We converted an underused back yard into a modern outdoor living space. The decking is ipe hardwood, the fence is stained cedar, and a stained concrete fountain adds privacy and atmosphere at the dining area. Photos copyright Laurie Black Photography.

Modern Small Orinda Garden

Garden Lights Landscape and Pool Development Inc.

This is an example of a small modern front yard patio in San Francisco with concrete slab.

Basalt Column Fountain

Eileen G Designs

Small transitional patio in Miami with a water feature and natural stone pavers.

Dallas Small Yard - Spectacular Pool/Fountain

Mike Farley Pool Designer, SWD, ASLA

Dallas Small Yard - Spectacular Fountain/Pool. This one of a kind fountain blends with this traditional home and is inspired by Italy's Villa D' Este Walk of 100 Fountains. To create a lush garden feel and still have lots of room for gatherings generally is a challenge but we were able to strike the right balance. The center fountain provides a focal point from the home. The brick patterns and color was an exact match to the home brick details and was carried to the brick surround of the fountain sconces. Also, the center water feature provides some seating with the raised basin and tied in with the raised planters which created maximum privacy with the plantings. The lower basin provided a wrap around feature to enjoy throughout the space and lengthen the line of sight. Black Granite was used inside the feature for more reflection and contrast. Lush plantings, pots, a living green wall and the synthetic grass create a definite garden feel, but still allow plenty of space to entertain all day or all night under the string lights. So come on over and enjoy this small but sensational backyard. FarleyPoolDesigns.com

Architect's Mid-Century Landscape

Land2c Landscape Architecture

Enlarged view patio with softened dark fencing, colorful planting, pot fountain, and umbrella table for dining. Landscaped for all season enjoyment.

Cauthen Family | Hot Spring Spa

Richard's Total Backyard Solutions

Check out this gorgeous custom wrapped Hot Spring Spas for the Cauthen Family in Fulshear. This is a Hot Spring Spas® Grandee with the Freshwater Salt System and cover lifter.

2019 Pasadena Showcase House of Design

Pacific Outdoor Living

Patio with outdoor furniture with pondless waterfall, fountains and drought tolerant landscaping
This is an example of a small modern backyard patio in Los Angeles with a water feature, concrete pavers and no cover.

Parade of Homes 2019

Modern Landscape

This gorgeous custom outdoor water feature was featured in the 2019 Parade of Homes. With a poured concrete base, this fountain is completely self-contained, so you can enjoy the soothing sound of bubbling water without the maintenance of a pond.

Harvest

Pure Design

Challenge: With a narrow yard steeply sloped from house to alley, what was even possible? Solved: We created a seamless execution that blends indoor out and outdoor living with a masterfully executed interplay of materials and applications, shared and secluded spaces, the expected and unexpected. This puzzle-pieced tour de force of landscape architecture design, features multiple pools, waterfall curtains that magically appear from walls, and every accommodation for gracious entertaining and family life. Anyone who had seen the “before,” marvels at the “after” in disbelief.

Modernist Courtyard

terraneo landscape design

Small spaces can be even harder to design for. Balance between hard and soft elements is super important and more green is better than not enough. Every plant here is in a pot or a planter that have become features themselves.

East Fremantle

Mondo Landscapes

This space is effectively one giant pool zone. The geometric infinity edge pool/spa combination were designed with its relation and interaction with the home.Visually offering an urban resort style ambience. A range of high quality materials and finishes were incorporated throughout. All elements throughout the property were given detailed attention; boundary walls, raised planters, pool/spa, pool fencing and pool tiling. Composite timber was used on the pool/spa deck for ease of maintenance. The boundary wall is charcoal aluminium slats which offer a great foil for the planting. A bespoke fire pit area was designed looking out to the pool. Lighting was a major inclusion in this design. Entertaining a large number of family and friends is a regular way of life for this family. Therefore the relationship and functionality of the alfresco became paramount importance in the landscape design process. Plants have been selected for their form, texture and size when maturity is reached. Plants provide living statements and soften the edges. Offering a lush green backdrop to the greys and charcoal palette of this project.

Brooklyn Backyard fit for a Fiesta

Brooklinteriors

Brooklyn backyard patio design in Prospect Heights for a young, professional couple who loves to both entertain and relax! This space includes a West Elm outdoor sectional and round concrete outdoor coffee table.

Outdoor Fireplace

Armstrong's Stove & Spa Yakima

Photo of a small traditional backyard patio in Seattle with with fireplace, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Ballard Patio Oasis

Orion Rockscapes

Design ideas for a small midcentury backyard patio in Seattle with concrete pavers and no cover.

High Spa and Outdoor Living Room

Wi-Design Landscape Architecture, LLC

View across the infinity edge spillway with the covered living room beyond with a fire place , bar, grill and TV
Photo of a small contemporary backyard patio in New York with natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

East Hampton House- exterior barbeque and pool area

Marjorie Goldberg AIA Architect

Built in barbeque porcelain pavers, revegetated border, gunite pool with set-in spa.. Liz Glasgow photographer
Photo of a small modern patio in New York.

Avila Modern Farmhouse

STUDIO PRIME ARCHITECTURE (SP-ARC)

private patio retreat
Photo of a small country backyard patio in San Luis Obispo with an outdoor shower, concrete slab and a roof extension.

Rockridge Redux - Extending an Elegant Home Outdoors

Ian Moore Design

The hot tub patio is designed to provide flexible furnishing options. When open or unfurnished the ground plane details and lighting bring the space alive. This area can also accommodate chaise lounge chairs or larger dining assemblies. The plantings envelop and calm the space.

LED Lighting

LandCrafters, LLC

Small transitional side yard patio in Milwaukee with brick pavers and a pergola.

modern beach cottage / lantern village, dana point

Moss Yaw Design studio

lounge seating, a large farm table and string lighting make for a variety of seating options- and a rear gathering space that is both inviting and private

Small 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!