Rustic Modern Outdoor Entertainment Retreat

This spacious, multi-level backyard in San Luis Obispo, CA, once completely underutilized and overtaken by weeds, was converted into the ultimate outdoor entertainment space with a custom pool and spa as the centerpiece. A cabana with a built-in storage bench, outdoor TV and wet bar provide a protected place to chill during hot pool days, and a screened outdoor shower nearby is perfect for rinsing off after a dip. A hammock attached to the master deck and the adjacent pool deck are ideal for relaxing and soaking up some rays. The stone veneer-faced water feature wall acts as a backdrop for the pool area, and transitions into a retaining wall dividing the upper and lower levels. An outdoor sectional surrounds a gas fire bowl to create a cozy spot to entertain in the evenings, with string lights overhead for ambiance. A Belgard paver patio connects the lounge area to the outdoor kitchen with a Bull gas grill and cabinetry, polished concrete counter tops, and a wood bar top with seating. The outdoor kitchen is tucked in next to the main deck, one of the only existing elements that remain from the previous space, which now functions as an outdoor dining area overlooking the entire yard. Finishing touches included low-voltage LED landscape lighting, pea gravel mulch, and lush planting areas and outdoor decor.

Outdoor Living Spaces

Scuncio Renovation and Development

Red M Photography

TPI Aluminum Specialties Inc.

We are ready to help with aluminum picket fencing, acrylic and vinyl windows, and we can even provide permits for all of your home improvements. You can work with a locally owned and operated business that provides high-quality aluminum services to Fort Myers and the surrounding area.

Kit Carson Road

Susan Jay Design

Who wouldn't want a loggia with all these bells and whistles.: fireplace, TV, music, heat, and cozy outdoor furniture. Perfect to watch the sun go down!

Our Work

Lift Right Concrete LLC

Relaxing Backyard Retreat

Studio A Home Designs

Pinewood Paradise

Alderwood Landscape Architecture and Construction

optimal entertaining. Without a doubt, this is one of those projects that has a bit of everything! In addition to the sun-shelf and lumbar jets in the pool, guests can enjoy a full outdoor shower and locker room connected to the outdoor kitchen. Modeled after the homeowner's favorite vacation spot in Cabo, the cabana-styled covered structure and kitchen with custom tiling offer plenty of bar seating and space for barbecuing year-round. A custom-fabricated water feature offers a soft background noise. The sunken fire pit with a gorgeous view of the valley sits just below the pool. It is surrounded by boulders for plenty of seating options. One dual-purpose retaining wall is a basalt slab staircase leading to our client's garden. Custom-designed for both form and function, this area of raised beds is nestled under glistening lights for a warm welcome. Each piece of this resort, crafted with precision, comes together to create a stunning outdoor paradise! From the paver patio pool deck to the custom fire pit, this landscape will be a restful retreat for our client for years to come!

Tramanto

Green & Rock Unlimited Landscape Inc.

Reyna Sumano

Scottsdale Residence VII

CC Patio

Custom made AYA love seats and ottoman with DEKTON DANAE topper. Steel frame with matte black texture powder coat. Custom cushions with Sunbrella fabric CAST SLATE and CANVAS IRIS ottoman and pillows.

Complete Home Remodel

Progressive Builders.LA

Southlake Pool Cabana and Remodeled Outdoor Living Patio

CDP Environmental Construction

Oak Road Residence

Dillon Kyle Architects (DKA)

Built on open acreage, a lawn and pool court are the only formalized spaces; beyond the precinct of the buildings, the landscape was left relatively untouched. Casey Dunn Photography

Open and Outdoor Living

Presidential Pools, Spas & Patio

Fireplace Chimney

Mantis Design + Build, LLC

The large foot print of the gazebo roof provides a generous shelter from the heat of the sun or a heavy rain. The gable end windows also keep the space and views open while providing light as well as protection from the elements. Photography by Paul Linnebach

Project of the Month: September 2017

TCP Custom Outdoor Living

This freestanding covered patio with an outdoor kitchen and fireplace is the perfect retreat! Just a few steps away from the home, this covered patio is about 500 square feet. The homeowner had an existing structure they wanted replaced. This new one has a custom built wood burning fireplace with an outdoor kitchen and is a great area for entertaining. The flooring is a travertine tile in a Versailles pattern over a concrete patio. The outdoor kitchen has an L-shaped counter with plenty of space for prepping and serving meals as well as space for dining. The fascia is stone and the countertops are granite. The wood-burning fireplace is constructed of the same stone and has a ledgestone hearth and cedar mantle. What a perfect place to cozy up and enjoy a cool evening outside. The structure has cedar columns and beams. The vaulted ceiling is stained tongue and groove and really gives the space a very open feel. Special details include the cedar braces under the bar top counter, carriage lights on the columns and directional lights along the sides of the ceiling. Click Photography

San Pasqual-Exterior

J & M Construction & Development

Louie Heredia

Blue Patio Design Ideas with a Gazebo/Cabana

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!