Cathers Home Furniture + Interior Design

Mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Denver with concrete pavers and no cover.

Atlantic Beach Contemporary Compact Backyard

Small spaces can provide big challenges. These homeowners wanted to include a lot in their tiny backyard! There were also numerous city restrictions to comply with, and elevations to contend with. The design includes several seating areas, a fire feature that can be seen from the home's front entry, a water wall, and retractable screens. This was a "design only" project. Installation was coordinated by the homeowner and completed by others. Photos copyright Cascade Outdoor Design, LLC

Palmerston Lake Cottage

Bell+Associates Architecture Inc.

Front Porch Photography
Photo of a large country backyard patio in Ottawa with natural stone pavers and no cover.

Walk-Out Patio with Two-Way Fireplace | Patios

Southview Design

This walk-out patio shares a two-way fireplace with the living room, now that's indoor-outdoor living.
This is an example of a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Minneapolis with with fireplace, concrete pavers and no cover.

Weekend In The Country

Louis Fusco Landscape Architects

Out door Entertainment Area
Photo of a mid-sized country backyard patio in New York with natural stone pavers and no cover.

Showcase - Backyard Retreat

Sisson Landscapes

Sisson Landscapes
Mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in DC Metro with a water feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Maruccia Residence

Promise Path Landscaping Inc

Small backyard with lots of potential. We created the perfect space adding visual interest from inside the house to outside of it. We added a BBQ Island with Grill, sink, and plenty of counter space. BBQ Island was cover with stone veneer stone with a concrete counter top. Opposite side we match the veneer stone and concrete cap on a newly Outdoor fireplace. far side we added some post with bright colors and drought tolerant material and a special touch for the little girl in the family, since we did not wanted to forget about anyone. Photography by Zack Benson

Outdoor Fire Pit with Concrete/Grass Pavers

California Landscape Construction

We created a custom paver design and included a gas fire pit.
Mid-sized modern backyard patio in Orange County with a fire feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Lemont Landscaping

KD Landscape

The distinct spaces can be seen from this overhead view. The dining space is separated from the social space by three large containers on one side and from the fire pit by a low profile planting bed on the other side. A small grill with counter is conveniently located near the three season room. Landscape design by John Algozzini. Photo courtesy of Mike Crews Photography.

Cumberland Lakeside Patio

Fiano Landscapes

Like every property on the lake, this one had a steep slope immediately out of the back door. So we hugged the patio close to the house, building it up with a small retaining wall, and providing plenty of space to enjoy a summer night by the fire!

Rustic Landscape

Outdoor Dreams

Photo of a mid-sized country backyard patio in Richmond with a fire feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Lakeside Patio

Landscapes by Tom LLC

A level area for the picnic table was made next to the beach.
Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Boston with a water feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Outdoor kitchen in Stockport, Cheshire

Grillo Outdoor Kitchens

One of our all-time favourite projects, this spacious L-shape project in Stockport, Cheshire is destined to be the envy of every friend, neighbour and guest that sets eyes on this garden. The kitchen blends in beautifully with the surrounding landscaping and lighting schemes, constructed by Creative Gardens & Driveways. The bar table and stool seating with the beautiful ‘Habitat’ design feature faces the rest of the beautifully landscaped gardens. The Millboard feature walls tie the design in with other zones in the garden. With a Gas BBQ for convenience and a Gusto Charcoal BBQ for that smoky style, this kitchen is every social Chef’s dream.

Stark Punk

Colossus Mfg.

Custom design and hand painted geometric mural on refurbished carport turned dining area, with recessed lighting, and a light wood outdoor dining table and chairs.

West Seattle Mid-Century

Board & Vellum

Photos by Tina Witherspoon.
This is an example of a small midcentury backyard patio in Seattle with concrete pavers, no cover and a fire feature.

Wingzor

NORTHBOURNE Architecture + Design

Tess Kelly
Inspiration for a contemporary patio in Melbourne with no cover.

Small Backyard Transformation

Exscape Designs

Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Cleveland with a fire feature, gravel and no cover.

Leawood Patios Deck & Wall

Creative Outdoor Spaces

Expanded concrete patio off the existing deck eliminated the muddy areas in the major circulation paths. The stone stairs lead up to the level backyard created by the new retaining walls.

Backyard Retreat with Fire Pit

Mountain Road Landscaping

Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Philadelphia with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Full renovation project in Los Angeles. Mulholland/Laural

Eden Builders

Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Los Angeles with a fire feature, concrete slab and no cover.

Patio Design Ideas with No Cover

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!