Existing mature pine trees canopy this outdoor living space. The homeowners had envisioned a space to relax with their large family and entertain by cooking and dining, cocktails or just a quiet time alone around the firepit. The large outdoor kitchen island and bar has more than ample storage space, cooking and prep areas, and dimmable pendant task lighting. The island, the dining area and the casual firepit lounge are all within conversation areas of each other. The overhead pergola creates just enough of a canopy to define the main focal point; the natural stone and Dekton finished outdoor island.

A Landscaper's Dream | Statement Fireplace

Southview Design

Incorporating the homeowners' love of hills, mountains, and water, this grand fireplace patio would be at home in a Colorado ski resort. The unique firebox border was created from Montana stone and evokes a mountain range. Large format Bluestone pavers bring the steely blue waters of Great Lakes and mountain streams into this unique backyard patio.

Outdoor Kitchen Project, Orchard House

Humphrey Munson

Hand-crafted using traditional joinery techniques, this outdoor kitchen is made from hard-wearing Iroko wood and finished with stainless steel hardware ensuring the longevity of this Markham cabinetry. With a classic contemporary design that suits the modern, manicured style of the country garden, this outdoor kitchen has the balance of simplicity, scale and proportion that H|M is known for. Using an L-shape configuration set within a custom designed permanent timber gazebo, this outdoor kitchen is cleverly zoned to include all of the key spaces required in an indoor kitchen for food prep, grilling and clearing away. On the right-hand side of the kitchen is the cooking run featuring the mighty 107cm Wolf outdoor gas grill. Already internationally established as an industrial heavyweight in the luxury range cooker market, Wolf have taken outdoor cooking to the next level with this behemoth of a barbeque. Designed and built to stand the test of time and exponentially more accurate than a standard barbeque, the Wolf outdoor gas grill also comes with a sear zone and infrared rotisserie spit as standard. To assist with food prep, positioned underneath the counter to the left of the Wolf outdoor grill is a pull-out bin with separate compartments for food waste and recycling. Additional storage to the right is utilised for storing the LPG gas canister ensuring the overall look and feel of the outdoor kitchen is free from clutter and from a practical point of view, protected from the elements. Just like the indoor kitchen, the key to a successful outdoor kitchen design is the zoning of the space – think about all the usual things like food prep, cooking and clearing away and make provision for those activities accordingly. In terms of the actual positioning of the kitchen think about the sun and where it is during the afternoons and early evening which will be the time this outdoor kitchen is most in use. A timber gazebo will provide shelter from the direct sunlight and protection from the elements during the winter months. Stone flooring that can withstand a few spills here and there is essential, and always incorporate a seating area than can be scaled up or down according to your entertaining needs. Photo Credit - Paul Craig

Bluestone Irving Park

KD Landscape

Pergola design by John Algozzini and Cara Buffa.
Design ideas for a small contemporary backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Hamptons meets Luxe Federation

Cordony Group

Mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Sydney with natural stone pavers, a container garden and a pergola.

Downers Grove Pergola & Bluestone Patio With Natural Stone Walls & Pillars

CMS Landscapes

Inspiration for a mid-sized arts and crafts backyard patio in Chicago with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Dallas ranch Outdoor remodel

NOMI - Luxury Bathroom Remodel

Dallas ranch outdoor remodel Custom made outdoor kitchen with stainless steel cabinets, pizza oven, grill and leather finish counter top
This is an example of a large contemporary backyard patio in Dallas with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Patio with Hardwood deck, verandah and sofa

Parmé Garden Design

Victoria Lee, The Moment Photography
Photo of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Cheshire with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Napa Getaway

Pedersen Associates

Large country backyard patio in San Francisco with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Traditional Patio

Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Chicago with natural stone pavers, a pergola and a fire feature.

Garden Gazebo

Prairie Home Improvement

Flagstone Patio w/ Pergola

GLC Lawn & Landscaping LLC

Photo of a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Detroit with a pergola, a vegetable garden and natural stone pavers.

Toro Canyon Tuscan Style Pool and Landscape | Santa Barbara CA

Natural Concepts Landscaping Contractors

Design | Tim Doles Landscape Design Photography | Kurt Jordan Photography
Inspiration for a mediterranean courtyard patio in Santa Barbara with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Outdoor Living

Georgio Home

Mid-sized traditional backyard patio in New York with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Patios

Browne and Associates Custom Landscapes

This Littleton back yard in the Ravenna development was designed in 2015 and constructed in 2016. As part of an extensive exterior remodel, we removed and re-installed the existing granite pavers and added a contrasting color paver. Our clients wanted a space that they could use for entertaining. As part of this design we included several "bench" walls that created extra seating when needed. Design: Ben Browne - Browne & Associates Custom Landscapes Photo: Ron Ruscio

Indian Field Outdoor

Luminosus Designs LLC

Photo of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in New York with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Backyard Retreat

Kingdom Home Builders

Inspiration for a large asian backyard patio in Cleveland with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Ashton Woods Model Home - Royal Brook

MB Land Design

Design ideas for a large traditional backyard patio in Houston with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Greenwich Patio and Outdoor Kitchen

Barbara Wilson Landscape Architect, LLC

Barbara worked with the owners of this large Greenwich estate to create an outdoor patio space to handle small intimate meals with the family while also allowing for larger gatherings and parties. Shade was provided by umbrellas until the custom pergola was completed. The pergola matched an existing structure at the other end of the swimming pool. A custom outdoor Kalamazoo kitchen was installed with a Hybrid barbeque, two refrigerators, outdoor sink, stainless steel cabinets and a pizza oven. Custom granite countertops were placed on the three independent units fitted in a U-shape at the end of the patio. A large lounging area is adjacent to the dining area which is located under the pergola and provides ready access to the pool, changing room and facilities in the house. The patio masonry work was completed by Gardens by Jeffrey Jones.

Outdoor Shower

Green River Design

The outdoor shower was designed to integrate into the stone veneer wall and be accessible from the Lower Level.
Photo of a large traditional backyard patio in Bridgeport with an outdoor shower, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Patio Design Ideas with Natural Stone Pavers and a Pergola

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!