This is an example of a traditional patio in New York with a roof extension and with fireplace.

Houzz Tour

Dee Campling

Small traditional patio in Gloucestershire with an awning.

Lane Cove Home by Lindfield Landscapes

Vergola NSW

Lane Cove redesign and build Hamptons Style cabana indoor outdoor living space! Intergrated Vergola louvred roof system. Huge transformation
This is an example of a mid-sized traditional patio in Sydney.

Little Eden

Aralia: Innovation in Landscape Design

his rural hertfordshire property plays host to a Grade II listed house and a separate period outbuilding which have both had various architectural additions over the century, resulting in the creation of a narrow, empty corridor; prompting the need for an external garden design. The challenge for Aralia in this herts garden design was to unify the two opposing buildings and overcome the difficulties posed by numerous access points, all in the space of a small courtyard of less than two hundred square meters. The clients request was to create a garden which blurred the strong geometry of the buildings through a curvilinear design, whilst incorporating multiple opportunities for seating to relax and unwind. The garden very much holds a traditional feel through the choice of materials and planting in order to be sympathetic towards the architecture, surrounding landscape and local aesthetic. Upon first entering the property, visitors are greeted by a pair of beautifully crafted Iroko gates, framed by two heritage brick planters which house a lush beech hedge, concealing elements of the journey ahead. Three sizes of autumnal riven sandstone are used to negotiate the curves and create a subtle flow and legibility to the journey, whilst naturalistic perennials and grasses soften the space and create narrative. Plants such as Astrantia, Perovskia, Deschampsia and Echinacea are used throughout the borders to create rhythm and repetition whilst green Oak arches frame snippets of these views, anchoring the path between the buildings as the garden progresses. The culmination of the garden is signified by a circular terrace which is controlled and held in place by the beautifully weathered curved oak seats, housing cut logs underneath to create pattern and shape. Two small water chutes bubble away in the background creating a relaxing atmosphere whilst the user can sit and take advantage of tranquil views across the rest of the garden.

Extravagance on the River

Baine Contracting, Inc.

In ground pool over looks the river and out on the island.
Photo of an expansive traditional backyard patio in New York with a water feature, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Garden project

Fleur Ward Interior Design

Inspiration for a small traditional backyard patio in London with decking.

DIY French Poem Stenciled Outdoor Table

Janna Makaeva/Cutting Edge Stencils

Project by Shuggy's Place A DIY painted and stenciled outdoor table using the French Poem Allover Stencil, a script typography pattern. http://www.cuttingedgestencils.com/french-poem-typography-letter-stencil.html

Back Door Entry with Cut Stone Path

DC Design LLC

The path to the back door is shown. The air-conditioning unit is concealed with a short lattice fence. Note how the curves in the patio add a dynamic flow to the path.

Woodmont Wonder

Basin Pool Designs

Inspiration for a traditional patio in Nashville.

Shabby Chic Patio

Nicole Mene'

This is an example of a traditional patio in New York.

Outside Patio

Fiducia Home Builders and Design, Inc.

Photo of a traditional patio in Newark.

Sugar Sand

Inside Eye Design

Inspiration for a traditional patio in Tampa.

Old Library Upfit

GO Architectural Design, PLLC

Sarah Afflerbach
Photo of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Raleigh with a fire feature, brick pavers and a roof extension.

Hardscape Designs

Landmark Landscaping Inc

This is an example of a traditional patio in Baltimore.

2305 Ridgewood Drive, Plano, TX

Diana Clary-Keller Williams Boerne

Diana Clary
This is an example of a traditional backyard patio in Dallas with concrete pavers and no cover.

Montecito Cottage Outdoor Living Space

Duet Interior Design

This is an example of a traditional patio in Santa Barbara.

Fermob Outdoor from France: Louisiane

The Wooden Duck

Alex Thurston
Photo of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in San Francisco with no cover.

The Hollows

Northshore Homes

This is an example of a traditional patio in Austin.

Country Fleur

Teters Floral Products

Traditional patio in Dallas.

Color Contrasting Pavers

Mike Rose Landscape and Irrigation

Unilock pavers installed in Spring Lake. Look at the color contrast. We are a Unilock authorized contractor, so you receive a life time transferable warranty on your patio products.

Shabby-Chic Style Grey 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, shabby-chic style 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 shabby-chic style 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 shabby-chic style 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!