This is an example of a large contemporary backyard patio in Perth with an outdoor kitchen, concrete slab and a roof extension.

Fairfield Courtyard House

Taylor Knights

Outdoor dining area
This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary courtyard patio in Melbourne with concrete slab and a roof extension.

Bells Interior Styling

Kennedy and Co Interiors

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

Brighton: Renovation & Extension

First Avenue Homes

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

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.

Rockland Additions

Archer & Buchanan Architecture, Ltd.

Photographer: Angle Eye Photography
Traditional patio in Philadelphia with a roof extension and natural stone pavers.

Fire Pit

Conklin Limestone

A perfect addition to your outdoor living is a seating wall surrounding a firepit. Cambridge Maytrx wall, Pyzique Fire Pit, Round table Pavers. Installed by Natural Green Landsacpe & Design in Lincoln, RI

Sammamish Outdoor Living and Backyard Makeover

Urban Oasis Design & Construction LLC

Photo of a large transitional backyard patio in Seattle with a fire feature, concrete slab and no cover.

Fire Features

Johns Building Supply

Traditional Style Fire Feature - Techo-Bloc's Valencia Fire Pit.
Inspiration for a large traditional backyard patio in Boston with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Backyard Bungalow

SURROUNDS Landscape Architecture + Construction

Morgan Howarth Photography, Surrounds Inc.
This is an example of a traditional backyard patio in DC Metro with natural stone pavers.

Kalorama Contemporary

Horn & Co. (Previously JHLA)

Our clients on this project were inspired by their travels to Asia and wanted to mimic this aesthetic at their DC property. We designed a water feature that effectively masks adjacent traffic noise and maintains a small footprint.

Portfolio

Edmunds Studios Photography, Inc.

Design: modernedgedesign.com Photo: Edmunds Studios Photography
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Milwaukee with a fire feature, a pergola and concrete slab.

West Coast English Retreat

Tierra Madre Fine Gardens

Photo by Samantha Robison
Design ideas for a small transitional backyard patio in Other with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

4th Street Townhouse, Park Slope

Harper Design Build

This is an example of a small contemporary backyard patio in New York with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Hidden Lake

Arcanum Architecture

Design ideas for a large country backyard patio in Sacramento with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Mustang Park, Carrollton

AquaTerra Outdoors

AquaTerra Outdoors was hired to bring life to the outdoors of the new home. When it came time to design the space we were challenged with the tight space of the backyard. We worked through the concepts and we were able to incorporate a new pool with spa, custom water feature wall, Ipe wood deck, outdoor kitchen, custom steel and Ipe wood shade arbor and fire pit. We also designed and installed all the landscaping including the custom steel planter. Photography: Wade Griffith

Concrete Paved Patio

DSTscaping and RLC Construction

Design ideas for a large contemporary backyard patio in San Francisco with a fire feature, concrete slab and no cover.

Fulham 1, London

Richmond Bell Architects Ltd

Inspiration for a small contemporary backyard patio in Wiltshire with a fire feature and natural stone pavers.

Outdoor Grill Stations and Kitchens

LandCrafters, LLC

A large ProFire gas grill along with trash pull out is integrated within this masonry grill station. The grill station is surrounded with recovered Cream City bricks and topped with cut bluestone coping. A cedar arbor is integrated and makes an ideal location to hang two custom, high voltage electric lanterns.

Fire Features

Johns Building Supply

Traditional Style Fire Feature - the Prescott Fire Pit - using Techo-Bloc's Prescott wall & Piedimonte cap.
Design ideas for a large traditional backyard patio in Boston with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Patio Design Ideas with Concrete Slab and 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!