retreat

Outdoor Dreams

Photo of a large traditional backyard patio in Richmond with with fireplace, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Backyard Retreat in North Bend

Alderwood Landscape Architecture and Construction

Photo of a large traditional backyard patio in Seattle with with fireplace, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Vue de Catalina

Bianchi Design

These clients decided to make this home their Catalina Mountain homestead, after living abroad for many years. The prior yard enclosed only a small portion of their available property, and a wall obstructed their city lights view of northern Tucson. We expanded the yard outward to take advantage of the space and to also integrate the topography change into a 360 vanishing edge pool. The home previously had log columns in keeping with a territorial motif. To bring it up to date, concrete cylindrical columns were put in their place, which allowed us to expand the shaded locations throughout the yard in an updated way, as seen by the new retractable canvas shade structures. Constructed by Mike Rowland, you can see how well he pulled off the projects precise detailing of Bianchi's Design. Note the cantilevered concrete steps, the slot of fire in the midst of the spa, the stair treads that don't quite touch the adjacent walls, and the columns that float just above the pool water.

Eicher Project

Outdoor Artisan, Inc.

Photo by BruceSaundersPhotography.com
Photo of a large arts and crafts backyard patio in Charlotte with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Braeswood Place Outdoor Covered Patio, Sunroom and Balcony

Remodelers of Houston

Detached covered patio made of custom milled cypress which is durable and weather-resistant. Amenities include a full outdoor kitchen, masonry wood burning fireplace and porch swing.

Project Gallery

Toby Hartline Custom Homes & Remodeling

Photo of a mid-sized country backyard patio in Austin with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Small Backyard for Entertaining

The Garden Wizard

This is an example of a mid-sized arts and crafts backyard patio in Toronto with concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Additional Work

Low Voltage Lighting

Great sample of specialty deck lighting
Inspiration for a large tropical backyard patio in Los Angeles with concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Yale Ave. Marina Del Rey (2nd)

Creative Builders

Tomer Benyehuda
Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Residential Interior/Exterior

Spaces Interior Design

Emily Harms
This is an example of a large modern backyard patio in Omaha with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

porch with hand crafted brackets

Paul Haugen Construction LLC.

Design ideas for a large traditional backyard patio in Seattle with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Cary outdoor living room

Down to Earth Designs, Inc.

Custom outdoor living space, covered pavilion for grilling and entertaining. © 2012 Ben Case, Down to Earth Designs, Inc.
Mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Raleigh with an outdoor kitchen, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Wild Timber 1

Holloway Company Inc.

Designed & Built by Holloway Company Inc.
This is an example of a large traditional backyard patio in DC Metro with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

It's a Wonderful (Outdoor) Life

Outdoor Dreams

Design ideas for a large traditional backyard patio in Richmond with with fireplace, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Patio Design Ideas with Concrete Pavers and a Gazebo/Cabana

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!