Medium size plant stands over 3' tall. Clay blossoms screw on and off for easy replacement. Rebar, round stock and steel plate. Natural rust finish. Secured in the ground with concrete.

Podere Ferranesi Asciano SI, Italie

Yvan Moreau

Yvan moreau

One of a Kind Modern Berkeley Home

Visual Jill Inc.

Design Build: Encinitas Tropical Fun

The Design Build Company

Mid Century Courtyard Remodel

SCJ Studio Landscape Architecture

Already partially enclosed by an ipe fence and concrete wall, our client had a vision of an outdoor courtyard for entertaining on warm summer evenings since the space would be shaded by the house in the afternoon. He imagined the space with a water feature, lighting and paving surrounded by plants. With our marching orders in place, we drew up a schematic plan quickly and met to review two options for the space. These options quickly coalesced and combined into a single vision for the space. A thick, 60” tall concrete wall would enclose the opening to the street – creating privacy and security, and making a bold statement. We knew the gate had to be interesting enough to stand up to the large concrete walls on either side, so we designed and had custom fabricated by Dennis Schleder (www.dennisschleder.com) a beautiful, visually dynamic metal gate. The gate has become the icing on the cake, all 300 pounds of it! Other touches include drought tolerant planting, bluestone paving with pebble accents, crushed granite paving, LED accent lighting, and outdoor furniture. Both existing trees were retained and are thriving with their new soil. The garden was installed in December and our client is extremely happy with the results – so are we! Photo credits, Coreen Schmidt

Small Patio Spaces

Marilyn's Garden Design

patio garden with low water design Designer and photographer Marilyn Guidroz

Unique Fountain Backyard

Creative Environments

Water features can help turn your landscape into something special, providing a focal point and attracting wildlife. If done correctly, they can bring both beauty and very low maintenance into your backyard. Finding the right design that will fit with the existing look of your outdoor environment is key. We want your water features in Arizona to match the style and sophistication of your home and landscape.

Casa Sonoma

Reyes Landscape Construction

hot tub with custom wooden enclosure

O'neil Passive House Retrofit (Sonoma, CA)

PassivWorks, Inc. - Better Buildings

Our Work

Father Nature Landscapes of Birmingham, Inc.

Elegant Country Estate

Artemis Landscape Architects, Inc.

Organic Modern Outdoor Living

Sage Outdoor Designs

Ed Gohlich Photography

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

Maine Cottage

Leslie Saul & Associates

Lake house fire pit Trent Bell Photography. Richardson & Associates Landscape Architect

Hunters Farmhouse

Younger Homes

Will

Huettl Landscape Architecture

Norway Hill View Estate

Max Rombakh

Branxholm Park House, Scottish Borders

Inside Story Photography

Inside Story Photography - Tracey Bloxham

Patio Design Ideas with Gravel

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!