30 Patio Design Ideas

From custom-built fireplaces to grand gathering spaces, find patio design idea inspiration.

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June 11, 2020

By: Virginia Switzer

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A Contained, Private Patio

This cozy outdoor seating area is illuminated by LED string lights in a modern patio. A high privacy fence creates a sense of seclusion (a great option when your patio can be seen by passerby) under the shade of trees original to the space.

From: Project Groundwork

A Grand Entrance

The staircase is not only a fabulous focal point; it divides the space into two rooms. While the upper level is designated for dining, the lower level is ideal for patio furniture that encourages further lounging. Photo courtesy of Joanne Kostecky

An Adaptable Patio

You can't easily change the layout of your patio, but you can choose decor that adapts to your surroundings. Modular sectional sofas can be pulled apart and moved around to make your patio design work as your needs change, whether you are hosting a party of an intimate dinner for two.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Outdoor Dining + Art

You love art indoors, so why not try it outside? This appealing outdoor scene features flagstones edged in grass, casual wicker-and-wood chairs around the cafe table and a large painting focal point.

From: Nest Design Group

Layers of Outdoor Space

This contemporary outdoor space is packed with grand designs in a compact space, from the tiered seating area with outdoor rug to the fire pit and custom bench on the lower patio level.

From: Landwell Design + Build Co.

Row House With A Modern Edge

This updated row house features a modern patio with a modern vertical fence that doesn't block the view but still gives a sense of private space.

From: ZeroEnergy Design

Exterior of Bunglalow-Style Home

This Jefferson Park bungalow in South Los Angeles features an indoor-outdoor vibe and large patio tiles with grass in between to connect the patio to the yard beyond.

Framing Your Patio

The open roof of a pergola on this patio lets cool breezes blow through in the summertime, while an outdoor fireplace offers warmth in the winter. Chairs and a sofa provide cozy, comfortable seating.

From: Baird & Warner and Luxury Portfolio International®

Contemporary Rooftop Patio

This rooftop patio is an ideal spot for dining alfresco. Potted plants bring life to the urban space, and the city skyline provides a beautiful backdrop.

From: Eisner Design

Backyard Flow

A fire pit and vintage signage on this backyard patio give it warmth and character.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Shady Summer Patio

Turn your too-sunny patio into a shady oasis with a cantilever umbrella, durable outdoor rug, colorful furniture, pillows and throw and a summer-stocked bar cart.

From: H. Camille Smith

Vertical Garden on Patio

A beautiful vertical garden is the lush backdrop for this urban patio's sitting area. Designers used smaller-scale furniture so as not to overwhelm the space's small footprint.

From: A Small Green Space

Patio Multiplex

Make this DIY outdoor movie screen in less than an hour and turn your next outdoor get-together into a neighborhood movie night.

Learn More : DIY Outdoor Movie Screen

Patio Built-Ins

A long banquette lines one edge of the patio, ensuring there's always room for one more at outdoor dinner parties.

From: Erica Bryen Design

Plants and Pillows Add Softness

Outdoor pillows in modest prints and a potted orange tree make this patio seating area picture perfect.

From: Marie Flanigan Interiors

Outdoor Eating

Everything you need to enjoy life outdoors is evident in this patio design. A grill and dining table help create a relaxing space perfect for enjoying the outdoors.

Rainbow's End

This dining area with bright red umbrellas on a patio placed at the end of a walkway offers a lovely focal point.

A Patio With Fire Pit

Trees, shrubs and outdoor pillows bring color to this stylish patio. Think about how plants and flowers can enhance your design scheme. A forsythia tree boasts bright yellow flowers; a shrub with purple leaves bursts with jewel tones; and orange pillows add more warm color.

From: Studio H Landscape Architecture

Backyard With Stock Tank Pool

A small outdoor patio manages to work in a water feature with this clever use of a stock tank pool.

From: Bri Moysa

Vineyard Views From a Flagstone Patio

Sometimes the best feature of a patio can be the view. This gorgeous flagstone patio overlooks California's Santa Ynez vineyard.

From: Village Properties and Luxury Portfolio International®

Sublime Symmetry

This stunning outdoor patio features a custom stone fireplace and rustic pergolas with lush landscaping.

From: Barry Block

Riverfront Patio With Pavers

The Indian River comes right up to the edge of the home's backyard. For a bit of geometric punch, this pretty patio separates stone pavers with broad strips of grass.

From: Premier Estate Properties, Inc. and Luxury Portfolio International®

Southwestern Flair

From cactus plants to iron elements, a rustic colored awning to stucco, this patio takes an eye-catching approach to comfort and southwestern design. It's a small space, but the lush landscaping and elevated structure give it real design presence. Photo courtesy of Landscaping Network

A Courtyard With Character

This courtyard patio brings the indoors out with designated areas to relax. Two plush chairs create a conversational corner, the extra seating surounding the tree is ideal for entertaining, and comfortable bench seats provide a delightful dining experience.

Serene Surroundings

Water elements go a long way in a backyard escape. This patio is surrounded by a moat-like feature, which defines the outdoor space.

Modern Design

Clean lines and a variety of different textures enliven this outdoor patioscape. Extra privacy is created with a buffer of lush plants, shrubs and trees. Photo courtesy of Landscaping Network

A Pleasing Patio

Pergolas add instant charm and architectural interest to any patio, defining your outdoor space in a satisfying way. This shaded sitting area uses comfy cushioned chairs and shrubbery to enhance an already pleasant outdoor experience.

Rooftop Patios

Take advantage of your view with a rooftop patio. Outfitted with concrete materials, an abundance of built-in sitting space and a pizza oven, this outdoor space is packed with luxury. Photo courtesy of Concrete Network

Clean and Contemporary

Sometimes you don't need a lot of details to enjoy your outdoor experience. Simplicity meets serenity in this contemporary escape. Photo courtesy of Royal Botania

Extravagant Entertaining

With stunning stone materials, earthy fabrics and an opulent fireplace, this patio is warm and inviting. The functional patio design features a place to dine, gather with guests and play yard games. Photo courtesy of Westover and Photography by Rich Pomerantz

Shop This Look

Photo By: Coreen Schmidt Photography

Photo By: Flynnside Out Productions

Photo By: Julie Soefer

Photo By: Joslyn Amato

Photo By: Eric Roth Photography

Photo By: Jessica Alexander

Photo By: Baird & Warner, a member of Luxury Portfolio International

Photo By: One Fine Stay

Photo By: Robert Peterson; Rustic White Photography

Photo By: Sarah Busby; Styling by H. Camille Smith

Photo By: www.meganmaloy.com

Photo By: Brian Patrick Flynn

Photo By: Ryan Garvin

Photo By: Julie Soefer Photography

Photo By: DianePadys

Photo By: Warwick P Hunt

Photo By: Bri Moysa

Photo By: Village Properties, a member of Luxury Portfolio International

Photo By: Premier Estate Properties, Inc., a member of Luxury Portfolio International