It takes a certain finesse to assess the landscape and its needs effectively to produce a garden oasis of this scope. Traffic flow, visual aesthetic, and local flora and fauna must be considered. For this build, local fauna such as raccoon and mink threatened the Coi swimming in the pond. Juergen and his design team created designs that incorporated simple forms of shelter for the fish that kept them out of harm’s way. Another challenge the team faced involved redefining the deck space, which was little more than a transition space in and out of the house. Partridge put a new patio in place that blurred the lines between inside and outside and transformed the space into a favourite sitting spot. No matter what challenges Juergen and his team face, they overcome it with unparalleled skill.

Rick Ryniak Architects

Don Bloom Tropical Light Photography

Brennan Residence

Creative Atmospheres, Inc.

Hacienda Courtyard at Flintrock Lakeway, Texas

Alberto Jauregui Designs, Inc.

Hacienda Courtyard at Flintrock Lakeway, Texas

Orange County Atrium

Lee Ann Marienthal Gardens

Photo credit~Jeri Koegel

Lake Geneva

Michael Abraham Architecture

Eberhart

John Lum Architecture, Inc. AIA

Photos Courtesy of Sharon Risedorph

English: Inwood #1

Harold Leidner Landscape Architects

Kelly Fleming Wines

Taylor Lombardo Architects

Adrián Gregorutti

Saratoga Springs, NY Residence

Mandy's Spring Nursery and Landscaping

Pergola on stone pillars with flagstone patio. Field stone retaining wall with plant beds, and waterfall.

English Inspired Country House

Archer & Buchanan Architecture, Ltd.

Spanish/Mexican Colonial

Wendy Black Rodgers Interiors

Modern Fountain - Elm Grove, WI

Ginkgo Leaf Studio

A small, pond-less water feature allows for the sights and sounds of water without a lot of maintenance. A more contemporary water feature vs a typical fountain. Westhauser Photography

Whittfield Residence

One Source Outdoors/One Landscape

A modern courtyard patio area in Las Vegas, NV.

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.

Monaco Luxury Pools - Pacific Mist

Jeri Koegel Photography

Amante

J. Montgomery Designs, Inc.

Clarksville Charmer

Yellow Door Design

Dror Baldinger

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, 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!