55 Incredible Outdoor Gathering Spots

With warm weather on the horizon, these outdoor gathering spaces will inspire you to create your own outdoor haven.

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March 13, 2019

By: Lauren Fansler

From: HGTV Ultimate Outdoor Awards

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Intimate Sitting Area Surrounded by Flowers

Following a brick path from the dining area leads visitors to the next "room," an intimate sitting area with three chairs. An outdoor rug softens the patio below, while an umbrella promises to keep the space cool.

From: Casa Smith Designs, LLC

Stainless Appliances in Outdoor Kitchen

Against the far side of this outdoor space, a stainless grill and dining table give the owners room to entertain.

From: Torrey Pines Landscape Company

Poolside Modern Outdoor Orange Chairs at Nighttime

Enjoy the pool view from the comfort of your own private deck. The small seating area offers a nice pop of orange in contrast to the cool tones of the house and pool.

From: JMS Architects

Gazebo Outdoor Entertainment Room With Lanterns, Pool Table

Bright, colored lanterns bring a fun and playful element to this gazebo design. Accordion doors allow control over how open or closed the space is to the connecting patio and swimming pool area. Stylish neutral furniture features a collection of colorful throw pillows echoing the vivid lantern mixture.

From: NMA Architects

A Dramatic Sunken Fire Pit Area in the Middle of a Pool

This South Florida home boasts a unique outdoor entertaining space highlighted by a sunken circular fire pit in the swimming pool. The space features ample cushions for relaxing as well as a bespoke lighting arrangement in the seating area and swimming pool.

From: Ryan Hughes Design Build

Built-in Bench Provides Extra Seating Around Fire Pit

The multi-tier design of this outdoor living space provides smooth transitions from the deck to the fire pit seating area. The built-in bench offers extra seating around the modern fire pit.

From: Austin Outdoor Design

Outdoor Seating Area Around Square Fire Pit With Greenery Backdrop

The leafy backdrop in this outdoor seating area creates a sense of intimacy. Have a seat and enjoy pleasant conversation around the fire pit.

From: Urruita Design

Gorgeous Brick Pavilion and Water Feature in Sunny Garden With Wisteria and Iron Decor

A peaked pavilion roof lined with wisteria frames the water structure in the back of the garden for a beautiful tunnel view. Lanterns are mounted on the brick columns are practical and perfectly suited to the storybook look. Wrought iron furniture and a glass table offer a relaxing outdoor dining option.

From: The Collins Group

Rustic Outdoor Space with Stone, a Fire Pit and

Plants are placed near a stone fire pit so that the homeowners and guests can fully appreciate the natural beauty of the space. The stone wall reaches into the landscape and expands the stone patio space.

From: Clinton & Associates Landscape

Resort-style Backyard and Pool

The swing bed underneath the pergola provides views of the resort-style backyard. Annual planters offer seasonal color nearby. Lighting around the yard ties the space together to create an at-home resort getaway.

From: Mom's Design Build

Asian-Inspired Outdoor Area With Fireplace

This Asian-themed outdoor living area mixes simple and traditional styles with modern technology, featuring a glass-enclosed fireplace and an outdoor television. Two sofas face one another across a low coffee table among various potted plants and lantern-inspired lighting.

From: Gunn Landscape Architecture

A Lemon Tree Frames An Entryway To A Secluded Garden Courtyard Terrace

The garden courtyard terrace of this Point Lorna, California, villa home is made more secluded by the use of topiary, as the branches of a lemon tree frame a side entrance. Through the branches lies a pair of cushioned wicker sofas centered under a covered archway and facing a swimming pool lined with verdant shrubbery.

From: Bill Bocken

Tropical Dining Area at Night with Hut, Water Feature and Coral Stone

The designer used a tiki hut to create a protected dining area that the family could use throughout the year. Since the water feature and bridge were such a big part of the family's request, it was important that they would be one of the project's main features. Oolite and coral stone were used for the pond and surrounding areas. The outdoor dining furniture is from Janus et Cie.

