Adjoining the two units is a redwood pergola with copper flashing, sitting atop white pillars. The raised terrace, which is finished in square-cut, variegated flagstone, laid on a diagonal with bluestone nosing, transitions well to the existing patio below. The new structure and surrounding area is accented with the finest details, including a custom teak bench in the changing room and a custom iron railing. This DC pool house remodeling project turned a lovely outdoor space into a spectacular spot for al fresco entertaining.© Bob Narod Photography and BOWA

Decks

Austin Outdoor Living Group

Small space, Big Impact

Wildflower Landscape Design at K&D Landscaping

A flagstone patio with raised planting beds veneered in natural stone create a big impact in this small backyard. An arbor with supporting a wisteria vine and accessorized with heating units creates an ideal sitting area. A spill pot fountain adds ambiance. Wildflower Landscape Design-Liz Ryan

Mediterranean Courtyard

Sustain Scape

Inckx Photography

Greek Revival Recycle Princeton

Groundswell Design Group Inc.

Transformation of a French Cottage

Barnes Vanze Architects, Inc.

Photographer: Anice Hoachlander from Hoachlander Davis Photography, LLC Principal Architect: Anthony "Ankie" Barnes, AIA, LEED AP Project Architect: Menalie Blasini-Giordano, AIA, Stephen Schottler,

Outdoor Kitchen

K Morris Landscape Design Inc

Keith Morris

Pergola & Flagstone Patio

Hughes Landscaping

Flagstone patio with pergola and buff colored lnays. Photo Credit: Joe Schaeffer

Mediterranean Patio

HGC Custom Homes

HGC Residential Development

Great Hills Clubhouse

User

Jerry Hayes

Pergola and Hot Tub Privacy Screen

Pretty Smart Homes

Stefanie Coleman-Dias

Hangman Valley Residence

Uptic Studios

Conceived as an empty-nesters paradise this house was designed as a series of pods to maximize the efficiency of the footprint and to celebrate the interrelationship of the interior and exterior spaces. Both indoor and outdoor living areas are promoted by the building’s harmonious relationship with the natural environment. The undulating form steps down the hillside to frame incredible views of the landscape and surrounding golf course from every point in the house and a combination of decks, bridges and patios encourage the residents to be outside. This line between in and out is further diffused by both the structure and the material palette’s movement across the exterior threshold, while the shading devices, trellises and large eves provide protection and privacy for year round use and enjoyment of the entire site. This residence is truly a deliberate response to both the owner’s lifestyle and their love of nature.

Poolhouse

Arterra Landscape Architects

Taking inspiration from the agrarian site and a rustic architectural vernacular this terraced hillside garden evolved in response to time and place. The design vision was to celebrate the site, preserve the oak trees, accentuate views and create opportunities for modern day recreation and play. Michele Lee Willson Phototgraphy

Ellen Grass & Sons

Ellen Grasso & Sons, LLC

Outdoor living from kitchen area

Terrapin Residence

LKID

Terrapin Residence Turks and Caicos Photography Credit : Steve Passmore www.provopics.com

Hesperus

SV Design

Built on the former site of a casino, this residence reflects the client's desire to have a home that is welcoming to family members and friends while complementing the historic site on which it is located. This home is formal and stately, with classic American detailing outside and in. Photo Credit: Brian Vanden Brink

Glencoe Residence Landscape Design

Arrow. Land + Structures

Designed by: Marco Romani, RLA. Glencoe Landscape and Outdoor Living Terrace. Fieldstone and Granite Boulder Retaining Wall with Cottage Style Plantings. Incorporated a Custom Cedar Pergola cover over the dining area and Created an outdoor kitchen attached to house wall. The intent was to bring out a Charming Old World Feel to Mimic the Appeal of the Old English Tudor Style.

Cary Bernstein Architect Potrero Residence

Cary Bernstein Architect

All-Season Covered Back Patio

Ami Saunders, MLA

Patio Design Ideas with a Pergola

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!