When visitors pass through the gate into the forecourt, they experience another array of cantilevered cast concrete steps that “float” up to the front door. Bianchi, a Phoenix based pool and landscape designer, set this rhythmic path to echo the lines and ascending forms of the architects dramatic rusted-steel entry pergola. As part of his Pool and landscape design, Bianchi set a trapezoidal corten reflection pool that doubles as a room divider, channeling visitors for several paces along the entry path by reaching out from the courtyard wall near the gate before allowing them access to the forecourt’s lounging area. An multi arm yucca serves as the sculptural focal point from this perspective, making a serene impression with its form mirrored in the shimmering water of the vanishing edge fountain. Water flows over the corten rusted-steel edges of this courtyard waterfeature and down into a small channel also filled with pebbles. This whole structure was set to finish flush with only a half-inch gap between the water surface and a cast concrete seat wall that extends along the courtyard’s perimeter. The pool’s form is mirrored by a trapezoidal fire pit that sits in a snug corner of the space with a portal aperture just above that allows visitors to peer out at the desert scene beyond, and casting it's firelight out to incoming guests as a welcoming beacon of warmth. michaelwoodall.com

Courtyard makeover

ZMK Construction Inc

Bringing south of the boarder to the north of the boarder our Mexican Baja theme courtyard/living room makeover in Coronado Island is where our client have their entertainment now and enjoy the great San Diego weather daily. We've designed the courtyard to be a true outdoor living space with a full kitchen, dinning area, and a lounging area next to an outdoor fireplace. And best of all a fully engaged 15 feet pocket door system that opens the living room right out to the courtyard. A dream comes true for our client!

Earl Street

SK Design

Photo of a contemporary patio in Toronto.

Beverly Residence

SHM Architects

Inspiration for a transitional patio in Dallas.

Bocaire Country Club - Cassava Way

Ellish Builders

Photo of a contemporary patio in Miami with tile and a roof extension.

Project of the Month: February 2016

TCP Custom Outdoor Living

Gorgeous sitting area with a built-in Bromic Heater Photo credit: Click Photographer
Mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Dallas with natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Modern Residence

Taylor Lombardo Architects

Adrián Gregorutti
Photo of a contemporary courtyard patio in San Francisco with no cover, a fire feature and gravel.

Modern San Francisco Courtyard

Outdoor Environments

Design ideas for a contemporary patio in San Francisco.

Ranch Courtyard Home

Robinette Architects, Inc.

Photo of a contemporary patio in Phoenix.

The Szymski Family Wood Fired Brick Pizza Oven and Fireplace Combo in Arkansas

BrickWood Ovens

One of the Biggest DIY projects we've seen! An awesome combination of a Wood Fired Brick Pizza Oven & Fireplace.. with a pergola and outside shower.. To see more pictures of this oven (and many more ovens), please visit - BrickWoodOvens.com

Salt Bush

Crest Builders, Inc.

Photo of a country courtyard patio in Orange County with a water feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Spanish Villa

Fratantoni Design / Residential Architects

World Renowned Architecture Firm Fratantoni Design created this beautiful home! They design home plans for families all over the world in any size and style. They also have in-house Interior Designer Firm Fratantoni Interior Designers and world class Luxury Home Building Firm Fratantoni Luxury Estates! Hire one or all three companies to design and build and or remodel your home!

Cozy seating around fire pit in Houston covered patio

InnovationLand

A gabled roof extension serves as the patio cover of this large, Houston outdoor entertaining space. This outdoor design is rustic and cozy, with the warm, earthy tones of the wood ceiling, tile floor and exposed brick. The scrollwork of the Mission style lanterns also adds a Spanish Mission flavor. brickwww.outdoorhomescapes.com

Dramatic Southwestern

ECOterra Design Build

Photographer: Style Tours ABQ
This is an example of a mid-sized backyard patio in Albuquerque with concrete slab and a roof extension.

