Patio ideas, judged by what is under them

1. Interlocking concrete pavers

Interlocking pavers are units on a sand bed over a compacted base, locked by joint sand and an edge restraint.

Works best when: you want a patio that flexes with frost and can be lifted and relaid if a section settles.

What it takes: the ICPI sequence above. Our hardscape base specification explains what to ask for.

In the scope: base material and compacted depth, edge restraint type, paver product, pattern, joint sand type and slope. Use the paver calculator for quantity.

2. Poured concrete slab

A poured slab is one continuous surface, usually broom-finished, with control joints to guide cracking.

Works best when: the shape is simple and the yard is flat.

What it takes: a compacted base, forms, reinforcement as specified, control joints and a cure period.

In the scope: slab thickness, base, reinforcement, joint spacing, finish and slope.

3. Stamped or colored concrete

Stamped concrete is a poured slab pressed with a texture to mimic stone or pavers.

Works best when: you want a patterned look as one slab.

What it takes: the same base and slab work as plain concrete plus color, stamping and a sealer that is reapplied over time.

In the scope: pattern, color method, sealer and resealing schedule, and how cracks are handled. Our concrete patio ideas go further.

4. Flagstone on a gravel or concrete base

Flagstone is irregular natural stone laid dry on gravel or mortared to a slab.

Works best when: you want a natural, uneven look and accept some variation underfoot.

What it takes: for dry-laid, a compacted base and screenings; for mortared, a concrete slab first.

In the scope: stone type and thickness, dry-laid or mortared, base, joint material.

5. Gravel patio

Pea gravel or crushed stone over a compacted base, held by edging.

Works best when: you want a lower build cost and good drainage. Chairs sink in loose pea gravel more than in compacted crushed stone.

What it takes: fabric, base, top layer and firm edging. The gravel calculator gives volume.

In the scope: gravel type, base depth, fabric and edging.

6. Permeable paver patio

Permeable pavers have wider joints filled with small stone so rain passes through into an open-graded base.

Works best when: water ponds on the site or local rules limit hard surface.

What it takes: a deeper open-graded stone base that stores water, and joint stone rather than sand.

In the scope: base depth and stone gradation, joint aggregate, outlet if any, and maintenance of joints.

7. Curved patio edge

A curved edge softens the meeting of patio and lawn.

Works best when: the house is boxy or the yard is irregular.

What it takes: more cutting for pavers or more forming for concrete, and flexible edge restraint.

In the scope: the curve drawn on the plan, cut allowance and edge restraint.

8. Two-level patio

Two levels separated by a step split dining from lounging.

Works best when: the yard falls gently away from the house.

What it takes: a seat wall or step unit between levels, each level with its own base and drainage.

In the scope: level heights, step detail, wall product and drainage at the low edge.

9. Patio with seat wall

A seat wall along one edge gives fixed seating and retains a small grade change.

Works best when: you want seating without more furniture, or the patio needs a low edge on the uphill side.

What it takes: a compacted base under the wall, block or stone, and a cap at seat height.

In the scope: wall height, length, cap, and drainage behind if it holds soil.

10. Wraparound patio along the house

A narrow patio running along the back wall connects doors and leads to a wider seating area.

Works best when: there are several back doors or the yard is shallow.

What it takes: a slope away from the foundation along its whole length and attention to downspouts.

In the scope: width, slope away from the house, and how downspouts are handled. See drainage and grading.

11. Detached patio at the far end of the yard

A patio away from the house becomes a destination, reached by a path.

Works best when: the best sun, shade or view is away from the house.

What it takes: the same base as any patio plus a path. See walkway ideas.

In the scope: patio and path as separate line items, with base for each.

12. Patio under a pergola

A pergola over the patio adds shade.

Works best when: the patio faces strong afternoon sun.

What it takes: post footings planned before the patio is laid, so posts do not sit on pavers.

In the scope: footing locations and whether the hardscaper or carpenter places them.

13. Patio with a fire pit

A built-in fire pit makes the patio usable into cool evenings.

Works best when: local fire rules allow it at the distance available. See fire pit ideas.

What it takes: a non-combustible surround and clearance from the house; gas lines go to a licensed gas fitter.

In the scope: pit product, liner, clearance and any gas work.

14. Patio framed by planting beds

Beds around the patio edge soften it and screen views.

Works best when: the patio sits in open lawn and feels exposed.

What it takes: bed preparation, plants spaced for mature size, edging between bed and patio.

In the scope: bed outline, plant list, edging. See planting and garden beds.

15. Patio with low-voltage lighting

Low-voltage lights in steps, walls or beds make the patio usable after dark.

Works best when: you sit outside in the evening.

What it takes: conduit or cable run before the patio is laid, a transformer and fixtures; new outlets are a licensed electrician’s job.

In the scope: fixture locations, sleeves under the patio, transformer and outlet work.

