The Fig Trees

Tania J Coward ARCHITECT

Hood House

Mihaly Slocombe

Hood House is a playful protector that respects the heritage character of Carlton North whilst celebrating purposeful change. It is a luxurious yet compact and hyper-functional home defined by an exploration of contrast: it is ornamental and restrained, subdued and lively, stately and casual, compartmental and open. For us, it is also a project with an unusual history. This dual-natured renovation evolved through the ownership of two separate clients. Originally intended to accommodate the needs of a young family of four, we shifted gears at the eleventh hour and adapted a thoroughly resolved design solution to the needs of only two. From a young, nuclear family to a blended adult one, our design solution was put to a test of flexibility. The result is a subtle renovation almost invisible from the street yet dramatic in its expressive qualities. An oblique view from the northwest reveals the playful zigzag of the new roof, the rippling metal hood. This is a form-making exercise that connects old to new as well as establishing spatial drama in what might otherwise have been utilitarian rooms upstairs. A simple palette of Australian hardwood timbers and white surfaces are complimented by tactile splashes of brass and rich moments of colour that reveal themselves from behind closed doors. Our internal joke is that Hood House is like Lazarus, risen from the ashes. We’re grateful that almost six years of hard work have culminated in this beautiful, protective and playful house, and so pleased that Glenda and Alistair get to call it home.

Bells Interior Styling

Kennedy and Co Interiors

Willow Vale Farm

Habitat Studio Architects

Hawthorn Alterations & Additions

Sketch Building Design

San Francisco 2-Story Addition

JMJ Studios

View of rear yard included custom-colored concrete walls, pavers, riverstone and a built-in bench around a firepit. Sliding Glass wall system by Nanawall. All exterior lighting by Bega. Catherine Nguyen Photography

Del Mar Exterior Renovation

SJS Studios Inc.

Bluestone Pavers, custom Teak Wood banquette with cement tile inlay, Bluestone firepit, custom outdoor kitchen with Teak Wood, concrete waterfall countertop with Teak surround.

Port Streets 10

Garden Studio

Sammamish Outdoor Living and Backyard Makeover

Urban Oasis Design & Construction LLC

Mangaris Wood Custom Patio Screen

Outside InStyle

Mangaris wood privacy screen with changing widths to add interest. Porch wood screen blocks barbeque from deck patio view. Photo by Katrina Coombs

Outdoor Fire Pit with Concrete/Grass Pavers

California Landscape Construction

We created a custom paver design and included a gas fire pit.

Kalorama Contemporary

Horn & Co. (Previously JHLA)

Our clients on this project were inspired by their travels to Asia and wanted to mimic this aesthetic at their DC property. We designed a water feature that effectively masks adjacent traffic noise and maintains a small footprint.

An Entertainers Kitchen

Southview Design

This outdoor kitchen/bar provides everything you need to entertain your guests outdoors. The stainless steel cabinets along the wall house a sink, refrigerator and plenty of storage.

Zelkind Residence

Revive Landscape Design

West Coast English Retreat

Tierra Madre Fine Gardens

Photo by Samantha Robison

Portfolio

Edmunds Studios Photography, Inc.

Design: modernedgedesign.com Photo: Edmunds Studios Photography

Bartlesville Outdoor Living

Tanner Consulting LLC- Landscape Architecture

The large rough cedar pergola provides a wonderful place for the homeowners to entertain guests. The decorative concrete patio used an integral color and release, was scored and then sealed with a glossy finish. There was plenty of seating designed into the patio space and custom cushions create a more comfortable seat along the fireplace. Jason Wallace Photography

Patio Design Ideas with No Cover and 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!