Mid-sized contemporary patio in Melbourne.

Custom Coastal Luxe Home Build

BCD Building Pty Ltd

Inspiration for a beach style patio in Sydney.

Dartmouth House

Shane Marsh Architects

Photo of a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Brisbane with a fire feature, gravel and an awning.

Gathering House

Sandbox Studio®

Positioning the home as a conduit for family and togetherness, Gathering House is expanded to facilitate an open and engaging residential experience, melding both old and new within the one generous site. Taking references from the existing formal silhouette and materiality already in place, the focus became on extruding the original form while imbedding new principles of increased scale and openness throughout. Binding the interior to the larger landscape was also key, driving clear visual connections between inside and out and allowing the functions of the home to spill out into dedicated outdoor entertaining areas. The home celebrates coming together, dotted with moments of compression and release to align with varying levels of passive or active animation, retaining the familiar intimacy of home.

Creekbridge

Daniela Fulford Photography

Photo of a contemporary patio in Melbourne.

Noosa Retreat

Fluid Design

House Design - Chris Halliday Void Building Design Construction - SX Constructions Photos - Brock Beasley
Photo of a contemporary patio in Sunshine Coast.

Bella Vista

Opening Roof Specialists

This Bella Vista pergola area adds a new dimension to the home. Sitting conveniently next to the in-ground pool, it is furnished with comfortable outdoor lounge seating, 10-seat dining table, and a woodfire pizza oven. Opening Roof Specialists gave special attention to all the finishing touches. The natural pergola colour scheme is matched to its surroundings, making it a calming and harmonious space to be in. Complete with LED lights, ceiling fan, and motorised opening louvres, entertaining guests by the poolside has never been more luxurious!

Pear Tree House

Glasshouse Projects

Inspiration for a contemporary patio in Other.

Oak Framed Garage, Harrogate

architecture:ab ltd

Green Oak Garden Room
Photo of a mid-sized country backyard patio in Other with brick pavers and a pergola.

Bluestone Irving Park

KD Landscape

The quaking aspen provide upper level screening, but still allow light through to the patio. Photography by Larry Huene Photography.
Photo of a small contemporary backyard patio in Chicago with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Backyard Elegance

Susan Friedman Landscape Architecture

The outdoor fireplace and raised spa, make a beautiful focal point in this exquisite backyard landscape renovation.
Photo of an expansive traditional backyard patio in San Francisco with a fire feature and no cover.

Outdoor Kitchens

Hursthouse Landscape Architects and Contractors

Centered on an arched pergola, the gas grill is convenient to bar seating, the refrigerator and the trash receptacle. The pergola ties into other wood structures on site and the circular bar reflects a large circular bluestone insert on the patio.

Cliffside Farmhouse // Modern Farmhouse

Younger Homes

Large country backyard patio in Austin with decking and a roof extension.

Labelle/ Carmel Valley

Brenda Gold Designs

Mediterranean patio in San Diego with with fireplace, tile and no cover.

N Maney Avenue

J Taylor Designs

Design ideas for a mid-sized country backyard patio in Nashville with an outdoor kitchen, concrete pavers and a roof extension.

Wicked Shade Projects

Wicked Shade, Inc.

Eclectic patio in Salt Lake City.

Maison individuelle

atemps

Damien Aspe
This is an example of a mid-sized mediterranean backyard patio in Toulouse with concrete slab and a roof extension.

Carlsbad, California, Modern

dRichards Interiors

This project combines high end earthy elements with elegant, modern furnishings. We wanted to re invent the beach house concept and create an home which is not your typical coastal retreat. By combining stronger colors and textures, we gave the spaces a bolder and more permanent feel. Yet, as you travel through each room, you can't help but feel invited and at home.

Palmetto Bluff Home and Guest House

Ellis Construction Co., Inc.

This is an example of a traditional backyard patio in Atlanta with a fire feature.

pergola with lighting, stone flagging and outdoor bar

Q Design Group LLC

Walpole
Photo of a mid-sized traditional backyard patio in Other with an outdoor kitchen, natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Blue, Turquoise 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!