A found manzanita branch becomes an artful addition to a wabi sabi garden.
Mid-sized mediterranean backyard patio in San Luis Obispo with a vertical garden, decking and no cover.

M+S: Jacuzzy

Studio 84 Interiors

This family-friendly pergola with a Jacuzzi has been designed to reward the senses and bring a relaxed atmosphere. Being in the garden is the favourite activity of our client - a landscape designer - so we have created this special corner where he can appreciate the beauty of his garden while enjoying a warm bath.

Robinson St.

LETTER FOUR, INC.

Photo of a large modern side yard patio in Los Angeles with decking and no cover.

RAD Structures

Randy Angell Designs

Inspiration for a mid-sized modern backyard patio in Dallas with an outdoor kitchen, decking and an awning.

Un patio de ville

User

Un projet de patio urbain en pein centre de Nantes. Un petit havre de paix désormais, élégant et dans le soucis du détail. Du bois et de la pierre comme matériaux principaux. Un éclairage différencié mettant en valeur les végétaux est mis en place.

Project 3419-1 Outdoor Living Space Screen Porch Deck Porch Bar Minneapolis

Castle Building & Remodeling

This modern home, near Cedar Lake, built in 1900, was originally a corner store. A massive conversion transformed the home into a spacious, multi-level residence in the 1990’s. However, the home’s lot was unusually steep and overgrown with vegetation. In addition, there were concerns about soil erosion and water intrusion to the house. The homeowners wanted to resolve these issues and create a much more useable outdoor area for family and pets. Castle, in conjunction with Field Outdoor Spaces, designed and built a large deck area in the back yard of the home, which includes a detached screen porch and a bar & grill area under a cedar pergola. The previous, small deck was demolished and the sliding door replaced with a window. A new glass sliding door was inserted along a perpendicular wall to connect the home’s interior kitchen to the backyard oasis. The screen house doors are made from six custom screen panels, attached to a top mount, soft-close track. Inside the screen porch, a patio heater allows the family to enjoy this space much of the year. Concrete was the material chosen for the outdoor countertops, to ensure it lasts several years in Minnesota’s always-changing climate. Trex decking was used throughout, along with red cedar porch, pergola and privacy lattice detailing. The front entry of the home was also updated to include a large, open porch with access to the newly landscaped yard. Cable railings from Loftus Iron add to the contemporary style of the home, including a gate feature at the top of the front steps to contain the family pets when they’re let out into the yard. Tour this project in person, September 28 – 29, during the 2019 Castle Home Tour!

Wynnewood, PA: Black and White Outdoor Patio

Bella B Home Designs

Black and white outdoor furniture is so classic. This small alcove needed to be a fun outdoor hang out spot. We paired this classic set with an outdoor area rug, console, and outdoor greens to bring the space to life.

Herrin Project

Timberline Patio Covers

Attached gable style patio cover with cedar soffit and privacy fence.
Photo of a mid-sized arts and crafts backyard patio in Seattle with decking and a roof extension.

Outdoor Living South London by Simon Orchard Gardens

Solus Decor UK Ltd

Simon Orchard Garden Design
Inspiration for a large contemporary backyard patio in Surrey with a fire feature, decking and no cover.

Quality Builders LLC

Inspiration for a large contemporary backyard patio in Miami with an outdoor kitchen, decking and a roof extension.

Custom Patio Cover Built In With The Deck

LA FENCE CRAFT

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Los Angeles with decking and a pergola.

Patio Partition and more

WWOO Concrete Outdoor Kitchens, LLC

Close up view of 20' long WWOO Concrete e Outdoor Kitchen. Installed right beside the patio which helps enclose the patio. Equipped with small BGE, WWOO Stainless Steel sink, WWOO Cutting boards, and WWOO wooden boxes.

Kitchen & living room addition including an outdoor living space

Greater Pacific Construction

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen, a roof extension and decking.

Contemporary Pergola + Hot Tub

BonaVista LeisureScapes

This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Toronto with decking and a pergola.

EAST FREMANTLE OLD MEETS NEW

Cultivart Landscape Design

Peta North
Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Perth with decking and a roof extension.

Budget Blinds Product Gallery

Budget Blinds of Bellingham

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Orange County with a container garden, decking and a roof extension.

Hot Tub with City View

Wolf Design Studio

Large modern backyard patio in Los Angeles with a vertical garden, decking and no cover.

Rooftop Gardens and Urban Farming

Native Sun Gardens

San Francisco Rooftop Urban Garden. Photo Cred: Joshua Thayer
Photo of a small modern courtyard patio in San Francisco with decking, a roof extension and a vertical garden.

Сад "Динамика движения"

Садовый мир

Traditional patio in Other with decking, a gazebo/cabana and a vertical garden.

Inspiration för solskydd

Moogio

This is an example of a mid-sized scandinavian backyard patio in Other with an awning and decking.

Patio Design Ideas with Decking

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!