Photo by Roehner + Ryan

This custom louvered roof system creates a comfortable retreat in the homeowner's backyard. The shade control afforded by the adjustable louvers is an essential element in providing an idylliic outdoor living space no matter the weather. The addition of a firepit and cozy lighting allow for this space to be used at all times of day.

Swing To Spa and In Between

bsq Landscape Architects

This project aimed to design an expansive patio for dining and lounging while including a hot tub, decking, and a lawn for seasonal sport edged by a low maintenance garden. From setting up a winter hockey rink to enjoying the summer evenings, it was important that the water flow was well managed. To achieve this, we terraced the rear yard creating an elongated brick and stone patio with a covered dining area; used was a rough wood timber framing that supported a personal scripted swing, a covered hot tub and waterfall adjacent a lounge, focused around a natural gas fireplace. Transitioning from patio to lawn was a mid-level wood boardwalk where the client could place seating to watch over a game of soccer or winter hockey. To maintain a non-obstructed view of the garden and lawn from inside the house, we set the beams of the pergola slightly higher than the house windows and added tall perennials to screen the boardwalk. To further mimic the house's traditional details, we added tumbled red brick and natural stone paving of various sizes to highlight the patio and walkways. At the same time, all transitions included cedar wood stairs and decking. Below are many pictures of the process of transformation.

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White Onyx Beacon Chat Height Gas Fire Pit Table

The Outdoor GreatRoom Company

The Beacon Gas Fire Pit Table Collection is a beautiful new take on a classic style. The unique White Onyx Supercast™ concrete top sits upon the durable powder-coated steel base. Chat height naturally invites guests to the sit around the fire and relax. The 20" Crystal Fire® Plus Burner is UL Listed for safety.

The Macquarie 33 | DecoPanel

DECO Australia

Among the home’s many impressive features, is the visually striking outdoor entertaining area featuring a DecoPanel custom perorated pergola. The pergola, finished DECO’s new rust-look finish Earthy OchreTM, expands across the entire BBQ area creating a cosy and very modern sanctuary to kick back and relax.

Irvington Deck + Patio

Howells Architecture + Design

We converted an underused back yard into a modern outdoor living space. A bright tiled planter anchors an otherwise neutral space. The decking is ipe hardwood, the fence is stained cedar, and cast concrete with gravel adds texture at the fire pit. Photos copyright Laurie Black Photography.

Mission Hills Post-war Modern

Torrey Pines Landscape Co., Inc

Post-war modern outdoor kitchen in Mission Hills. Two-sided fireplace, pizza oven, BBQ, pergola with shade canvas

Small Back Garden

Magical Gardens

Matching a Modern Home in Richmond

Outdoor Dreams

Casa da Familia

Eyoh Design

Bring your life outdoors!

CAT IN A HAMMOCK

Refinished fireplace

House extension in Barnes

Square One Architects

The small rear patio is related to the internal spaces thus maximizing the sense of space. The wooden bench has been designed to conceal a practical low storage unit.

Rustic Modern Outdoor Entertainment Retreat

Landwell Design + Build Co.

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.

Patio Doors

Fenessco Doors and Windows

Kowski Project

Timberline Patio Covers

This project is a skillion style roof with an outdoor kitchen, entertainment, heaters, and gas fireplace! It has a super modern look with the white stone on the kitchen and fireplace that complements the house well.

Westfield Modern Oasis

Fiano Landscapes

This water feature provides a wonderful calming effect throughout the space. Its positioning makes it a focal point from every seat for family and friends to enjoy. At night it is illuminated for an even more dramatic effect.

MSI Arterra

Astro Masonry

MS International

Modern 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, modern 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 modern 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 modern 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!

Outdoor Structure, London

ShadeFX

ShadeFX pre-engineered curtain tracks into the custom aluminum structure. The addition of two outdoor curtains, in a matching sunbrella fabric, provide the homeowners with a multifunctional, weatherproof space.