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.

Warm Welcome

Pro-Land Landscape Construction Inc.

A compact yet comfortable contemporary space designed to create an intimate setting for family and friends.

Contemporary Patio

Sandy House- Outdoor Shower

LDa Architecture & Interiors

TEAM Architect: LDa Architecture & Interiors Builder: 41 Degrees North Construction, Inc. Landscape Architect: Wild Violets (Landscape and Garden Design on Martha's Vineyard) Photographer: Sean Litchfield Photography

Chicago Outdoor Kitchen

Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet

Mr. and Mrs. Eades, the owners of this Chicago home, were inspired to build a Kalamazoo outdoor kitchen because of their love of cooking. “The grill became the center point for doing our outdoor kitchen,” Mr. Eades noted. After working long days, Mr. Eades and his wife, prefer to experiment with new recipes in the comfort of their own home. The Hybrid Fire Grill is the focal point of this compact outdoor kitchen. Weather-tight cabinetry was built into the masonry for storage, and an Artisan Fire Pizza Oven sits atop the countertop and allows the Eades’ to cook restaurant quality Neapolitan style pizzas in their own backyard.

Photo by Tina Witherspoon.

Del Mar Escape

CRCI

This Del Mar outdoor oasis was designed by SJS Studios Inc. and built by Cross Construction. It showcases a custom built-in teak bench that surrounds a custom concrete / teak table that can transform into a firepit at night. The built-in grill integrates teak with terrazzo countertops that have a waterfall edge and beautiful custom tiles that give the space a unique and coastal vibe. The Annsacks tile is installed in the custom bench pulling the whole space seamlessly together. The trash enclosure features custom teak work with a copper lid and hardware that will patina over time. This amazing outdoor space, features quality craftsmanship and maximizes every corner to provide the homeowners with not only an outdoor coastal oasis but a functioning outdoor area to lounge and host gatherings both throughout the day and night.

Bellaire Blvd. Residence

Hollenbeck Architects

Outdoor Living

Westside El Paso Contemporary Outdoor Living

GO Designs Inc.

Cool & Contemporary is the vibe our clients were seeking out. Phase 1 complete for this El Paso Westside project. Consistent with the homes architecture and lifestyle creates a space to handle all occasions. Early morning coffee on the patio or around the firepit, smores, drinks, relaxing, reading & maybe a little dancing. Cedar planks set on raw steel post create a cozy atmosphere. Sitting or laying down on cushions and pillows atop the smooth buff leuders limestone bench with your feet popped up on the custom gas firepit. Raw steel veneer, limestone cap and stainless steel fire fixtures complete the sleek contemporary feels. Concrete steps & path lights beam up and accentuates the focal setting. To prep for phase 2, ground cover pathways and areas are ready for the new outdoor movie projector, more privacy, picnic area, permanent seating, landscape and lighting to come.

Replaced the step stones with this beautiful easy care mortared irregular stone entry patio.

Commonwealth St, Surry Hills

Fig Landscapes

Poolside Entertainment

CG&S Design-Build

photography by Andrea Calo

Mabel Street, Willoughby (2)

Cordony Group

The classic period charm of this Californian bungalow has been enhanced by smart renovations and interior design where character, style, space and light come together with great success. Embraces spacious living and in/outdoor entertaining. - Flowing layout features high ceilings, timber floors and classic details - Light filled open design - Fold-out doors open seamlessly to a sheltered dining patio - Modern breakfast bar kitchen that overlooks the backyard

Pondside

LandCrafters, LLC

Saving invaluable existing trees, the backyard was transformed into a collection of easily accessed living areas held together with collections of exotic and butterfly attracting gardens.

Somis Residence

CJ Paone AIA | Archipelago Workshop

View from one of two second story viewing decks shows geometrically angled, tiered steps and planters leading beyond the Argentinean barbecue to the pool and cabana beyond. Surfaces include natural stone pavers, reclaimed wood decking, gravel, and acid etched concrete | Kurt Jordan Photography

Arbor Screen for Hot Tub

Pony Lawncare and Landscaping

We installed this arbor to shield the client from neighbors while enjoying their hot tub

Various Projects

Janet Kauffman Interiors & Design LLC

Janet Kauffman - An 8'x11' apartment patio gets a cozy facelift with a collection of vintage finds, layered fabrics and patterns, all atop an outdoor rug. Privacy was created by hanging outdoor drapes. A wooden cart is used for display.

Back Patio

Terra Ferma Landscapes

The small backyard offers offers all of the necessities to city living: entertaining, play, and privacy.

Expansive and Small Patio Design Ideas

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!