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Garden patio decorating ideas


70 Best Patio Ideas for 2023

Hadas Dembo

If you're lucky enough to have a patio, you probably want to make sure you get as much use out of it as possible. That requires some fresh decorating schemes and landscaping treatments to make it feel like an extra special place to unwind. We're here to help you make that happen. Whether you have a tiny patio or a sprawling backyard, our guide to creating a luxurious outdoor area will help you take full advantage of warm weather—and extend the outdoor hangs well into the cooler months with the right design ideas. So read on for stylish backyard and patio ideas to try in your own spaces, from colorful tile design tips to minimalist dining nooks. Fresh air and fresh style ahead.

🏡Love looking at designer spaces for inspo? Us, too. Let's obsess over them together.

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1

Multi-Material

Kate Abt

Kate Abt created several different zones in her backyard patio, including a dining area by the grill and a sitting lounge with a firepit. The brick area speaks to the exterior brick facade of the home while the larger stone tiles help to break things up and offer a more contemporary vibe.

2

Cozy Hardscape

Alyssa Rosenheck

When working with you on a hardscape backyard space, it's important to find ways to warm it up. A built-in bench with bright green cushions and striped throw pillows make this patio designed by Lindsay Rhodes feel inviting and cozy.

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3

Multi-Level Lounge

Tamsin Johnson Interiors

Don't forget to think about your patio from every perspective. Designer Tamsin Johnson gave her tiered patios and balconies the same foundation of white and green-gray stone tiles for a consistent look from above. Modern patio furnishings contrast with the classic checkerboard pattern.

4

Planted Haven

Trevor Tondro

Don't forget the potted plants! Designer Madeline Stuart gave the backyard of this SoCal home by architects Wallace Neff and John Byers a dreamy garden oasis feel with antique accent lighting and plenty of bougainvillea. To warm up the patio even further, she added an area rug and opted for chocolate brown cushions.

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5

Herb and Veggie Garden

ERIN KELLY

Leanne Ford Interiors turned this backyard space into a sweet little garden space with antiques, wildflowers, layers of linens, and a robust garden. If you're looking for loose gravel patio ideas with a shabby chic spin, look no further.

6

Geometric Shapes

R. BRAD KNIPSTEIN

This Palo Alto residence designed by Sindhu Peruri features rich textures and relaxing features, like a vertical fountain, a firepit, and string lights. Ottomans bring some contemporary geometric charm and personality.

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7

Modern Meets Natural

Haris Kenjar

Andy Beers of Ore Studios married the modern, art gallery-esque architecture of this home with the beautiful Pacific North Western forest landscape beautifully. The steel and glass frame and cantilevered style of the home makes it feel like it's floating, and the patio feels like a natural extension with a minimalist railing and bold striped table.

8

Hanging Hammock

Kevin Scott

At a Seattle home by Studio DIAA that literally floats on water, the occupants hung a hammock for a truly restful backyard experience. They also like to place an essential oil diffuser on the cedar deck to maximize the spa vibes even further. Even if you don't have a floating home of your own, you can still hang a hammock somewhere peaceful on the patio.

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9

Colorful Textiles

Hadas Dembo

The textiles are what really set this patio designed by Hadas Dembo apart (The cute dog doesn't hurt but guess what? That bandana around its collar certainly ups its charm). From the vibrant, mismatched cushions to said bandana, linen curtains, and table runner, we'd never want to leave this patio.

10

Game Day Ready

Stephen Karlisch

An outdoor grade pool table on the patio means the party can come outside! Just opposite the custom pool table by Linda Hayslett is a cooking area and banquette for dining and drinks al fresco.

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11

Multi-Level, Multi-Material

Bjorn Wallander

Trees make this Palm Springs oasis designed by Sheldon Harte feel lush while the terra cotta tiles and stone pool deck maintain a sense of place. While the differing materials help accentuate the visual separation between the two patios, they also both thrive under different circumstances (i.e., the pool area needs to be slip-resistant!).

