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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
