This 34' x 24' contemporary, modern pool is at the Deja View Rental Villa in St. John USVI. Through a massive renovation, the pool was converted to an infinity edge pool and this front sun deck was dropped over four feet to open the view to the Caribbean water. Blue 2" x 2" glass tile makes the infinity edge falls stand out. The sun deck includes six chaise loungers, a round lounger and two redwood benches. There is also a top patio above the pool and a complete outdoor kitchen/bar including an ice maker on the the side of the pool providing fun in the sun or shade. In the front of the picture you can see the edge of the sunken jacuzzi that is perched on the corner of the deck overhanging the edge of the cliff. Cable railing provides an unobstructed view and the railing was dropped on the cat walk outside the jacuzzi to completely open the view. www.dejaviewvilla.com Steve Simonsen Photography

Dana Point

Ray Morrow Design

Lafayette Contemporary Tropical Resort

Viator & Associates Inc

Quiet Backyard Retreat

JDLA Landscape Architecture Inc.

Ocean Tide

Soucie Horner, Ltd.

This refined family retreat in the British Virgin Islands gathers multiple generations in sophisticated comfort. Layered with custom furnishings, fabrics, and finishes, it exemplifies the best in elegant island living. Photos by Werner Straube

Orchid Wall and Koi Pond

Beth H. :

Koi pond was all a DIY. Made of concrete. Deck is redwood. Waterfall area was redone recently and is made of river rocks and boulders, mortared and lined w/pond liner. Bio falls waterfall and Pressurized bead filter that is sunk in the ground (hidden by the plants and the redwood wall!) Orchid boxes all made from scrap wood, sealed and stained. Koi are about 10 years old. The wood on the ground in the foreground is an african teak. It was sealed w/a spar varnish, but constant water from the sprinklers have taken it's toll. See the next picture for the deck re-do!

The Jobson Project

Construction Landscape, LLC.

Changing this very small squared backyard into a usable colorful courtyard. Removing the screens from the porch created a nice indoor outdoor room with sound, fragrance & color...color...color. Landscape designed and installed by Construction Landscape With Designs by Jennifer Bevins. Servicing The Treasure and Space Coast 772-492-8382.

Ownby Design

Hualalai Estate Photo Credit: Mark Boisclair Photography

Malibu Residence

Anderson/Collier Architects

Ka'ulu Estates at Hualalai Resort

Carrie Nicholson, RB, BIC, HL1 Director

Estate Pool

Lowcountry Custom Pool and Spa

Charleston Home and Design Magazine

Angus McRitchie

Peaceful Luxury Retreat

Carrie Nicholson, RB, BIC, HL1 Director

Guest suite patio with wet bar.

Water Features

Green Giant Nursery & Landscape

Custom Rock Waterfall Pool with Stone Grotto, Stream and Tiki Hut

Lucas Lagoons Inc.

From the spa we make our way to the amazing pool deck area, with room for multiple chaise lounges to soak in the sun, the pool view or the bay vista, docks and beyond. Back poolside, the oversize tiki hut has a hammock, outdoor deep seating with tables, art and more. Photo: Geza Darrah

Hualalai Private Residence

Pacific Aina Design, LLC

Custom designed geometric stained concrete stepping stones with ili ili joints, custom designed water feature with integrated 3-tiered water wall, cut tumbled basalt brick edging and custom landscape and irrigation.

Capriano at Mediterra

London Bay Homes

This London Bay furnished model faces south overlooking a stunning lake and Italian gardens. The Capriano model includes an additional fourth bedroom, two car garage, second floor sun deck and game room. The overall dimensions of the Capriano is 4,402 A/C square feet and 5,974 total square feet. Other optional features include an outdoor kitchen, remote control operated roll down lanai screens, an outdoor kitchen, and many other upgraded details. Interior design, furnishings and selections completed by Romanza Interior Design. Image ©Advanced Photography Specialists

Troon-Pool Deck

Legacy Custom Homes

Legacy Custom Homes, Inc. Newport Beach, CA

Tropical 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, tropical 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 tropical 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 tropical 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!