North Oaks - French Country Cottage Remodel

Michels Homes

Interior Design: Bruce Kading | Photography: Landmark Photography
Inspiration for a large backyard patio in Minneapolis with no cover, natural stone pavers and with fireplace.

Architectural View Gem

Prime Realty

Unique opportunity to live your best life in this architectural home. Ideally nestled at the end of a serene cul-de-sac and perfectly situated at the top of a knoll with sweeping mountain, treetop, and sunset views- some of the best in all of Westlake Village! Enter through the sleek mahogany glass door and feel the awe of the grand two story great room with wood-clad vaulted ceilings, dual-sided gas fireplace, custom windows w/motorized blinds, and gleaming hardwood floors. Enjoy luxurious amenities inside this organic flowing floorplan boasting a cozy den, dream kitchen, comfortable dining area, and a masterpiece entertainers yard. Lounge around in the high-end professionally designed outdoor spaces featuring: quality craftsmanship wood fencing, drought tolerant lush landscape and artificial grass, sleek modern hardscape with strategic landscape lighting, built in BBQ island w/ plenty of bar seating and Lynx Pro-Sear Rotisserie Grill, refrigerator, and custom storage, custom designed stone gas firepit, attached post & beam pergola ready for stargazing, cafe lights, and various calming water features—All working together to create a harmoniously serene outdoor living space while simultaneously enjoying 180' views! Lush grassy side yard w/ privacy hedges, playground space and room for a farm to table garden! Open concept luxe kitchen w/SS appliances incl Thermador gas cooktop/hood, Bosch dual ovens, Bosch dishwasher, built in smart microwave, garden casement window, customized maple cabinetry, updated Taj Mahal quartzite island with breakfast bar, and the quintessential built-in coffee/bar station with appliance storage! One bedroom and full bath downstairs with stone flooring and counter. Three upstairs bedrooms, an office/gym, and massive bonus room (with potential for separate living quarters). The two generously sized bedrooms with ample storage and views have access to a fully upgraded sumptuous designer bathroom! The gym/office boasts glass French doors, wood-clad vaulted ceiling + treetop views. The permitted bonus room is a rare unique find and has potential for possible separate living quarters. Bonus Room has a separate entrance with a private staircase, awe-inspiring picture windows, wood-clad ceilings, surround-sound speakers, ceiling fans, wet bar w/fridge, granite counters, under-counter lights, and a built in window seat w/storage. Oversized master suite boasts gorgeous natural light, endless views, lounge area, his/hers walk-in closets, and a rustic spa-like master bath featuring a walk-in shower w/dual heads, frameless glass door + slate flooring. Maple dual sink vanity w/black granite, modern brushed nickel fixtures, sleek lighting, W/C! Ultra efficient laundry room with laundry shoot connecting from upstairs, SS sink, waterfall quartz counters, and built in desk for hobby or work + a picturesque casement window looking out to a private grassy area. Stay organized with the tastefully handcrafted mudroom bench, hooks, shelving and ample storage just off the direct 2 car garage! Nearby the Village Homes clubhouse, tennis & pickle ball courts, ample poolside lounge chairs, tables, and umbrellas, full-sized pool for free swimming and laps, an oversized children's pool perfect for entertaining the kids and guests, complete with lifeguards on duty and a wonderful place to meet your Village Homes neighbors. Nearby parks, schools, shops, hiking, lake, beaches, and more. Live an intentionally inspired life at 2228 Knollcrest — a sprawling architectural gem!

Casita

Benning Construction Inc

Design ideas for a transitional patio in Sacramento.

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.

Mediterraneo Patio

Mediterranean backyard patio in Other with concrete slab and a gazebo/cabana.

Salsa 6 Piece Seating Group

Drum Works Furniture

6 piece seating made from real recycled steel 55 gallon oil drums. Ships in 48 hours. Sunbrella Bravada Salsa indoor/outdoor upholstery, hidden storage, finished inside and out.

Red Patio Design Ideas

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!