Patio with Water feature, Techo bloc and Trex producs

Techo bloc pavers : borealis, blu60 and antika
Photo of a large backyard patio in DC Metro with a water feature, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Pavers patio and basketball court

GPI Builders, Inc.

Inspiration for a large modern backyard patio in San Francisco with concrete pavers and a pergola.

contemporary southside duplex

AXIS Productions

Photo of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Denver with concrete pavers and no cover.

Small Space Courtyard

Living Gardens Landscape Design

This new construction home was a blank slate. Our clients wanted a seating area to enjoy with their family or friends. As the space is quite tiny, we designed a built-in bench with storage below and a fire pit that converts to a table on warmer days. We planted succulents at the base of the fire pit to soften the paving and planted low water but lush planting along the adjacent wall.

Outdoor Living with Fire Pit & Pergola

Burkhart Outdoors, Inc.

Unilock Olde Quarry Stone Blocks River Color with Ledgestone Grey Coping & Copthorne Basalt Sailor Detail. Belgard Laffit Paver Floor
This is an example of a mid-sized country backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Estate - Lindon, Utah (40)

Magleby Construction

Inspiration for an expansive country backyard patio in Salt Lake City with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a pergola.

The Patio

Conscious Environments Inc.

Design ideas for a mid-sized beach style backyard patio in Orange County with concrete pavers and a pergola.

Wooden Pavilions, Gazebo's & Pergola's

Designscapes of Long Island

This is an example of a large transitional backyard patio in New York with concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

IL-1Beta Teak Table 2

abarnai

The IL-1 Beta table was a unique and personalized birthday gift for renowned scientist Charles DInarello. We were commissioned to build a custom gift to represent three defining elements of his life; the refining of IL-1 Beta, one of his first monumental scientific achievements; his love of gardening and outdoor living spaces; and his enthusiasm for entertaining guests and fitting as many people around his table as possible (both figuratively and literally). We combined these three defining elements, and designed an outdoor table, a courtyard centerpiece, that would represent IL-1 Beta and enhance the scientist’s garden parties. One of the most important and challenging design aspects of the IL-1Beta table were the pedestal legs. The recipient of this beautiful gift, Dr. Dinarello, loves entertaining guests, introducing strangers, and encouraging conversation, so we designed a table that could sit many and then add more. The pedestals are each composed of seven pieces of wood that had to be assembled in a precise order for strength, stability and beauty. The table stands delicately with just the tips of the pedestal legs touching the ground, like a couple mid-waltz, poised and strong and light on the dance floor.

Curved Edge Patio with Fire Pit

Conceptual Outdoor Design

This is an example of a large traditional backyard patio in Other with a fire feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Mid-Century Outdoor Sanctuary

Kraft Custom Construction

After completing an interior remodel for this mid-century home in the South Salem hills, we revived the old, rundown backyard and transformed it into an outdoor living room that reflects the openness of the new interior living space. We tied the outside and inside together to create a cohesive connection between the two. The yard was spread out with multiple elevations and tiers, which we used to create “outdoor rooms” with separate seating, eating and gardening areas that flowed seamlessly from one to another. We installed a fire pit in the seating area; built-in pizza oven, wok and bar-b-que in the outdoor kitchen; and a soaking tub on the lower deck. The concrete dining table doubled as a ping-pong table and required a boom truck to lift the pieces over the house and into the backyard. The result is an outdoor sanctuary the homeowners can effortlessly enjoy year-round.

Texan's Carmel Inspired Retreat

Alterra Landscape Design

Design ideas for a large transitional backyard patio in Dallas with with fireplace, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Landscape

GCSF Pavers and Landscape

Inspiration for a small contemporary backyard patio in San Francisco with a container garden, concrete pavers and no cover.

Beauregard House

Low Design Office

Photo by Casey Dunn
Inspiration for a country courtyard patio in Austin with a container garden, concrete pavers and no cover.

A Relaxing Anytime Retreat

Outdoor Dreams

This is an example of a large traditional backyard patio in Richmond with with fireplace, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Kowski Project

Timberline Patio Covers

This project is a skillion style roof with an outdoor kitchen, entertainment, heaters, and gas fireplace! It has a super modern look with the white stone on the kitchen and fireplace that complements the house well.

Carona Del Mar

Anne Michaelsen Design

Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Orange County with no cover, a fire feature and concrete pavers.

Oliva

Brookside Landscape Design

View of custom fabricated steel patio cover with travertine floor. Photography: Brett J Hilton
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in San Diego with concrete pavers.

Bonita Bay FL Outdoor Kitchen and Living Space

Progressive Design Build

Completing this outdoor oasis was the design and construction of an outdoor kitchen. Located adjacent to the covered patio and indoor kitchen, this outdoor living area was upgraded from a partially covered patio to a fully functional outdoor kitchen with a full bank of slate-colored outdoor powdered stainless steel cabinetry by Danver. Anchoring the space is a stunning leather textured Fantasy Brown granite countertop, doubling as a dramatic backsplash behind the new grilling station (featuring a 36” Alfresco grill and 48” Proline hood). To complete this luxurious outdoor kitchen, we installed a Kohler Strive undermount stainless steel sink with a Kohler Simplice faucet, ice bin, U-Line outdoor under cabinet refrigerator, and a water heater.

Back Yard Renovation

Progressive Builders.LA

Photo of a large traditional backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Patio Design Ideas with Decomposed Granite and Concrete 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!