16. Brick patio

A clay brick patio suits traditional and older houses, and its small units handle slight settling without obvious cracks. It weathers to a softer color over time and suits gardens with brick walls or chimneys to match. Build note: use paving-grade brick, not wall brick, on a compacted base, sand bed and edge restraint.

17. Porcelain paver patio

Porcelain pavers resist stains from grease, wine and leaves, and hold their color in strong sun. They suit modern houses and patios next to an outdoor kitchen where spills are frequent. Build note: mortar-set them on a concrete slab or lay them on adjustable pedestals, following the maker’s system.

18. Travertine patio

Travertine is a natural stone with a pitted, honed surface that stays relatively cool underfoot in sun. It suits pool surrounds and Mediterranean-style houses in warm climates. Build note: lay on a sound base or slab and seal according to the supplier, since the stone is porous.

19. Bluestone patio

Bluestone gives a formal natural-stone surface in cut rectangles or irregular pieces, with blue-gray to lilac tones. It suits colonial and Northeastern houses where the stone is quarried locally. Build note: dry-lay it on a compacted base with stone dust, or mortar it to a concrete slab for a fixed surface.

20. Exposed aggregate concrete

Exposed aggregate concrete shows the stones in the mix for a textured, slip-resistant finish. It suits pool decks, sloped patios and families wanting a durable surface with more grip than broom-finished concrete. Build note: hire a concrete contractor experienced with the washing and timing the finish requires.

21. Decomposed granite patio

A decomposed granite patio packs firm and has a natural, sandy look in dry, informal gardens. It suits the Southwest, Mediterranean gardens and budget builds. Build note: use stabilized DG, compact it in layers over a base, and contain it with steel edging so it does not wash onto lawns.

22. Large-format concrete pavers

Large-format concrete slabs give a modern look with few joints. They suit contemporary houses and patios where a grid of large squares echoes the building lines. Build note: prepare a flat, well-compacted base, since large slabs rock on small humps, and handle them with lifting clamps.

23. Tumbled pavers

Tumbled pavers have softened, chipped edges for an aged, cobbled look. They suit traditional houses and cottage gardens where crisp new pavers would look too sharp. Build note: build to the same base, sand bed and edge restraint specification as standard pavers.

24. Wood-look porcelain patio

Wood-look porcelain planks give the warm appearance of a deck without rot, splinters or staining. They suit ground-level patios where a timber deck would sit too close to damp soil. Build note: mortar-set the planks on a slab or lay them on a pedestal system.

25. Recycled rubber pavers

Recycled rubber pavers give a soft, cushioned surface for play areas and around swings. They suit families with young children. Build note: lay on a compacted, level base and lock tiles together so edges do not lift and trip people.

26. Stained concrete patio

Acid or water-based stain gives color and variation to new or existing concrete. It suits owners with a sound slab who want a new look without replacing it. Build note: clean and prepare the surface, test the stain on a small area, and seal after staining.

27. Herringbone paver pattern

Herringbone sets pavers at angles so they interlock, which resists shifting under foot traffic and furniture. It suits patios near driveways and busy back doors. Build note: expect extra cutting at edges, and use firm edge restraint to hold the angled pattern.

28. Running bond pattern

Running bond lays pavers in offset rows for a simple, brick-like look that is quick to install. It suits long, narrow patios where rows can run lengthwise to stretch the space. Build note: align rows with the house or main view, and snap string lines often to keep courses straight.

29. Basketweave pattern

Basketweave pairs pavers side by side in alternating directions for a woven, traditional look. It suits brick patios at colonial and Tudor houses. Build note: use consistent paver sizes and lay out the pattern carefully from a fixed starting edge.

30. Circle kit centerpiece

A paver circle kit at the center of a patio frames a table, fire pit or fountain. It suits square patios that need a focal point. Build note: install the kit per the maker’s instructions on the same base as the surrounding patio.

31. Mixed-size ashlar pattern

An ashlar pattern of mixed-size rectangles gives a stone-like, random look. It suits patios meant to look like natural flagstone. Mixed sizes also hide minor color variation between batches. Build note: follow the paver maker’s pattern drawing so sizes repeat without obvious lines.

32. Diagonal layout

Laying pavers on a diagonal to the house makes a small patio feel wider. It suits narrow yards and townhouse patios. The angle draws the eye across the space. Build note: expect more cuts at edges and order extra pavers for waste.

33. Border and field pattern

A border of contrasting pavers around a field pattern defines the patio edge. It suits large patios that look like a single flat expanse. Build note: set the border first on haunching, then lay the field inside it.

34. Patio and lawn checkerboard

Alternating pavers and grass squares give a permeable checkerboard that softens a patio. It suits modern gardens and lightly used areas. Build note: put a compacted base under each paver and good topsoil in the grass cells.

