Image by 'Ancient Surfaces' Product: 'Indoor Courtyard stone elements' Contacts: (212) 461-0245 Email: Sales@ancientsurfaces.com Website: www.AncientSurfaces.com Central Mediterranean courtyards within homes of all major South European design styles, featuring antique stone pavers, fountains, columns and more...

Lake Home Exterior

Cornerstone Architects

Exquisite Mediterranean home on Lake Austin. Photography by Coles Hairston

Patio Seating

Fratantoni Interior Designers

This backyard retreat features a large pool and spa, hanging sofas for some comfortable lounge seating, and the ability to see the entire back of the property. We love the live-edge coffee tables and the patio furniture as well.

Tuscan / California

ARTO

While ARTO products are made in Los Angeles County, California, we are happy to ship our product worldwide! We work onsite with concrete, terra-cotta and ceramic. We build brick, tile and architectural elements for residential and commercial environments. We pride ourselves on providing perfectly imperfect product that gives a feel of rustic elegance.

Moorish-Inspired Hacienda Courtyard

Clemens & Associates Inc.

Hacienda-style front courtyard with a Mediterranean- stye carved stone fountain with blue tile and rustic-style wood outdoor seating with plush cushions. Photo Credit: Kirk Gittings

Patio

Pacific Dimensions, Inc.

AG Photography

Spanish influenced designs

Clint Miller Architect

The home owner desired a home that would grace their Arcadia neighborhood in a subtle manner and echo the original ranch homes of the area. To achieve this desire, they drew on architectural influences from both Ranch Hacienda and Rural Mediterranean. Ranch Hacienda architecture is reflective of historical ranch heritage from rural Arizona and traditional Spanish Hacienda style homes. It is defined by the prominent use of two primary building materials: stone and exterior plaster. This style projects casual informality, characterized by the use of traditional clay tile roofs, timbers, and exposed rafter tails. Informal and asymmetrical rectilinear forms characterize the Rural Mediterranean style, while gable shed roofs create a charming country appearance similar to those in old world vineyards. The primary façade and entry create a friendly and inviting atmosphere. By positioning the home’s long axis perpendicular to the street, the main room is exposed to dramatic views of the Camelback Mountain and, as well, protected from direct sun exposure. Thus, the north courtyard presents direct views of Camelback and offers a very comfortable gathering place for residents and guests to enjoy their favorite glass of wine, during delightful conversation.

OUTDOOR LIVING

CHIP-N-DALE'S CUSTOM LANDSCAPING

Granite Fountain in the Hamptons

KHLA

Koi Pond/Water Garden-HGTV Amazing Water Homes

Pool Environments, Inc.

Bill Bibb, Designer Archiverde Landscape, built by Pool Environments The project includes a koi pond/water garden and waterwall. The koi/water garden acts as a "mote" to the entrance of the residence. Thick native Texas limestone leuders create a bridge visitors cross to reach the home. A large glass wall with built in planters on top is settled in the middle of the water garden and greets visitors upon arrival. It also services as a divider between the main house and guest quarters.

Modern Hacienda

Koffka Phakos Design

Andalusian Hilltop Estate

Allen Construction

Three story Andalusian estate. Plaster and stone exterior. Red tile roof. Floor to ceiling windows and French doors. Groin vaulted ceiling on exterior deck. Guest house, drought tolerant landscape, numerous fountains, pool, spa, bocce court, and putting green. Photography: Jim Bartsch

Small Patio Spaces

Marilyn's Garden Design

patio garden with urn water feature Designer and photographer Marilyn Guidroz

Lake Travis Modern Italian by Zbranek & Holt Custom Homes

Zbranek & Holt Custom Homes

Lake Travis Modern Italian Outdoor Living Space by Zbranek & Holt Custom Homes Stunning lakefront Mediterranean design with exquisite Modern Italian styling throughout. Floor plan provides virtually every room with expansive views to Lake Travis and an exceptional outdoor living space. Interiors by Chairma Design Group, Photo Daniel Driensky Photography

Montecito, George Washington Smiths Design Studio

Margie Grace - Grace Design Associates

Garden and hardscape Transformed

Indoor Courtyards (Mediterranean Style)

Ancient Surfaces

Mediterranean Patio Design Ideas with a Water Feature

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, Mediterranean 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 Mediterranean 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 Mediterranean 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!