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

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.

Del Mar Exterior Renovation

SJS Studios Inc.

Bluestone Pavers, custom Teak Wood banquette with cement tile inlay, Bluestone firepit, custom outdoor kitchen with Teak Wood, concrete waterfall countertop with Teak surround.

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

Inside Out

Ketron Custom Builders

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

Porch

Norris Architecture

Overlooking the lake and with rollaway screens
Design ideas for a country backyard patio in Austin with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

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.

Little Horn Residence

AquaTerra Outdoors

This gourmet kitchen includes wood burning pizza oven, grill, side burner, egg smoker, sink, refrigerator, trash chute, serving station and more! Photography: Daniel Driensky

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.

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.

Lancaster area paver patios

Cobblestone Landscape LLC

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Philadelphia with natural stone pavers and no cover.

Patio Design Ideas with Gravel 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!