12

Many Use Cases

William Abranowicz

Furniture designer John Houshmand's Mexican property is all about enjoying time outside (in style). This option has tons of seating for larger parties but is also perfect for a quiet catnap. The brick retaining wall speaks to the warm golden cushions, wood tables, terracotta foundation, and bamboo overhang while the stone columns introduce a cooler tone for contrast.

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13

Locally-Sourced Materials

ROMULO FIALDINI

Designer Maria Augusta Luoro of Guta Louro Designs brought her neglected childhood home back to its former glory, and then some. Locally-sourced materials in the backyard allow this alfresco patio area to blend right in with the lush São Paolo countryside. A covered grill and wet bar allow for outdoor dining without the fuss of all the plumbing upgrades required for a full kitchen.

14

Prepped For Parties

Brigette Romanek Studio

Prep your patio for outdoor dinner parties with a sound system. This one by Romanek Design Studio is also ready for a good time with plenty of lighting and extra seating. Pro tip: Choose speakers that are the same color as your exterior walls so they blends in.

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15

Footpath to Tile

Caitlin Atkinson

Landscape designer and Terremoto founder David Godshall opted for a creative hardscape as opposed to grass in this backyard. Not only do playful tiles allow for a welcome pop of color, but they're also drought-friendly and easier to maintain. The lush flora surrounding the area allows for plenty of green despite the lack of grass.

16

Romantic Bench

Fantastic Frank

A private little loveseat tucked away under the shade of the trees sets a romantic garden mood on this patio. Bonus points for matching the red and white fabric to the flowers climbing up the facade of the home.

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17

All White Surfaces

Fantastic Frank

An all-white patio keeps the area cooler when the sun beats down on it in the warmer months. It also allows the gorgeous florals to pop even more.

18

Storage Hooks

Nicole Hollis Studio

Designed by Nicole Hollis Studio, this modern patio is both chic and functional. The hooks make it easy to hang towels and hats, keeping the area clear of clutter on warm summer days.

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19

Modern Materials

Robson Rak

This gallery-esque patio designed by Robson Rak shows off so many striking materials, from the cool marble tiles to the light brick walls and terrazzo stool.

20

Wall Planters

LH Designs

Beautify a patio wall with an array of planters. Southern California–based LH Designs spruced these up with succulents.

50 Best Patio and Porch Design Ideas

Brie Williams

Don't worry if embarking on a major renovation isn't a priority for you in the near future. You can still craft a stylish and comfortable space without breaking the bank, and your patio is a great place to start. From arranging vertical gardens to choosing the right furniture and lighting, a well-decorated patio can make all the difference.

Get ready to enjoy the warm weather ahead by browsing these 50 creative patio and porch decor ideas. You're bound to land on some clever design pointers that are worth incorporating into your outdoor retreat.

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1

Experiment with Checkered Flooring

Liyao Xie//Getty Images

If you've had enough of your drab patio flooring, bring your space to life with tiles in a checkered pattern that complements your furnishings.

2

Display Plants on a Fence

Mike Garten

Looking for a way to elevate a basic wooden fence? Mix and match your favorite potted plants to give it an eye-catching look.

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3

Amp Up Accessories

Quentin Bacon

Simple yet stylish accessories, like a woven tray for serving cocktails and easy desserts, is a must-have for an inviting patio.

4

Swing Chair

KatarzynaBialasiewicz//Getty Images

Any patio can benefit from a playful piece of furniture, like a swing chair crafted of materials such as rattan or wicker.

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5

Anchor Seating with a Petite Table

Good Housekeeping

Curious about the easiest way to bring charm to a patio setup with woven chairs? Place a low-profile table, topped with a colorful floral arrangement, right in between them.

6

Incorporate a Foundation

BonNontawat//Getty Images

Balance a yard full of greenery — and add a sophisticated flair to your space — with a tall garden fountain.

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7

Place a Rug Under Your Dining Table

TimAbramowitz//Getty Images

Rugs never fail to make a design scheme feel more cozy. Bring a dose of comfort to your patio setup by placing a graphic rug under your dining table set. Your guests are guaranteed to be impressed.

