In the very last bit of space left in the garden, we built an arbored lounge area with a fire pit. The clay pigs were a purchase from "Living Green" in San Francisco. photo...Caitlin Atkinson

Fire Pit Among Turf, ADU, and Vegetable Garden

Landscape Logic

This is how it turned out. Concrete with an accent of flagstone; seatwall w/concrete cap; artificial turf; D.G. pathway; raised wooden garden boxes. By Tony Vitale

DIY Landscape Design in a Day

Landscape Design in a Day

Grading, walls and flagstone patio and plants installed by my homeowner client. Plants were hand selected and delivered by my plant broker. The edibles garden is on the left side. Photo Carol Lindsay, Landscape Design in a Day

Ankeny Row

Green Hammer

Ankeny Row CoHousing Net Zero Energy Pocket Neighborhood An urban community of 5 townhouses and 1 loft surrounding a courtyard, this pocket neighborhood is designed to encourage community interaction. The siting of homes maximizes light, energy and construction efficiency while balancing privacy and orientation to the community. Floor plans accommodate aging in place. Ankeny Row is constructed to the Passive House standard and aims to be net-zero energy use. Shared amenities include a community room, a courtyard, a garden shed, and bike parking/workshop.

Springfield, IL Outdoor Living

Stuber Land Design, Inc.

Zia Terrace

Shah Atelier Design & Construction

Proposed Rooftop Terrace Design in Shaheen Farms Islamabad.

Harbour View Decking

Smith & Sons Renovations & Extensions New Zealand

This glorious home overlooking Lyttelton Harbour in Govenors Bay, Christchurch was in need of a suitable deck space to enjoy the sunshine and the views. Smith & Sons Christchurch Port Hills worked with the client to design and construct the new decking spaces. The deck was designed with different areas in mind for access to the house and for relaxing and dining, each with steps to the lawn. Spaces were also designed to incorporate planting of foliage. The hardwood Kwila was selected for the deck. The owner also took the opportunity to replace all the windows with a modern UPVC to improve the look of the exterior and the insulation of the home. The beautiful results were achieved with attention to detail in every stage of the design and construction process by Smith & Sons Christchurch Port Hills.

Home & ADU Courtyard & Garden

Delightful Living Project

Kenmore Property

Classic Landscaping + Nursery

Glyndebourne Avenue Toorak

Architect Hewson

a new sunny timber deck sits into between the brush fence and the existing house creating a further outdoor room to sit and enjoy the native gardens

Vegetable and Herb Garden circle, pathway and entry gate

User

Marilyn Alexander

A San Jose Edible Garden

User

We added the porch and overhead arbor off the kitchen for alfresco dining. photo...Caitlin Atkinson

Classic Landscaping + Nursery

Looking from veggie garden to dining area

User

Marilyn Alexander

Arts and Crafts Patio Design Ideas with a Vegetable Garden

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, arts and crafts 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 arts and crafts 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 arts and crafts 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!