This project allowed us the opportunity to think outside the box and put a unique twist on a cooler. Along with the homeowner, we careful chose a boulder that we felt complimented the esthetic style of the mountain landscape. Once the rock was chosen, we carved and filed stone down to look like a rustic cooler. This is the perfect addition and attention grabber to any outdoor seating area.

Paver Patios

Autumn Hill Patio & Landscape

EP Henry 'Bristol stone' paver patio with 'seat' walls , installation by Autumn Hill Patio & Landscape, Wilmington, DE
Design ideas for a mid-sized country backyard patio in Wilmington with concrete pavers, no cover and a fire feature.

Mill Valley Cottage to Home Transformation

Jetton Construction, Inc.

This property was transformed from an 1870s YMCA summer camp into an eclectic family home, built to last for generations. Space was made for a growing family by excavating the slope beneath and raising the ceilings above. Every new detail was made to look vintage, retaining the core essence of the site, while state of the art whole house systems ensure that it functions like 21st century home. This home was featured on the cover of ELLE Décor Magazine in April 2016. G.P. Schafer, Architect Rita Konig, Interior Designer Chambers & Chambers, Local Architect Frederika Moller, Landscape Architect Eric Piasecki, Photographer

Outdoor Structures

Ettore Masonry Inc.

Photo of a large arts and crafts backyard patio in Philadelphia with a fire feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Home Design - Larsson

Webb & Brown-Neaves

Contemporary courtyard patio in Perth with concrete pavers and a pergola.

Extravagance on the River

Baine Contracting, Inc.

In ground pool over looks the river and out on the island.
Expansive traditional backyard patio in New York with a water feature, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Pusch Ridge View

Prideaux Design

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

Normandy Neighborhood

Griffin Architects, P.A.

An outdoor "room" was defined for this patio by the L shape of the home which creates positive outdoor space.The brick patio surface is repeated at the window sills above native stone walls to create continuity and detail. Photo by David Dietrich

Traditional Westport

Oliver Design Associates

This is an example of a mid-sized arts and crafts backyard patio in New York with a fire feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Mar Vista Residence - Addition

Valery Augustin AIA | DNA Architecture + Design

New concrete patio at existing residence.
Photo of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with concrete pavers.

Outdoor Kitchen and Bar

FormLA Landscaping

Trellises of edible grape surround an outdoor bar and BBQ. Photos: Orly Olivier
Large beach style backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen and concrete pavers.

Three Rooms in One: A Family Room Addition in Newburyport, MA

Keery Design

Photo of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Boston with brick pavers and no cover.

Contemporary Garden Boulder

High Desert Designs, llc

Allium (ornamental onion), coral bells and vinca create a showy patio-side garden. Anne Hartshorn
Small contemporary courtyard patio in Denver with concrete pavers, no cover and a vertical garden.

Mars, PA Addition

J. Francis Company LLC

Brian High Photography
This is an example of a large contemporary backyard patio in Other with an outdoor kitchen, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Pavers

MFS Masonry

Large traditional backyard patio in New York with concrete pavers, no cover and an outdoor kitchen.

Oakland Hills Residence

studio M MERGE

Marion Brenner
Design ideas for a large modern backyard patio in San Francisco with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Traditional Homes

RDM General Contractors

Ryan Garvin
This is an example of a large beach style backyard patio in Orange County with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a roof extension.

Berlin Lake Patio

New Beginnings Landscape Inc.

Outdoor lighting
Mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Other with a fire feature, brick pavers and a pergola.

Traditional Backyard - Whitefish Bay

Ginkgo Leaf Studio

The view of the new patio and plantings from the custom gate connecting house and garage. The ‘Apollo’ columnar maple will help hide the duplex next door as they mature. Westhauser Photography

Custom Outdoor Kitchens and Patios

Backyard Builders

Large country backyard patio in New Orleans with an outdoor kitchen, brick pavers and a roof extension.

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!