8

Don't Overlook Brick Flooring

TimAbramowitz//Getty Images

Brick flooring isn't just a long-lasting option for your patio — it looks great, too.

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9

Weave in a Hammock

The Good Brigade//Getty Images

There's nothing quite like enjoying the warm weather in a hammock, which is perfect for reading or taking a quick nap.

10

Try an Oversized Ottoman

Corbis/Beateworks/© Joe Schmelzer

A large ottoman isn't just great for serving drinks—it can also function as extra seating.

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11

The More Greenery, the Better

GAP Photos/Ma

Breathe life into your patio with potted plants, hanging planters, and trailing vines.

12

Incorporate Preppy Touches

Christopher Baker

Embrace your preppy side by opting for gingham cushions to brighten up your space.

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13

Hang Paper Lanterns

Johner Images//Getty Images

Enjoy an evening outdoors by illuminating your patio with paper lanterns. Layer them with candlelight to make your outdoor oasis really shine.

14

Put Up a Shelf

Lisa Romerein/OTTO

Who said shelves can't be incorporated into outdoor spaces? Consider one to showcase your styling skills or keep entertaining essentials close by.

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15

Use a Patterned Stool

Karyn Millet

A graphic stool can be used to rest drinks or double as extra seating in a pinch.

16

Purchase an All-Weather Patio Set

Durable furniture (think wicker) will carry you through season after season. Give it a fresh look with graphic cushions and pillows.

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17

Add a Flower Box to the Fence

Victoria Pearson//Getty Images

If you've had enough of your drab fence, turn it into a conversation starter with a simple flower box.

18

Experiment with a Hanging Candle Holder

Michael Partenio

If you're dining al fresco, make your table arrangement more inviting by dressing up a hanging candle holder with faux greenery.

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19

Snag a Foldable Umbrella

David Tsay

Celebrate the arrival of warm weather with a foldable umbrella that will instantly make your space feel chicer.

20

Go Big With Pillows

BRIE WILLIAMS

Oversized pillows can hide any unforgiving marks or nicks in your furniture. Just keep in mind that you'll likely want them all to be the same shade or pattern to help bring the room together.

Patio in the country: description and original ideas

For many years, summer residents used suburban areas exclusively for growing vegetables and fruits - as weekend work areas and summer labor camps. In the last decade, views on the use of summer cottages have changed a lot: beautiful lawns, exquisite pergolas, gazebos and garden swings have appeared there. The aesthetics of relaxation harmoniously intertwined with the working aesthetics of the garden, and in some places completely replaced it.


Cozy patio

Nowadays, the creation of a cozy patio in the country house, where you can relax from the bustle of the world and receive guests, is of particular interest.

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What is a patio

A patio is a small paved open-air courtyard adjacent to the house. The beautiful name patio is borrowed from Spanish, and the art of decorating courtyards goes back to antiquity and the Middle Ages, when such areas amazed with their splendor and wealth: fountains and waterfalls, cages with songbirds and expensive vases, carpets and pillows.


Accessories for the patio

Nowadays, the patio is considered as an element of landscape design, which allows you to equip your summer cottage with an original style and unique idea for a corner of comfort and relaxation.


A cozy corner for relaxation

It is quite possible to create a patio on a suburban area with your own hands. The main thing is to decide why you need such a corner in the country. Depending on the purpose, and the size, and materials, and costs will be completely different - from "nothing at all" to a solid investment.

Miscellaneous - different and patio

Classic patio location - directly at the back of the house. If it has a door, convenience increases many times over: you can easily and quickly take out and bring in ready-made dishes and dishes, and, if necessary, remove the furniture.


Classic version of the patio

A cozy corner right at the front door is convenient for single summer residents or elderly relatives who live in the country with you. Beautiful flower arrangements are pleasing to the eye, and the proximity of the door will allow you to quickly get inside the house if necessary.


