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

Glencoe French Chateau - Formal Pool and Landscape

French Inspired Pool and Landscape by Marco Romani, RLA - Landscape Architect. Design and Construction of Entire Property by: Arrow
This is an example of a traditional backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

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.

Built-In BBQ Grill Surround

Elan Landscape Development Inc.

Limestone Grill Surround and Peninsula with Rock Faced Bluestone Counter Top, Cedar Pergola and DCS 48" Grill. Dan Wells Elan Landscape Development Inc.

Olivenhain - Remodel

ProPacific Builders, Inc.

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

Small outdoor room with a green wall in Kensington

The Garden Builders

Pro Colour Photography
Inspiration for a small contemporary backyard patio in London with a vertical garden and natural stone pavers.

Mid Century Courtyard Remodel

SCJ Studio Landscape Architecture

Already partially enclosed by an ipe fence and concrete wall, our client had a vision of an outdoor courtyard for entertaining on warm summer evenings since the space would be shaded by the house in the afternoon. He imagined the space with a water feature, lighting and paving surrounded by plants. With our marching orders in place, we drew up a schematic plan quickly and met to review two options for the space. These options quickly coalesced and combined into a single vision for the space. A thick, 60” tall concrete wall would enclose the opening to the street – creating privacy and security, and making a bold statement. We knew the gate had to be interesting enough to stand up to the large concrete walls on either side, so we designed and had custom fabricated by Dennis Schleder (www.dennisschleder.com) a beautiful, visually dynamic metal gate. The gate has become the icing on the cake, all 300 pounds of it! Other touches include drought tolerant planting, bluestone paving with pebble accents, crushed granite paving, LED accent lighting, and outdoor furniture. Both existing trees were retained and are thriving with their new soil. The garden was installed in December and our client is extremely happy with the results – so are we! Photo credits, Coreen Schmidt

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.

Traditional French Country - Glenview

Scott Simpson Design + Build

Cocktail pool with tanning ledge on one side and hot tub at the other, an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, man-made stream and detached pergola can all be reached from walk-outs off the first-floor primary bedroom, the family room or the sunroom

West Coast English Retreat

Tierra Madre Fine Gardens

Contemporary backyard patio in Other with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Telluride Cabin

Artisan Builders LLC

Inspiration for an expansive country backyard patio in Denver with natural stone pavers, no cover and a fire feature.

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.

Fire Features

Nansemond Precast Concrete

Traditional Style Fire Feature - the Prescott Fire Pit - using Techo-Bloc's Prescott wall & Piedimonte cap.
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Other with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Pergola

Haver & Skolnick LLC Architects

The carved cedar pergola provides a shady spot for outdoor dining. Robert Benson Photography
Expansive traditional backyard patio in New York with natural stone pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

My Houzz: Chic Boho Style for a Hawaii Apartment

Ashley Camper Photography

Photo: Ashley Camper © 2013 Houzz
This is an example of a traditional patio in Hawaii with natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Patio

ODS Architecture

In the evening the garden walls are dramatically lit and the low planting wall transitions into a stone plinth for a soothing stone fountain. Photo Credit: J. Michael Tucker

Issaquah Highlands

Alderwood Landscape Architecture and Construction

Backyard Landscaping with patio, firepit, playground, water feature and more
This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Seattle with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Fire Pit

Hursthouse Landscape Architects and Contractors

Photo of a large arts and crafts backyard patio in Chicago with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

French Formal

Elevate Outdoor

Inspiration for a courtyard patio in St Louis with an outdoor kitchen and natural stone pavers.

Fallen Leaves

Arbordale Landscaping

Stepping stones in a minimal gravel paved area lead past two lounge chairs to the intimate dining area. The herringbone-patterned limestone patio dissipates into a lush planting bed filled with loose swaths of shade-loving perennials and seasonal bulbs. Beech hedging, and formal clipped evergreens, surround the space and provide privacy, structure and winter interest to the garden. On axis to the main interior living space of the home, the fountain, is the focal point of the garden. A limestone water wall featuring an engraved pattern of fallen Honey Locust leaves nods to the centrally located mature Honey Locust tree that anchors the garden. Water, flowing down the wall, falls a short distance into a pool with a submerged limestone panel. The light noise of the falling water helps soften the sounds of the bustling downtown neighbourhood, creating a tranquil back drop for living and entertaining.

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!