Bakker Design
This is an example of a beach style patio in Central Coast.

Keon House

Demardi.

Mid-sized contemporary patio in Melbourne.

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!

Fitzroy

Doherty Building Group

This is an example of a contemporary patio.

Creekbridge

Daniela Fulford Photography

Photo of a contemporary patio in Melbourne.

Frankston South

LimeTree Alfresco

Photo of a contemporary patio in Melbourne.

Attadale Project

Western Cabinets

This is an example of a large contemporary backyard patio in Perth with an outdoor kitchen, concrete slab and a roof extension.

Waterfront Deck Living - the Grotto - Retaining Wall with a Purpose

Decks & Patio Covers

This space (called the Grotto) below the upper deck provides a place to relax and entertain friends. Move the table under the cover for a waterfront dining experience. The lumber is tight knot cedar with a Penofin finish.

Custom Coastal Luxe Home Build

BCD Building Pty Ltd

Inspiration for a beach style patio in Sydney.

Pear Tree House

Glasshouse Projects

Inspiration for a contemporary patio in Other.

Residential Resort

Turrell Building Pty Ltd

Design ideas for a contemporary patio in Sydney.

Hood House

Mihaly Slocombe

Hood House is a playful protector that respects the heritage character of Carlton North whilst celebrating purposeful change. It is a luxurious yet compact and hyper-functional home defined by an exploration of contrast: it is ornamental and restrained, subdued and lively, stately and casual, compartmental and open. For us, it is also a project with an unusual history. This dual-natured renovation evolved through the ownership of two separate clients. Originally intended to accommodate the needs of a young family of four, we shifted gears at the eleventh hour and adapted a thoroughly resolved design solution to the needs of only two. From a young, nuclear family to a blended adult one, our design solution was put to a test of flexibility. The result is a subtle renovation almost invisible from the street yet dramatic in its expressive qualities. An oblique view from the northwest reveals the playful zigzag of the new roof, the rippling metal hood. This is a form-making exercise that connects old to new as well as establishing spatial drama in what might otherwise have been utilitarian rooms upstairs. A simple palette of Australian hardwood timbers and white surfaces are complimented by tactile splashes of brass and rich moments of colour that reveal themselves from behind closed doors. Our internal joke is that Hood House is like Lazarus, risen from the ashes. We’re grateful that almost six years of hard work have culminated in this beautiful, protective and playful house, and so pleased that Glenda and Alistair get to call it home.

Lincoln Park Historic Row House

Crystal Blackshaw Interiors

Traditional patio in Chicago.

4th Street Townhouse, Park Slope

Harper Design Build

This is an example of a small contemporary backyard patio in New York with natural stone pavers and a pergola.

Earl Street

SK Design

Photo of a contemporary patio in Toronto.

Fire Features

Nansemond Precast Concrete

Traditional Style Fire Feature - the Prescott Fire Pit - using Techo-Bloc's Prescott wall & Piedimonte cap.
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary backyard patio in Other with a fire feature, natural stone pavers and no cover.

Fire Pits

Affordable Hardscapes of Virginia

At Affordable Hardscapes of Virginia we view ourselves as "Exterior Designers" taking outdoor areas and making them functional, beautiful and pleasurable. Our exciting new approaches to traditional landscaping challenges result in outdoor living areas your family can cherish forever. Affordable Hardscapes of Virginia is a Design-Build company specializing in unique hardscape design and construction. Our Paver Patios, Retaining Walls, Outdoor Kitchens, Outdoor Fireplaces and Fire Pits add value to your property and bring your quality of life to a new level.

Estate Residence

Welcome Home Design Group

Victor Coar
This is an example of a transitional patio in Other with a fire feature.

Deck + Firepit

Artistic Concrete Surfaces

Lindsey Denny
This is an example of a large contemporary backyard patio in Kansas City with a fire feature, stamped concrete and a roof extension.

Bellevue Contemporary Custom Home

Lochwood-Lozier Custom Homes

Contemporary backyard patio in Seattle with concrete pavers and a roof extension.

Brown, Yellow 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!