This is an example of a large transitional backyard patio in Dallas with with fireplace, tile and a gazebo/cabana.

Inspiration for a large transitional backyard patio in Los Angeles with an outdoor kitchen, tile and a gazebo/cabana.

This is an example of a large transitional backyard patio in Boston with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

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

Our client wanted to create a fresh outdoor living space within their outdated backyard and to give a makeover to their entire property. The overall setting was a tremendous asset to the spaces - a large wetland area just behind their home, full of interesting birds and wildlife that the homeowner values. We designed and built a spacious covered outdoor living space as the backyard focal point. The kitchen and bar area feature a Hestan grill, kegerator and refrigerator along with ample counter space. This structure is heated by Infratech heaters for maximum all-season use. An array of six skylights allows light into the space and the adjacent windows. While the covered space is the focal point of the backyard, the entire property was redesigned to include a bluestone patio and pathway, dry creek bed, new planting, extensive low voltage outdoor lighting and a new entry monument. The design fits seamlessly among the existing mature trees and the backdrop of a beautiful wetland area beyond. The structure feels as if it has always been a part of the home. William Wright Photography

Designed to compliment the existing single story home in a densely wooded setting, this Pool Cabana serves as outdoor kitchen, dining, bar, bathroom/changing room, and storage. Photos by Ross Pushinaitus.

The adjacent outdoor gourmet kitchen comes fully equipped with a large Lynx grill, Lynx Side Burner, Green Egg Kamado grill, warming drawer, refrigerator, sink and ample stainless steel cabinet storage space. Photography by Paul Linnebach

Outdoor living in Tulsa OK. Ceiling fan and fireplace extend contributes to a year round space.
This is an example of a mid-sized transitional backyard patio with an outdoor kitchen, a gazebo/cabana and concrete slab.

JS Gibson
This is an example of a mid-sized transitional backyard patio in Charleston with natural stone pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

With a sizeable backyard and a love for entertaining, these clients wanted to build a covered outdoor kitchen/bar and seating area. They had one specific area by the side of their pool, with limited space, to build the outdoor kitchen. There were immediate concerns about how to incorporate the two steps in the middle of the patio area; and they really wanted a bar that could seat at least eight people (to include an additional seating area with couches and chairs). This couple also wanted to use their outdoor living space year round. The kitchen needed ample storage and had to be easy to maintain. And last, but not least, they wanted it to look beautiful! This 16 x 26 ft clear span pavilion was a great fit for the area we had to work with. By using wrapped steel columns in the corners in 6-foot piers, carpenter-built trusses, and no ridge beams, we created good space usage underneath the pavilion. The steps were incorporated into the space to make the transition between the kitchen area and seating area, which looked like they were meant to be there. With a little additional flagstone work, we brought the curve of the step to meet the back island, which also created more floor space in the seating area. Two separate islands were created for the outdoor kitchen/bar area, built with galvanized metal studs to allow for more room inside the islands (for appliances and cabinets). We also used backer board and covered the islands with smooth finish stucco. The back island housed the BBQ, a 2-burner cooktop and sink, along with four cabinets, one of which was a pantry style cabinet with pull out shelves (air tight, dust proof and spider proof—also very important to the client). The front island housed the refrigerator, ice maker, and counter top cooler, with another set of pantry style, air tight cabinets. By curving the outside edge of the countertop we maximized the bar area and created seating for eight. In addition, we filled in the curve on the inside of the island with counter top and created two additional seats. In total, there was seating for ten people. Infrared heaters, ceiling fans and shades were added for climate control, so the outdoor living space could be used year round. A TV for sporting events and SONOS for music, were added for entertaining enjoyment. Track lighting, as well as LED tape lights under the backsplash, provided ideal lighting for after dark usage. The clients selected honed, Fantasy Brown Satin Quartzite, with a chipped edge detail for their countertop. This beautiful, linear design marble is very easy to maintain. The base of the islands were completed in stucco and painted satin gray to complement their house color. The posts were painted with Monterey Cliffs, which matched the color of the house shutter trim. The pavilion ceiling consisted of 2 x 6-T & G pine and was stained platinum gray. In the few months since the outdoor living space was built, the clients said they have used it for more than eight parties and can’t wait to use it for the holidays! They also made sure to tell us that the look, feel and maintenance of the area all are perfect!

