Shabby-Chic Style Patio Design Ideas with a Water Feature

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

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.

Rancho Santa Fe

Soucie Horner, Ltd.

Design ideas for a traditional front yard patio in Chicago with a water feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Ackerly Summer Home

Heiberg Cummings Design

Inspiration for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in New York with a water feature, gravel and no cover.

Courtyard

Fratantoni Luxury Estates Design/Build/Remodeling

We love this courtyard's exterior fireplace, fountain, pergolas, and the custom sitting area.
Inspiration for an expansive traditional courtyard patio in Phoenix with a water feature, tile and no cover.

Entry Courtyard

Fratantoni Design / Residential Architects

We can't get enough of exterior fireplaces like this one! We definitely approve of the latticework and custom patio.
Inspiration for an expansive traditional front yard patio in Phoenix with a water feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Outdoor Living Space

Decorating Den Interiors - Joyce's Team

Inspiration for a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Charleston with a water feature and natural stone pavers.

Grand Homes by Fratantoni Interior Designers!

Fratantoni Interior Designers

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

Extravagance on the River

Baine Contracting, Inc.

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

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.

Extravagance on the River

Baine Contracting, Inc.

Water feature beautifully completes this outdoor living space.
Inspiration for a large traditional backyard patio in New York with a water feature, brick pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Extravagance on the River

Baine Contracting, Inc.

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

Extravagance on the River

Baine Contracting, Inc.

Water feature beautifully completes this outdoor living space.
Photo of a large traditional backyard patio in New York with a water feature, brick pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Extravagance on the River

Baine Contracting, Inc.

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

Ackerly Summer Home

Heiberg Cummings Design

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in New York with a water feature, gravel and no cover.

Rancho Santa Fe

Soucie Horner, Ltd.

Design ideas for a traditional front yard patio in Chicago with a water feature, stamped concrete and no cover.

Extravagance on the River

Baine Contracting, Inc.

Water feature beautifully completes this outdoor living space.
This is an example of a large traditional backyard patio in New York with a water feature, brick pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Extravagance on the River

Baine Contracting, Inc.

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

Extravagance on the River

Baine Contracting, Inc.

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

Extravagance on the River

Baine Contracting, Inc.

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

Shabby-Chic Style Patio Design Ideas with a Water Feature

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!