From: Craig Reynolds Landscape Architecture

Modern Seattle Courtyard with Outdoor Furniture

The homeowners, guests and pets can relax on outdoor furniture accented by throw pillows within the shady seclusion of a tall, wood privacy fence. The homeowner had a vision for transforming the space, which was already partially enclosed by a fence and concrete wall, into an outdoor courtyard for entertaining on warm summer evenings.

From: Project Groundwork

French Provence Home With Private Fireplace and Patio

Another wonderful feature of this French-themed home is a private patio area and fireplace that appears separate from its main gathering space. One can relax, take a breather or even meditate in this small, out-of-the-way area that is as beautifully apportioned as the rest of the home. Mark Scott and Associates designed the landscaping with a more secluded space in mind.

From: Mark Scott Associates

Contemporary Gas Fire Pit with Stunning Views

Earth, wind and fire. We should all be so lucky to have a patio overlooking these stunning views. This contemporary gas fire pit is perfectly situated for guests to enjoy a relaxing fire on a cool night.

From: Mark Scott Associates

Outdoor Dining Space Under Redwood Ramada

Bright turquoise chairs surround the wood-and-iron dining table to create a welcoming and open outdoor dining space. Etched-finish pavers are set in a grid and surrounded by a pebble border to define each space, while a redwood ramada provides shade overhead.

From: Kathryn Prideaux

Contemporary Outdoor Space Perfect for Entertaining

The mirror surface of the pool reflects the ambiance of an evening under the open ramada. The sleek fire pit is surrounded by modern armchairs, while a geometric light fixture hangs over the natural wood dining table and chairs.

From: Kathryn Prideaux

Pool House Displays Breathtaking View of Mountains

Designed by Wagner Hodgson Landscape Architecture, a wood-burning fireplace was cast in place of concrete with a board-form finish. Its covered position protects it from the summer winds in its Vermont setting.

From: Wagner Hodgson

Inviting Outdoor Lounge With Custom Fireplace

The open fireplace invites all to snuggle close on chilly evenings, while the oversized lounge seating entices family and friends to relax and put their feet up.

From: Nar Bustamante

Raised Patio Allows for Entertaining

Straight ahead, a raised bluestone patio with plenty of chairs gives the owners room to entertain or lounge. Windmill palms flank the patio on either side, while two very mature Crape Myrtles provide a touch of symmetry.

From: Carolina Landscape

Additional Seating in Side Garden With Beach Grass

The beach grass softens the overall look of this small garden area. The natural materials and fun shape of the outdoor seating make this space inviting.

From: Artemis Landscape Architects

Open, Southwestern Outdoor Living Space

Black-and-white starburst tiles create a striking, graphic look to the outdoor fireplace. Above the chunky wood mantel, a flat-screen TV is concealed behind sliding rustic doors. A comfortable sofa with bright red cushions combines with an exposed wood coffee table and deep-seated armchairs.

From: Kathryn Prideaux

Open Pavilion is Relaxing Outdoor Space

Designed to entertain, this outdoor space was maximized to create an extension of the home. The open pavilion boasts a comfortable seating area, gas fireplace, outdoor TVs and state-of-the-art sound system. Grass is planted between stone tile to add softness to the hardscaping.

From: Matthew Murrey

Mediterranean Home With Welcoming Patio

French doors open up the interior living space to elegant, inviting patio. Red brick grounds the space, which is surrounded by lush flower beds and beautifully potted plants. Old World-inspired furniture pairs with cool blue pillows to reflect Mediterranean style.

From: Casa Smith Designs, LLC

Contemporary Outdoor Dining Overlooks Sleek Pool

Geometric fixtures light up the outdoor dining space, which features a natural wood table and chairs. Sleek, contemporary armchairs surround the cozy fire pit, which overlooks the relaxing pool.