Inspiration for a large transitional backyard patio in Boston with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Asymmetrical planter arrangement. Photographer: Darren Setlow
Mid-sized transitional backyard patio in New York with natural stone pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

A So-CAL inspired Pool Pavilion Oasis in Central PA
Design ideas for a large transitional backyard patio in Other with concrete pavers, with fireplace and a gazebo/cabana.

Outdoor kitchens and back patios are more than just a grill on a slab of concrete, they're an opportunity to extend the design elements of your home to the outside! Using wood underneath the patio cabana is a beautiful way to follow-up on this idea.

The Cicero is a modern styled home for today’s contemporary lifestyle. It features sweeping facades with deep overhangs, tall windows, and grand outdoor patio. The contemporary lifestyle is reinforced through a visually connected array of communal spaces. The kitchen features a symmetrical plan with large island and is connected to the dining room through a wide opening flanked by custom cabinetry. Adjacent to the kitchen, the living and sitting rooms are connected to one another by a see-through fireplace. The communal nature of this plan is reinforced downstairs with a lavish wet-bar and roomy living space, perfect for entertaining guests. Lastly, with vaulted ceilings and grand vistas, the master suite serves as a cozy retreat from today’s busy lifestyle. Photographer: Brad Gillette

With a sizeable backyard and a love for entertaining, these clients wanted to build a covered outdoor kitchen/bar and seating area. They had one specific area by the side of their pool, with limited space, to build the outdoor kitchen. There were immediate concerns about how to incorporate the two steps in the middle of the patio area; and they really wanted a bar that could seat at least eight people (to include an additional seating area with couches and chairs). This couple also wanted to use their outdoor living space year round. The kitchen needed ample storage and had to be easy to maintain. And last, but not least, they wanted it to look beautiful! This 16 x 26 ft clear span pavilion was a great fit for the area we had to work with. By using wrapped steel columns in the corners in 6-foot piers, carpenter-built trusses, and no ridge beams, we created good space usage underneath the pavilion. The steps were incorporated into the space to make the transition between the kitchen area and seating area, which looked like they were meant to be there. With a little additional flagstone work, we brought the curve of the step to meet the back island, which also created more floor space in the seating area. Two separate islands were created for the outdoor kitchen/bar area, built with galvanized metal studs to allow for more room inside the islands (for appliances and cabinets). We also used backer board and covered the islands with smooth finish stucco. The back island housed the BBQ, a 2-burner cooktop and sink, along with four cabinets, one of which was a pantry style cabinet with pull out shelves (air tight, dust proof and spider proof—also very important to the client). The front island housed the refrigerator, ice maker, and counter top cooler, with another set of pantry style, air tight cabinets. By curving the outside edge of the countertop we maximized the bar area and created seating for eight. In addition, we filled in the curve on the inside of the island with counter top and created two additional seats. In total, there was seating for ten people. Infrared heaters, ceiling fans and shades were added for climate control, so the outdoor living space could be used year round. A TV for sporting events and SONOS for music, were added for entertaining enjoyment. Track lighting, as well as LED tape lights under the backsplash, provided ideal lighting for after dark usage. The clients selected honed, Fantasy Brown Satin Quartzite, with a chipped edge detail for their countertop. This beautiful, linear design marble is very easy to maintain. The base of the islands were completed in stucco and painted satin gray to complement their house color. The posts were painted with Monterey Cliffs, which matched the color of the house shutter trim. The pavilion ceiling consisted of 2 x 6-T & G pine and was stained platinum gray. In the few months since the outdoor living space was built, the clients said they have used it for more than eight parties and can’t wait to use it for the holidays! They also made sure to tell us that the look, feel and maintenance of the area all are perfect!

This is an example of a large transitional backyard patio in Boston with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a gazebo/cabana.

Interiors by SFA Design Photography by Meghan Beierle-O'Brien
Photo of a transitional patio in Los Angeles with a gazebo/cabana.

A So-CAL inspired Pool Pavilion Oasis in Central PA
Inspiration for a large transitional backyard patio in Other with concrete pavers, with fireplace and a gazebo/cabana.