Beautiful flower arrangements to decorate the patio

If there is no possibility (or desire) to tie the patio to the wall of the house, it can be arranged in any convenient place, protected from prying eyes by specially erected stationary fences made of wood or plastic. Durable paving, properly selected furniture and accessories will make the patio a full-fledged additional room in which the family will be happy to spend all their free time


Patio with fixed railing

The railing does not have to be rectangular. Just such unusual outlines and smooth curves can make your patio the highlight of the whole cottage.


Original patio railing

Alternatively, you can place your patio on a purpose-built area right in the middle of your garden to create a charming spot for rest and relaxation.


Purpose built patio

For friendly meetings, which sometimes drag on long after midnight, the patio can be placed anywhere in the suburban area by building a canopy.


Patio under a canopy

Proper lighting is a prerequisite for a comfortable rest in the evening and at night, and just under the canopy it is convenient to place lamps.


Patio for two

The place for such a patio can be chosen in a remote corner of the garden, where neither a curious look from the outside nor annoying noise can reach. To do this, it is enough to find or free 2-4 square meters of the site, make a cover and place a table with two chairs or armchairs.


Patio for two

In such a place it will be nice to retire for a heart-to-heart talk.

Patio as a place to socialize

For family or friends, you need to find a bigger place. And if visual privacy is preferable for a patio for two, then just the opening view would be the best option for relaxing in a company.


Patio as a place of communication

It can be a beautiful lawn, a picturesque landscape, an artificial pond or a pool.

Ideas for decorating a patio

A patio, like a summer cottage itself, is the realization of the tastes of its owner. Someone loves an abundance of decor, and someone does not tolerate even a minimum of "unnecessary nonsense." The patio accepts any design elements, the main thing is that you feel comfortable and cozy in your patio.

How to decorate a patio in a country house

Climbing plants and flowerpots with ampelous plants will make your patio elegant and joyful. They can be placed both on a horizontal floor and on vertical partitions. And the color scheme is easy to choose for every taste.


Decorate your patio with potted flowers

Unusual wall decor looks original, complete with floor vases and garden figurines. Thus, you can arrange a patio in a national or retro style, give it a fabulous or exotic flavor.


Vases and garden figurines for patio decor

The sophistication and charm of summer are carried by arches and pergolas entwined with greenery and flowers. And decorative pillows on benches and chairs will add home comfort and peace.


Throw pillows will add cosiness

The brazier will perfectly fit into the patio. It doesn't matter if it's stationary or portable. The main thing is that it is consistent with the style you have conceived. You will see - the presence of a barbecue will immediately turn your patio into a favorite gathering place for family and friends.


Patio with barbecue

Increasingly, garden patios include garden swings. This is a great idea, allowing you to retire to read a book or, with your eyes closed, indulge in dreams under a light, measured sway.


Garden swing

Arranging a patio - endless scope for creativity and imagination, everything will be in place: a flower bed, a stream, a waterfall, a rock garden and an alpine slide, a pond and garden figurines, romantic solar-powered lamps. Well-chosen elements of landscape design will give your patio an extra charm and charm.


Charming patio

In the next video, landscape designer Elena Petrova tells and shows how you can create a patio on your site literally from "what is at hand":

If you like the idea of ​​creating a patio in your dacha, go for it!

And we ask you to share your ideas and photos of your patios with us - then your findings will help someone in the design of a corner of relaxation and comfort in the country.

Patio in the country, photo examples of how to make a patio in the country with your own hands

The pleasure of living in a country house is associated primarily with outdoor recreation. Therefore, care must be taken to ensure that this place is well equipped.

However, you should not take on complex and grandiose projects - a cozy patio can be designed simply and at the same time beautifully, comfortably, harmoniously.

Patio at the dacha - a photo of the courtyard in Russian nature

Ketron Custom Builders

Without a roof over your head and does not require large financial investments.

This option is especially good if you already have a veranda, terrace or gazebo where you can hide from the weather. Well, in case of a scorching sun, you can always open a large garden umbrella.

Alderwood Landscape Architecture and Construction

A more solid solution is to build a canopy: during a sudden rain, you do not have to hide in the house.

Shelter can be monumental: with a solid roof, electrical wiring and lighting; such a shelter is kept on solid pillars, which in a few years will be entwined with ampelous plants.