From: Kathryn Prideaux

Relaxing Outdoor Oasis With Water Feature

A blue tile water feature is the stunning focal point in this Mediterranean backyard. Old World-inspired furniture is a comfortable place to enjoy the outdoors, both day and night.

From: Casa Smith Designs, LLC

Rustic, Cozy Fire Pit With California Coast View

This small weekend retreat on the flank of the rolling grassy coastal plain in Hollister Ranch, near Gaviota, Calif., looks out on breathtaking panoramic views of ocean and foothills. The flagstone and gravel patio leads to a cozy fire pit surrounded by Adirondack chairs.

From: Margie Grace

Patio Feels Like Private Paradise

Where large palm fronds and pink flowers give this patio a tropical feel, crisp white furnishings keep the space cool and comfortable.

From: Craig Reynolds Landscape Architecture

Exterior Stone Fireplace and Stunning Views

This fireplace was positioned away from the house so when seated on the casual furnishings facing the fireplace, you can also enjoy the stunning views.

From: Mark Scott Associates

Cushioned Outdoor Sitting Area With Concrete Fire Pit

A covered lounge area connected to the pool features comfy, cushioned seating and a concrete-based fire pit that includes enough surface space for resting drinks and snacks.

From: Kurt Kraisinger

Charming Mediterranean-Style Courtyard

To preserve a native oak tree, the Torrey Pines Landscape Company renovated the central courtyard to lessen water usage and create a background tapestry of plants appropriate to its microclimate. A Cameron flagstone patio seating area was carved out to connect to the original stone fireplace anchored to the home elevating the warmth of this outdoor living room.

From: Torrey Pines Landscape Company

Courtyard Outfitted With Warm Accents

Though sleek and minimal in style, this fire feature easily warms the whole courtyard. Orange pillows offer additional comfort and complement the color of the flames.

From: Landform Design Group

Overhang Features Sun Shades

When the sun becomes too much to bear, the owners can simply flick a switch and shades will lower from the ceiling. In turn, this outdoor space stays cool and comfortable.

From: Landform Design Group

Pavers Lead to Intimate Sitting Area

Smooth stone pavers wrap around the side of the pool, leading guests to a covered sitting area. Here, cushioned chairs gather around a fireplace and invite the owners and their friends to relax.

From: Pascale Land Design

Mediterranean Villa Includes Lounge Area

Double doors and brick stairs lead right to the private pool. With two cushioned lounge chairs on either side of the entrance, the owners will have no problem settling into their slice of paradise.

From: Pascale Land Design

Backyard Oasis With Poolside Seating and Palm Trees

This backyard feels like a tropical oasis with a refreshing pool and lounge seating shaded by palm trees and large umbrellas.

From: Craig Reynolds Landscape Architecture

Curtains Reveal Outdoor Dining Area

A full-sized kitchen and designated dining room allow for entertaining while immersed in nature. Flowing white curtains enhance the sense of a private paradise.

From: Bea Pila

Dining Set Complete With Outdoor Kitchen

Stephanotis floribunda climbs the pergola and so keeps the dining area below cool and shaded. To the right, an outdoor kitchen with a grill and bar ensures that the owners and their guests are never without refreshments. Credits: Architecture: Koffka/Phakos Design; Landscape Contractor: New View Landscape; Pool/spa and Masonry: Darin Marten Construction; Metal Work: Salvador Delgado

From: Lisa Gimmy Landscape Architecture

Sitting Area With Tropical Touches

With beams made from Cumaro teak above and animal-print pillows below, this outdoor space feels warm and tropical. At night, lights on the stone columns cast a dramatic glow across the ceiling.

From: Bea Pila

Outdoor Waterfront Sanctuary

The lanai is designed to be a relaxing retreat and a place for the homeowners to get out of the hot Florida Keys sun while enjoying the view of their infinity edge swimming pool and ocean.

