Atlantic Beach Contemporary Compact Backyard

Small spaces can provide big challenges. These homeowners wanted to include a lot in their tiny backyard! There were also numerous city restrictions to comply with, and elevations to contend with. The design includes several seating areas, a fire feature that can be seen from the home's front entry, a water wall, and retractable screens. This was a "design only" project. Installation was coordinated by the homeowner and completed by others. Photos copyright Cascade Outdoor Design, LLC

Outdoor Room with a View

FormLA Landscaping

The custom designed and built bench protects the aesthetic calm of the front garden patio. It provides an excellent view of the neighborhood as well as the hummingbirds drawn by pink Alumroot bells, the sweet fragrance and magic wand-like blooms of Hummingbird Sage blooms, as well as the water feature.

Rancho Mission Viejo Contemporary Outdoor Living

Design Focus

This outdoor living area is perfect for entertaining year round. The adjacent stone and Oceanside glass tile fountain provides ambient sound. The fully motorized screening keeps things cozy in the evening to relax and watch TV outdoors.

Oakland Hills Residence

Miller Landscape Architecture

Granite Millstone Water Feature and Seating Area on Decomposed Granite

River City Landscaping,Inc

River City Landscaping,Inc Rick Abalos

Sunset Residence

Hoke Ley

Blake Worthington, Rebecca Duke

Modern Spanish Hacienda | Talmadge, CA

Leanne Michael L U X E lifestyle design

Spanish Hacienda with blue shutters and drought tolerant landscape

High Desert Addition & Landscaping

Lenton Company, Inc.

Courtyard Dining

Able & Serene

Hiren Patel Architects

http://www.phxindia.in/

Modern Mediterranean Family Home

Fati Fakoor Interiors

To create a serene Modern Mediterranean outdoor sitting, dinning with pool and lounge area we did a complete renovation. We removed a portion of the concrete to create dinning area and built an outdoor kitchen with new appliances, sink and black leathered granite. New stucco walls complete landscape design.

Highland Park Shade Garden and Patio

Van Zelst Inc

Photo by Linda Oyama Bryan

New Construction

Dynamic Property Services, Inc.

Pergolas

Bear Ridge Construction

Contemporary Attached Patio Cover

Conscious Environments Inc.

Garden Escape

RootBound

View of urn from lower level family room.

Beaverton Cabana and Pool

C&R Remodeling

A large but pedestrian back yard became a glamorous playground for grown-ups. The vision started with a motion pool and cabana. As the design progressed, it grew to encompass the entire yard area. The Cabana is designed to embrace entertaining, with an interior living space, kitchenette, and an open-air covered hearth area. These environments seamlessly integrate and visually connect to the new garden. The Cabana also functions as a private Guest House, and takes advantage of the beautiful spring and summer weather, while providing a protected area in the cold and wet winter months. Sustainable materials are used throughout and features include an open hearth area with fireplace, an interior living space with kitchenette and bathroom suite, a spa tub and exercise pool. Terry Poe Photography

Outdoor Living in Orange County

TRU Landscape Services

Landscape Lighting

Desert Landscape Lighting

Extreme Backyard Makeover

Crystal Clear Signature Pools LLC

Greenwich Renovation

AJA Architecture and Planning

Modern additions to this existing Mediterranean mid-century home make a wonderful transitional experience.

Patio Design Ideas with a Water Feature and Decomposed Granite

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!