Paradise Restored Landscaping & Exterior Design

Or you can build a less complex canopy: use simple materials for roofing, like polyurethane, corrugated board or even waterproof fabrics.

M Valdes Architects PLLC

A more reliable and expensive option is a gazebo or, as they say now, a pavilion. When planning such a building, try not to get away from the patio - that is, a kind of open-air room.

Let the building be light - use more glass. The maximum size windows, and ideally sliding ones, will allow you to achieve the feeling of being in the air.

Roof under your feet
If space is tight in your yard, think outside the box: find a suitable roof for relaxation and organize your own patio area on it. An impressive view and a quick tan are guaranteed.

I must say, personally, when I saw the patio on the roof of the forty-ton container-hozblok, I was simply delighted!

AD Design Inc

Site requirements
Let's try to find a suitable place for a recreation area. The site should be flat - it is quite possible that it will offer a wonderful view of your entire garden. If you are not a fan of sunbathing, choose a shady place that will shelter you on a hot afternoon.

Tip: The space you have chosen for your patio is best separated by a hedge or a small stone or wood fence.

Amy A. Alper, Architect

Hold firm
The floor will be properly designed with special materials: the floor must be hard, easy to clean and quick to dry at the same time.

Paving slabs come in different colors and can be used to create interesting patterns. Natural wood is suitable - it is pleasant to walk on it barefoot.

Designscapes Colorado Inc.

Illustration: Patio area in the country house - photo from a country house

You can, of course, use natural stone, but it's expensive. An aesthetic and compromise design solution is to alternate stone with lawn: it looks organic against the general background of the garden.

Abloom Landscape Contractor

Furnishings
I love wood furniture on the patio, but this option is only appropriate if there is a roof.

Wrought-iron furniture and sets made of artificial wicker look no less elegant. The main thing when choosing furniture for the patio is that the chairs, sofas, chairs and loungers are comfortable to sit on.

Today, manufacturers have learned how to cover garden furniture in special impregnated fabrics - they also have a soft layer of internal filler, as well as grooves for rainwater runoff. Therefore, the furniture will not suffer from the vagaries of weather and nature at all: it is designed for round-the-clock stay in the open air during the entire warm season.

Tim Barber Architects

Illustration: Building a Countryside Patio with an Outdoor Fireplace

The Hearth is the Heart of the Patio
If space and finances allow, build an outdoor fireplace or stove so you can gather around on chilly evenings.

Can't install a stationary oven? Be sure to buy a mobile grill or barbecue, always appropriate for a warm family dinner.

Alderwood Landscape Architecture and Construction

I would like to dwell separately on fire bowls. This is a very spectacular and romantic decoration of the "street room". You can arrange such campfire gatherings in your garden.

A fire pit can be built solidly using refractory stone. Pay attention to the photo - in my opinion, it will not be difficult for Russian craftsmen to lay out such a square box with their own hands.

Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association

Fire bowls are also portable and compact, and no less beautiful for that. And you can also build them in the country with your own hands.

Stone bowls such as granite are popular; there are also metal and ceramic hearths.

Colorworks Studio

Outdoor Cinema
I want to share with you my personal "trick": I made a real outdoor cinema with my own hands. You can't even imagine what a stunning effect it has on my guests! But I just bought an inexpensive projector, which we connected to the receiver, and stretched a large white canvas-screen on a tripod.

All your favorite movies and series can be watched in the open-air garden! True, the time in front of the screen also had to be planned: it is possible to enjoy such a cinema only on those rare days when my husband's friends do not occupy our garden cinema hall to watch football matches.

Fusion Designed

Finishing touches
Each of us has our own understanding of comfort - so let your imagination run wild, make yourself happy. Vases with flowers (from largest to smallest), dwarf conifers in pots, any aromatic and spicy plants. Do not forget about decorative pillows, cushions, blankets for chairs, deck chairs and swing sofas.

Pedersen Associates

Illustration: How to make a patio in the country house with your own hands - a photo showing how you can decorate the patio with lanterns and garlands time not only during the day, but also on warm evenings.

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