To create a colonial outdoor living space, we gut renovated this patio, incorporating heated bluestones, a custom traditional fireplace and bespoke furniture. The space was divided into three distinct zones for cooking, dining, and lounging. Firing up the built-in gas grill or a relaxing by the fireplace, this space brings the inside out.

Pine Lake - Private Lakeside Wisconsin Resort Home

Vetter Architects

The owners requested a Private Resort that catered to their love for entertaining friends and family, a place where 2 people would feel just as comfortable as 42. Located on the western edge of a Wisconsin lake, the site provides a range of natural ecosystems from forest to prairie to water, allowing the building to have a more complex relationship with the lake - not merely creating large unencumbered views in that direction. The gently sloping site to the lake is atypical in many ways to most lakeside lots - as its main trajectory is not directly to the lake views - allowing for focus to be pushed in other directions such as a courtyard and into a nearby forest. The biggest challenge was accommodating the large scale gathering spaces, while not overwhelming the natural setting with a single massive structure. Our solution was found in breaking down the scale of the project into digestible pieces and organizing them in a Camp-like collection of elements: - Main Lodge: Providing the proper entry to the Camp and a Mess Hall - Bunk House: A communal sleeping area and social space. - Party Barn: An entertainment facility that opens directly on to a swimming pool & outdoor room. - Guest Cottages: A series of smaller guest quarters. - Private Quarters: The owners private space that directly links to the Main Lodge. These elements are joined by a series green roof connectors, that merge with the landscape and allow the out buildings to retain their own identity. This Camp feel was further magnified through the materiality - specifically the use of Doug Fir, creating a modern Northwoods setting that is warm and inviting. The use of local limestone and poured concrete walls ground the buildings to the sloping site and serve as a cradle for the wood volumes that rest gently on them. The connections between these materials provided an opportunity to add a delicate reading to the spaces and re-enforce the camp aesthetic. The oscillation between large communal spaces and private, intimate zones is explored on the interior and in the outdoor rooms. From the large courtyard to the private balcony - accommodating a variety of opportunities to engage the landscape was at the heart of the concept. Overview Chenequa, WI Size Total Finished Area: 9,543 sf Completion Date May 2013 Services Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design

The Truckee, CA Project (Firepit + Seating + Patios + Outdoor Art)

JTA Stoneworks LLC

Mid-sized contemporary side yard patio in Other with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Complete Property Makeover

Down2Earth Landscape Design

Retaining wall for sloped backyard to allow for better drainage
This is an example of a country side yard patio in Toronto with concrete pavers.

Elegant Home

LDB HOMES LLC

Side Patio with Solid Wood construction.
Inspiration for a small midcentury side yard patio in Seattle with an awning.

The Breathing Wall Residence

LIJO.RENY.architects

Photo of a mid-sized contemporary side yard patio in Other with concrete pavers.

Lot 40

Marmiro Stones, Inc

Deep Blue® sandblasted pavers create a relaxing side patio for the family to gather and enjoy each other's company. The natural whites and gray of the stone compliment the natural elements of the area, as well as the multi-color outdoor fireplace.

Outdoor Kitchens by Challenger Designs, LLC

Challenger Designs

Inspiration for a traditional side yard patio in Other with an outdoor kitchen, stamped concrete and no cover.

Oakland CA Full Outdoor Living Remodel

System Pavers

Complete outdoor living remodel including: front yard, side walkway, backyard, patio and driveway.
This is an example of a side yard patio in San Francisco with concrete pavers and a pergola.

Backyard Getaways

Terra Bella

Small side yard patio in San Francisco with a container garden, natural stone pavers and no cover.

New Project 3

Gaia Gardens

Inspiration for a mid-sized traditional side yard patio in New York with natural stone pavers and no cover.

Our Work

Deborah Shaw Restoration + Landscape, Inc.

This is an example of a large modern side yard patio in Santa Barbara with tile and no cover.

The Solisysteme Bioclimatic Pergola- Residential

PergolaHaus

Photo of a large modern side yard patio in New York with decking and a pergola.

Small space landscape design

Bevins & Company Landscape/Design

Design ideas for a mid-sized arts and crafts side yard patio in Louisville with a water feature and brick pavers.

Small Patio

Landscape By Design

Design ideas for a small transitional side yard patio in Dallas with a fire feature, concrete pavers and an awning.

Northern Dutchess Farm

Structure Works Construction Inc.

rob karosis
Inspiration for a mid-sized country side yard patio in New York with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Gazebo & Custom Screen

Benchmark Building Services Inc.

Gazebo, Decks and Patios
This is an example of a small traditional side yard patio in Toronto with a vertical garden, decking and a gazebo/cabana.

Whatley new custom home

TLC Design/Build LLC

Jean Allsopp
This is an example of a mid-sized traditional side yard patio in Birmingham with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Outdoor Seating

Arroyo Seco Construction

Keith Bartlett
Photo of a mid-sized side yard patio in Santa Barbara with gravel.

Porches

Collins Construction Group, Inc

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional side yard patio in Chicago with concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Side Yard 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!