Defined spaces enhance the sense of a unique experience in each area of the small scale landscape. In the corner of the backyard the stone firepit is a favorite gathering spot. Its modest size and circular shape allow for easy movement through the space. The gas fixture eliminates the need for wood storage and keeps things clean. Mike Crews Photography

Greenfield Pergola & Patio

Fiano Landscapes

Small traditional backyard patio in Indianapolis with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Backyard Nicolock Paver Patio Hardscape in Hanover

Ryan's Landscaping Hanover, Pa Patios & Walls

Patio, Backyard Nicolock Paver Patio Hardscape feat. Westchester shown in Stone Ridge XL in Hanover, Pa by Ryan's Landscaping. With 6" Colonial Steps in Granite City Blend.

Deux jardins naturalistes

MAXIME ARNOUX - Paysagiste-Concepteur

Depuis la maison, on observe le jardin, au fil des saisons.
Inspiration for a small patio in Paris with a fire feature, decking and a pergola.

Back Yard Grill & Putt

CG&S Design-Build

This is an example of a small contemporary backyard patio in Austin with a fire feature and a pergola.

Vermont Cres

Gelderman Landscape Services

Jeff McNeill
This is an example of a small transitional backyard patio in Toronto with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Integrated rooms

Juliana Lahoz

Photo: Nenad Radovanovic
Design ideas for a small contemporary backyard patio in Other with a fire feature, decking and a pergola.

Queen Anne Beach Bungalow

Cassie Daughtrey Realogics Sotheby's Realty

Cory Holland
This is an example of a small beach style patio in Seattle with a fire feature.

A Selection of our finished homes

Nick Gage

Outdoor gas burning fireplace, with decorative features and built in seating area covered by bespoke, natural stone pergola
Inspiration for a small contemporary backyard patio in Phoenix with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a pergola.

Lake Manassas Golf Community

Land & Water Design

We took a small non-defined space and created an enjoyable backyard integrating an existing flagstone patio with a new lower flagstone patio, complete with new stucco retaining walls, raised planters, fire bowls and fire table. The main focal point of the patio is the new water feature, a series of basalt towers sitting on a bed of black Mexican beach pebbles. The landscaping & outdoor lighting complete the package. Small yard with a million dollar view of the golf course and Lake Manassas in the background.

Fire-Pit-Bench-BBQ-AFTER-PHOTO-1

Haney Landscape, Inc.

This is an example of a small contemporary backyard patio in Santa Barbara with a fire feature and stamped concrete.

Joyous Wildlife Habitat in Santa Monica

Urban Oasis Landscape Design

An industrial CorTen fire table and outdoor seating create another wonderful place to relax. A low water groundcover “lawn” and play set make this yard friendly to both children and adults. Outdoor lighting in the evening completes the magical setting.

Small Space Courtyard

Living Gardens Landscape Design

This new construction home was a blank slate. Our clients wanted a seating area to enjoy with their family or friends. As the space is quite tiny, we designed a built-in bench with storage below and a fire pit that converts to a table on warmer days. We planted succulents at the base of the fire pit to soften the paving and planted low water but lush planting along the adjacent wall.

Wrought Iron Step Rails at Pool

Great Lakes Metal Fabrication

This home on Lake Huron had a stone stairway that required a graspable handrail for the homeowner and their guests to feel secure when moving down the stairs from the stone patio to the stone deck around the pool. The homeowner preferred the style of wrought iron railing and contacted Great Lakes Metal Fabrication for our help on their metal railing project. We created this forged steel railing to meet the desires of the wrought iron railing look for the homeowner but with the strength and security of forged steel. The forged steel scrolls in the double top area on the landscape railing with the extended lamb’s tongue ends brought function to fashion to the project.

Outdoor Fireplace

Jen Berry Garden Design

Inspiration for a small contemporary courtyard patio in London with a fire feature and no cover.

Greenfield Pergola & Patio

Fiano Landscapes

Design ideas for a small traditional backyard patio in Indianapolis with a fire feature, concrete pavers and a pergola.

DIY Fire Pit Kit

Daco Stone

Daco's complete firepit kit is shipped right to your door with everything you will need to transform your outdoor living space in a weekend's time 770-222-2425

Outdoor Stone Fireplace Surround

MyriadStone

Custom Myriadstone out door fire place with Myriadstone television surround trim.
This is an example of a small traditional backyard patio in Houston with a fire feature, tile and a roof extension.

Outdoor Theater

Ryan Hughes Design

Modern outdoor theater with backlit glass tile, unique semi-circular fireplace, curved outdoor sofa with custom coordinating fabrics, beautiful natural stone and cypress tongue and groove ceiling

Family Room opens to Bluestone Terrace

Stephen Rhoads Architect LLC

Photo of a small transitional side yard patio in Other with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and a roof extension.

Small Patio Design Ideas with a Fire 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, 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!