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.

Dartmouth House

Shane Marsh Architects

Photo of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Brisbane with a fire feature, gravel and an awning.

English Garden in the Bay Area

Karen Aitken and Associates

Photography by Brent Bear
Mid-sized traditional backyard patio in San Francisco with a container garden, brick pavers and a pergola.

Modern Farmhouse Bellaire Showcase

Stone Acorn Builders

Mid-sized country backyard patio in Houston with an outdoor kitchen, brick pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Lush Suburban Retreat

Visionscapes NW Landscape Design

Rustic fire pit made of steel is placed within a stone circle, and set on crushed gravel. The area is backed up by a grapevine-covered trellis that holds a bench swing. A lime green painted adirondack chair and cobalt blue seating pillows add color accents.

Napa Winery Outdoor Kitchen

Outdora

This is an example of a mid-sized country backyard patio in San Francisco with an outdoor kitchen, gravel and a pergola.

Classic Splendor

Mariani Landscape

A stunning landscape filled with traditional elements throughout. Knot gardens, formal boxwood gardens with a water feature at the center, dining under a plush pergola, and seating from front to back to enjoy every space. Multiple levels are created in the landscape with raised beds and views from the upper terrace. Extensive perennial beds fill the distance with color and texture. Photo Credit: Linda Oyama Bryan

KITCHEN GARDEN

URBANSCAPING LTD

Contemporary backyard patio in London with brick pavers and no cover.

Seneca Residence

Verdance Landscape Architecture

Once the existing brick patio was cleaned, the Woodard 'Sculptura' chair, bench and ottomans provide comfortable seating while a selection of framed succulents, as well as street art from the owner's collection, provide an interesting backdrop. Photo © Jude Parkinson-Morgan.

Wine Country Edible

Christian Douglas Design, Inc.

Mid-sized patio in San Francisco with a fire feature, a pergola and gravel.

Landscape and Backyards

Christiano Homes, Inc.

Landscape/exterior design - Molly Wood Garden Design Design - Mindy Gayer Design Photo - Lane Dittoe
Inspiration for a beach style backyard patio in Orange County with brick pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Landscaping

J&M Contracting

Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Other with a fire feature, brick pavers and no cover.

Midwest Outdoor Living in a Bird Lover's Backyard

The Cleary Company

Photo of a large transitional backyard patio in Columbus with brick pavers and a pergola.

Glen Iris O'Neal Farmhouse 2

Signature Homes

Design ideas for a large transitional backyard patio in Birmingham with a fire feature, brick pavers and a roof extension.

Patio Retreat

King's Landscape Design

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

Churchill- Wendover B

Simonini Homes

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Charlotte with a fire feature, brick pavers and a roof extension.

Eastern Henrico Project

Glen Allen Grounds Management, LLC

Residential Firepit & Seating Wall
Design ideas for a small transitional backyard patio in Richmond with a fire feature, brick pavers and no cover.

Custom Backyard

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.

West London Courtyard

Karen Rogers at KR Garden Design

Walpole Garden, Chiswick Photography by Caroline Mardon - www.carolinemardon.com
Small traditional courtyard patio in London with brick pavers.

Waterview - River Valley

Parkinson Building Group

French Country home built by Parkinson Building Group in the Waterview subdivision and featured on the cover of the Fall/Winter 2014 issue of Country French Magazine

Patio Design Ideas with Gravel 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!