9. Modern Makeover
This Toronto yard received a style upgrade with an expanded deck, an outdoor kitchen and a new spot for lounging that’s the centerpiece of the design. The pergola’s horizontal slats on one side and overhead provide privacy and definition while still letting light in. And a new pool installed by Betz Pools is just steps away.
8. Danish Inspiration
The designers at Everything Home took cues from the Danish concept of hygge when designing this Indiana outdoor lounge area. The term, which, roughly translated, describes the pleasure of being in a warm and cozy atmosphere, inspired the modern minimalist furnishings and warm wood finishes. The soft rug and cool palette of whites and grays creates an inviting feeling that complements the Scandinavian style of the great room beyond the sliding glass doors.
7. Earth Elements
Fire, water and stone combine to form a striking focal point on this Solana Beach, California, patio. The rock wall provides a stunning backdrop for the fireplace, which is flanked by matching water features. Rockwell Interiors finished the look with tropical-inspired plants, shingled fencing, and wood and wicker furnishings.
6. French Eclectic
Interior architecture firm Atelier Nadège Nari mixed old, new and the unexpected to give this patio in Saint-Pierre d’Oléron, France, a one-of-a-kind look. The weathered wood deck, overhead beams and bistro chairs nod to the past. The multiple metal planters filled with a mix of plants provide an industrial touch. Finishing details include a hanging lantern, stone statuary, wind chimes and a wood crate table base.
5. Maximum Views
This minimalist deck focuses attention on the sweeping views of the surrounding hills. Part of a Scandinavian-inspired remodel by design-build firm Douglah Designs, the deck has a pared-down style and weathered look that complements the interior of the Moraga, California, home. The low-profile fire pit and surrounding chairs invite guests to enjoy the scenery without blocking the views from the adjoining great room.
4. Side Yard Seclusion
Comfy couches, a large fire pit and plenty of greenery turn this Dallas side yard tucked between the house and a wall into a secluded retreat. Landscape architect Harold Leidner added symmetrical panels of greenery that extend along the wall and back fence to create a subtle connection to the pool area in the adjoining backyard.
3. Designed for Entertaining
With an outdoor kitchen, fireplace, dining area and lounge area, this Boston patio by Jill Litner Kaplan is an entertainer’s dream. Stone surfaces and pavers complement the home’s traditional look, while mature trees provide welcome shade and a sense of permanence.
1. Double-Duty Design
Daren Langhorne of Core Outdoor Living turned a sloped backyard in Washington, D.C., that directed runoff toward the house into an inviting patio that blends style with practicality. The stone fireplace and curved seating walls define the now-level patio area. They also function as a retaining wall that, aided by a perforated pipe set behind them, funnels the water running down the hillside to either side.
If your goal is to create an outdoor space that people will want to use, just add features and amenities that draw them outside. Top-of-the-list of considerations should be comfortable furniture, a fire feature, an outdoor kitchen, nice landscaping and even a TV. You’ll find plenty of these design elements and more in this countdown of the most popular patio and decks.(cited)
10. Private Patio
The fire pit and surrounding seating area at this Newport Beach, California, home is the ideal spot for morning coffee for two or a casual conversation under the stars for four. Patterson Custom Homes created a subtle separation from the main courtyard with a planting bed filled with low-growing shrubs. Double glass doors off the primary suite provide a private entrance to the space.