Fire It Up
An outdoor fire is the perfect centerpiece to spark conversation. Whether you choose a ready-made portable fire pit or a custom built-in, your outdoor space is sure to enjoy a warm ambience.
Related: How To Build a Basic Backyard Fire Pit
Theater with a View
There's nothing quite like watching a movie under the stars, and if the action's happening on a high-def screen—well, all the better. The only thing missing from this patio is the popcorn.
Dining Alfresco
Here, it's all about the dining area. With such a welcoming environment expressly for your table and chairs, you'll be tempted to savor all your meals alfresco. Make the space more formal by anchoring it with a graphic outdoor rug.
Perfect Pergola
If your patio seems flat and without character, consider a freestanding pergola or gazebo to add interest. Garden structures like these come with a bonus: privacy and shade for family meals.
Related: Pergolas – What’s Old Is New Again
genus-loci.ca
Living in Style
Re-creating your living room outside is a sure way to make you feel right at home on your patio. There's no reason an outdoor space can't have all the comforts of the indoors, such as coffee tables and end tables.
Related: 12 Outdoor Rugs to Fit Every Budget and Style
Let the Games Begin
Patio tiles turned game board just beg you to let the good times roll. Whether the attraction is a simple game of chalk-drawn hopscotch or a chess match played with life-size pawns, you'll always be able to say "game on" at your place.
Related: 10 DIY Lawn Games to Bring the Amusement Park Home
houzz.com via teretrout
Garden Nook
Pull up a comfortably rustic chair and surround yourself with some potted greenery—you'll be inspired to grab a great read and unplug.
Related: 10 "Best in Class" Patio Pavers
Outdoor Kitchen
This stunning patio, which incorporates an outdoor kitchen, literally opens up the house and welcomes you in. The plumbing and electrical needs are easier to meet if you arrange the appliances against the home's exterior wall.
Related: Planning Guide—Outdoor Kitchens
Terraced Poolside
This swimming pool takes full advantage of the sloped yard, offering up expansive stone patios on several levels. The result is a seamless transition between land and water.
Related: 10 "Dream Worthy" Swimming Pools
Salvaged Surface
Aluminum letters artfully scattered among salvaged pieces of slate add to the relaxed, modern style of this circular patio.
Related: Planning Guide—Patios
For More...
For more outdoor decor ideas, check out:
10 Smart Storage Solutions for Your Deck, Porch, or Patio
10 Inventive Ideas for a Perfect Porch
The Right Path: 10 Wonderful Walkway Designs
Don't Miss!
If you have the money to hire a handyman for every household woe, go ahead. But if you want to hang on to your cash and exercise some self-sufficiency, check out these clever products that solve a million and one little problems around the house. Go now!
