We converted an underused back yard into a modern outdoor living space. A bright tiled planter anchors an otherwise neutral space. The decking is ipe hardwood, the fence is stained cedar, and cast concrete with gravel adds texture at the fire pit. Photos copyright Laurie Black Photography.

House extension in Barnes

Square One Architects

The small rear patio is related to the internal spaces thus maximizing the sense of space. The wooden bench has been designed to conceal a practical low storage unit.

Contemporary wide and narrow makeover

Land Studio C

Land Studio C
This is an example of a small contemporary backyard patio in San Francisco with an outdoor kitchen and concrete slab.

Sonoma in the City

dSPACE Studio Ltd, AIA

Back deck opens out to the side; stone pavers frame a sunken rectangular pool. Tony Soluri Photography
This is an example of a small contemporary side yard patio in Chicago with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

West Village Backyard Garden

Staghorn NYC

Landscape design and installation of this small backyard garden in the West Village neighborhood of NYC. Herringbone brick patio with custom horizontal ipe fencing, built in planter, and veneering. Low maintenance plantings and low voltage lighting finish off this modern backyard.

Malvern Courtyard

Formation Landscapes Pty Ltd

Dylan Lark
Small contemporary backyard patio in Melbourne with tile and no cover.

WATERSIDE HOME, EMSWORTH, HAMPSHIRE

Emma Painter Interiors

Chris Snook and Emma Painter Interiors
This is an example of a small transitional side yard patio in Sussex with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

New Urban Garden

SED Design

This is an example of a small contemporary backyard patio in Philadelphia with a water feature, brick pavers and a pergola.

Outdoor Bar and Grill

DeGoey Designs

Small contemporary patio in Other.

Resort Rental Apartment I

Belle Decor & Design

Photo of a small transitional backyard patio in Orlando with concrete slab and a roof extension.

Urban Frenzy

KD Landscape

The loveseat and pergola provide a shady resting spot behind the garage in this city garden.
Design ideas for a small tropical backyard patio in Chicago with a container garden, brick pavers and a pergola.

Contemporary Toronto backyard space

Elite Pool Design

Contemporary backyard space includes and in ground spa, fire feature, water feature, gardens and outdoor living space. Designed and built exclusively by Elite Pool Design.

Kalorama Contemporary

Horn & Co. (Previously JHLA)

Design ideas for a small asian backyard patio in DC Metro with a water feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

The view from inside which leads directly out onto the garden

Georgia Lindsay Garden Design

The bifold doors open directly onto this seating area creating a seamless flow from interior to exterior. Photographed by Nathalie Priem
Inspiration for a small contemporary front yard patio in London.

Santa Monica Remodel

Design Intervention

Deck before remodel
Small transitional side yard patio in Orange County with an outdoor kitchen, decking and an awning.

Bluestone Patio New Lenox

KD Landscape

As they walk out the front door this is the colorful view that greets the client.
Small contemporary front yard patio in Chicago with a container garden, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Backyard Sauna and Shower

Alex Crook Photography

Photo by Alex Crook https://www.alexcrook.com/ Design by Judson Sullivan http://www.cultivarllc.com/

Stone Steps and Stoop in Warwick NY

User

A set of brick and bluestone steps and landing that lead to the mudroom of this Warwick NY residence. The treads are constructed with a 2" thick rock faced bluestone. I used a custom color blended mortar for the brick joints, slightly rcessed. Below is a detail of the walkway. It is constructed with a weathered clay brick, bluestone borders and randomly placed bluestone inlays. The set of stps are softed with Rhododendron. We service the NY & NJ areas. http://www.summersetgardens.com/ 845-590-7306

Bluestone Patio and Steps with Wrought Iron Railings

Toolbox Construction Inc.

Bluestone patio with wrought iron railings.
This is an example of a small traditional backyard patio in New York.

Intimate Patio Retreat

Rooftopia, LLC

This small backyard landscape sandwiched between home and garage, was transformed from a drab weed patch into a stunning outdoor breakfast nook! Porcelain patio pavers were carefully installed for improved drainage to move water away from the home. A new cedar fence was installed between neighboring lots. A custom cedar trellis was installed over the garage facade, to draw attention away from the garage siding, framing windows and foliage. Pretty white planters, large hydrangea blooms, crisp lime green hostas and purple pansies add color and brightness to this shaded retreat. LED lighting and irrigation systems were also integrated into the landscape.

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!