This is an example of a mediterranean patio in Geelong with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Design ideas for a large contemporary backyard patio in Melbourne with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Custom Pergolas

Broward Landscape, Inc.

Pergola, Outdoor Kitchen Ivory Travertine
Inspiration for an expansive modern backyard patio in Miami with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Outdoor Pizza Oven

Krugel Cobbles, Inc.

All photos by Linda Oyama Bryan. Home restoration by Von Dreele-Freerksen Construction
Mid-sized arts and crafts backyard patio in Chicago with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Contemporary Patio

Design ideas for a small contemporary backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

For JTW Design

Alexis Courtney Photography

Design ideas for a transitional backyard patio in Richmond with natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Outdoor kitchen and Fireplace

DabneyCollins

General Fireplace dimensions: 17'-4"H x 10'-6"W x 4'D Fireplace material: Tennessee Field Stone cut to an ashlar pattern with Granite Hearth and Mantel Kitchen dimensions: 5'4" in-between the columns, then around 12.75' along the back Structure paint color is Pittsburgh Paints Sun Proof Exterior "Monterrey Grey" Roof material: Standing seam copper Terrace material: Full color Pennsylvania Bluestone veneer on a concrete slab

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

Pergola

KD Landscape

Sleek, black and just right for the space, this contemporary pergola provides just the right amount of shade in this Chicago back yard. The 2"x2" purlins on top of the pergola are repeated as a screen for the back to 'take the edge off' the neighbors garage. Bluestone paving, a large fire pit and traditional zinc planters help complete the design thought.

Brookhaven Plunge Pool & Outdoor Living Oasis

Boyce Design + Build

This contemporary backyard oasis offers our clients indoor-outdoor living for year-round relaxation and entertaining. The custom rectilinear swimming pool and stacked stone raised spa were designed to maximize the tight lot coverage restrictions while the cascading waterfalls and natural stone water feature add tranquility to the space. Panoramic doors create a beautiful transition between the interior and exterior spaces allowing for more entertaining options and increased natural light. The covered porch features retractable screens, ceiling-mounted infrared heaters, T&G ceiling and a stacked stone fireplace

Outdoor Kitchen, dining area and firepit

Ispiri Design-Build

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.

Livingston Oasis, Livingston NJ

Clear Home Design

what a place to throw a party! this is the back loggia with it's wood covered ceiling and slate covered floor and fireplace. the restoration hardware sectional and drapes warm the space and give it a grand living room vibe.

Residential Projects

Van Putte Landscape

The outdoor fireplace and patio make a beautiful focal point in this exquisite backyard landscape renovation. Installed by Van Putte Landscape. - Photo Credit - Chipper Hatter.

Seneca Lake Home Remodel

Cutri Construction

Outdoor kitchen/bar adjacent to infinity pool and lanai, overlooking the lake. Photo by Don Cochran
Photo of a large transitional backyard patio in New York with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Coatesville Design Build

Bonner Landscape Contractors

TrueVine Photography
Mid-sized modern backyard patio in Philadelphia with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Mas typiquement provençal

MAS PROVENCE

Jean-Baptiste BIEUVILLE
Design ideas for a mediterranean front yard patio in Marseille with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Patios

Kona Land And Water Escape

Design ideas for a large tropical backyard patio in Phoenix with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Scotts Valley Residence

SSA Landscape Architects

John Benson Photography
Large mediterranean backyard patio in San Francisco with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Recent Work

EJ Interior Design, Inc.

Eric Rorer
This is an example of a transitional backyard patio in San Francisco with natural stone pavers, a pergola and with fireplace.

Backyard built for relaxing

Laura Frost; Home and Garden Designer

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in San Francisco with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

All Covers Patio Design Ideas with Natural Stone 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!