From: Craig Reynolds Landscape Architecture

Luxe Patio Features Outdoor Kitchen, Comfy Seating and Fireplace

The ideal spot for outdoor entertaining, this section of the patio features an outdoor kitchen, plenty of comfortable seating, a fireplace and flatscreen TV. What more could you want?

From: Tor Stuart (Barstad)

Fire Pit and Hot Tub

When night cools things down, not to worry! There's a fire pit and a hot tub. Reclaimed wood blocks make fun, sculptural seats.

From: Ward + Blake Architects

Cozy Patio With Cushioned Seating, Fire Pit and Water Feature

A trio of cushioned armchairs with navy throw pillows offer a comfy place to sit by the fire pit. A stacked stone wall, lush plantings and Corten steel water feature next to the pool complete the outdoor design.

From: AguaFina Gardens International

Mod Outdoor Dining With Cove Lighting

A lower level of the backyard includes a wooden dining table with mod black chairs and a wooden bench on one side. Cove lighting highlights the space around, which also features a neat fire feature.

From: Kurt Kraisinger

Glass-Enclosed Deck With Orange Accents

Four wicker chairs with bright orange cushions provide comfortable, stylish seating around the deck's fire pit. Thanks to the surrounding glass wall, this contemporary outdoor space feels even more warm and intimate.

From: Mom's Design Build

Porch Swing Under Covered Deck With Spectacular View

Enjoy the view of Long Island Sound from the comfort of this porch swing. The neutral color palette of the throw pillows matches the clean lines of the swing and outdoor space.

From: Artemis Landscape Architects

Covered Sitting Area With TV & Fireplace

To ensure that her clients felt as comfortable as possible, designer Bea Pila outfitted the gazebo with all the amenities of an indoor space, including two ceiling fans, a television, a fireplace, cushioned furniture and a weather-proof area rug.

From: Bea Pila

Bistro Lights, Fireplace Illuminate Outdoor Dining Space

At night, bistro lights and a working fireplace cast an enchanting glow across this chic dining space. With a table set for six, the owners and their guests can enjoy dinner al fresco and then head to the fire pit for drinks.

From: BOXHILL

Timeless, Tuscan-Inspired Kitchen

What pool house would be complete without its own kitchen? Designer Betty Lou Phillips continued the soft Tuscan touches with stone arches and a few iron accents. Three barstools offer additional seating.

From: Betty Lou Phillips

Blue Hues Brighten Outdoor Dining Area

Across the way, an outdoor dining table comfortably seats six. Blue cushioned chairs not only complement the chaises by the pool, but are also water-resistant in case of stormy weather.

From: Betty Lou Phillips

Notched Garden Wall Showcases City Skyline

Clean lines and low-level garden walls provide sweeping views of the desert and city skyline below. In turn, the backyard turns an everyday feature into a stunning visual display and so celebrates the local landscape.

From: BOXHILL

Deck Enlivened By Orange, Blue Accents

Orange cushions and blue pillows make an eye-catching addition to this paved deck, enhancing the space's contemporary style. With nine chairs all around, the owners will have no problem seating all of their guests.

From: Mary LeBlanc Landscape Design

Luxurious Poolside Four-Post Hammock With White Sheet and Striped Pillows

Four arching posts create an artistic base for the white cushion hammock. A white cover, bunched at each post, shades the swing. Navy and white striped pillows add additional comfort to the space.

From: SOJO Design

Covered Outdoor Sitting Area by the Spa and Pool

A pair of cushioned armchairs and a matching loveseat under the cabana offer seating for those who don't want to partake in swimming or relaxing in the spa.

From: Harold Leidner

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Photo By: Mark Pinkerton, vi360

Photo By: Martin Mann

Photo By: Siggi Ragnar

Photo By: Ciro Coelho Photography

Photo By: Joe Traina

Photo By: Austin Outdoor Design

Photo By: Matt Sartain Photography

Photo By: Kenny Collins, The Collins Group, Inc.

Photo By: 3Sixty

Photo By: Steve Silverman Imaging

Photo By: Alex Herring

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Photo By: Mark Scott Associates - French Provence

Photo By: Mark Scott

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Photo By: Chris & Cami Photography, LLC

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Photo By: Mark Pinkerton, vi360

Photo By: Matt Vacca

Photo By: Mark Pinkerton, vi360

Photo By: Lepere Studio

Photo By: Mark Scott

Photo By: Travis Bechtel Photography

Photo By: Martin Mann

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Photo By: Harold Leidner Company Landscape Architects

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HGTV Ultimate Outdoor Awards

55 Incredible Outdoor Gathering Spots

Related To:

Intimate Sitting Area Surrounded by Flowers

Stainless Appliances in Outdoor Kitchen

Poolside Modern Outdoor Orange Chairs at Nighttime

Gazebo Outdoor Entertainment Room With Lanterns, Pool Table

A Dramatic Sunken Fire Pit Area in the Middle of a Pool

Built-in Bench Provides Extra Seating Around Fire Pit

Outdoor Seating Area Around Square Fire Pit With Greenery Backdrop

Gorgeous Brick Pavilion and Water Feature in Sunny Garden With Wisteria and Iron Decor

Rustic Outdoor Space with Stone, a Fire Pit and

Resort-style Backyard and Pool

Asian-Inspired Outdoor Area With Fireplace

A Lemon Tree Frames An Entryway To A Secluded Garden Courtyard Terrace

Tropical Dining Area at Night with Hut, Water Feature and Coral Stone

Modern Seattle Courtyard with Outdoor Furniture

French Provence Home With Private Fireplace and Patio

Contemporary Gas Fire Pit with Stunning Views

Outdoor Dining Space Under Redwood Ramada

Contemporary Outdoor Space Perfect for Entertaining

Pool House Displays Breathtaking View of Mountains

Inviting Outdoor Lounge With Custom Fireplace

Raised Patio Allows for Entertaining

Additional Seating in Side Garden With Beach Grass

Open, Southwestern Outdoor Living Space

Open Pavilion is Relaxing Outdoor Space

Mediterranean Home With Welcoming Patio

Contemporary Outdoor Dining Overlooks Sleek Pool

Relaxing Outdoor Oasis With Water Feature

Rustic, Cozy Fire Pit With California Coast View

Patio Feels Like Private Paradise

Exterior Stone Fireplace and Stunning Views

Cushioned Outdoor Sitting Area With Concrete Fire Pit

Charming Mediterranean-Style Courtyard

Courtyard Outfitted With Warm Accents

Overhang Features Sun Shades

Pavers Lead to Intimate Sitting Area

Mediterranean Villa Includes Lounge Area

Backyard Oasis With Poolside Seating and Palm Trees

Curtains Reveal Outdoor Dining Area

Dining Set Complete With Outdoor Kitchen

Sitting Area With Tropical Touches

Outdoor Waterfront Sanctuary

Luxe Patio Features Outdoor Kitchen, Comfy Seating and Fireplace

Fire Pit and Hot Tub

Cozy Patio With Cushioned Seating, Fire Pit and Water Feature

Mod Outdoor Dining With Cove Lighting

Glass-Enclosed Deck With Orange Accents

Porch Swing Under Covered Deck With Spectacular View

Covered Sitting Area With TV & Fireplace

Bistro Lights, Fireplace Illuminate Outdoor Dining Space

Timeless, Tuscan-Inspired Kitchen

Blue Hues Brighten Outdoor Dining Area

Notched Garden Wall Showcases City Skyline

Deck Enlivened By Orange, Blue Accents

Luxurious Poolside Four-Post Hammock With White Sheet and Striped Pillows

Covered Outdoor Sitting Area by the Spa and Pool

Shop This Look

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