35. Stepping-pad patio

Large slabs set in gravel with gaps between give an informal, open patio. It suits relaxed gardens and areas with drainage concerns. Build note: set slabs on compacted base and fill the gaps with gravel or ground cover.

36. Oval patio

An oval patio suits furniture arranged around a central table and softens a square yard. It suits families who dine outdoors often. Build note: use flexible edge restraint for curves and cut pavers carefully along the line.

37. Freeform patio

A freeform outline follows existing beds and trees and looks natural in informal gardens. It suits yards with mature trees and curved beds. Build note: lay out the shape on the ground with a hose and approve it before excavation starts.

38. Rectangular patio aligned with windows

Aligning a rectangular patio with windows and doors gives a framed view from inside. It suits houses with large back windows. Build note: measure from the house openings and center the patio on the main door.

39. Concrete curb edge

A poured concrete curb holds pavers in place and gives a clean mowing edge. It suits paver patios next to lawn. Build note: pour the curb before laying the field pavers, and set it level with the paver surface so mowers ride over it.

40. Steel edging

Steel edging gives a thin, clean line between a patio and gravel or planting. It suits modern gardens and gravel patios. Build note: drive the stakes into a compacted base and keep the top just above the gravel so it holds the edge.

41. Soldier-course border

Pavers set on end as a soldier course frame the patio with a contrasting border. It suits brick and traditional paver patios. Build note: set the soldier course in concrete haunching so it does not tip.

42. Planting strip edge

A planting strip around the patio softens hard edges and blends it into the yard. It suits patios surrounded by lawn. Build note: prepare the bed separately from the patio base and keep soil below the patio surface.

43. Raised edge seat

A low raised edge around part of the patio doubles as extra seating. It suits families who entertain large groups. Build note: build on a compacted base and cap at seat height, about the height of a dining chair.

44. Gravel apron

A gravel apron around the patio catches runoff and stops mud splashing onto pavers. It suits patios on flat lots with heavy rain. Build note: lay fabric and contain the gravel with edging between it and the lawn.

45. Stone coping edge

Stone coping along the edge of a raised patio finishes the drop with a clean overhang. It suits patios raised above the lawn. Build note: mortar the coping to a footing or wall and slope it slightly to shed water.

46. Lawn-flush mowing edge

Setting the outer row of pavers flush with the lawn lets mower wheels run along it, so no trimming is needed. It suits patios bordered by lawn. Build note: set the edge course level with the turf on a compacted base.

47. Timber edge

A timber edge suits rustic patios and gravel areas in informal gardens. It is quick and inexpensive. Sleeper-style timbers suit vegetable-garden patios. Build note: use ground-contact rated lumber, staked securely, and expect replacement over time as it decays.

48. Hidden plastic edge restraint

Hidden plastic edge restraint holds pavers in place while being buried out of sight under soil or mulch. It suits patios where a visible edge is not wanted. Build note: spike it into the compacted base, not loose soil, so it holds.

49. Raised patio with retaining wall

A raised patio on a sloping lot is held by a retaining wall on the low side, creating level space off the back door. It suits walkout and hillside homes. Build note: use an engineered wall above local height thresholds, compact the fill in layers, and drain behind the wall.

50. Sunken patio

A sunken patio set below grade creates an enclosed, sheltered space. It suits flat yards that need a sense of enclosure. Build note: provide drainage at the low point, such as a drain piped to an outlet, so it does not become a pond.

51. Patio steps to the lawn

Wide steps from the patio down to the lawn invite movement and double as extra seating. It suits patios raised above the yard. Build note: keep risers consistent and build each step on a solid base.

52. Split-level patio with planter between

A planter between two patio levels softens the change in height and adds greenery. It suits sloped yards. Each level can serve a different use, such as dining above and lounging below. Build note: drain the planter and build retaining walls on proper bases.

53. Patio ramp

A gently sloped ramp instead of steps gives step-free access to the patio. It suits households with wheelchair users, strollers or older relatives. Build note: keep the slope gentle enough to use easily and add a handrail where needed.

54. Patio with integrated drain

A patio with a built-in channel drain handles water on flat sites where slope alone cannot. It suits patios between the house and a garage or wall. Build note: install the drain at the low edge and pipe it to an outlet or dry well.

55. Terrace patios down a slope

Several small patios stepping down a slope create terraces for different uses. It suits steep yards. Each terrace can catch sun at a different time of day, and planting between them hides the walls. Build note: build walls and drainage at each level and connect them with steps.

56. Patio flush with the doorway

A patio set close to the door threshold reduces tripping and makes indoors and outdoors feel connected. It suits homes with sliding doors. Build note: keep enough fall away from the house and leave a gap below the sill so water does not enter.

57. Patio around an existing tree

A patio built around a mature tree uses its canopy for shade. It suits yards with a large tree near the house. Build note: keep excavation outside the critical root zone or use permeable methods that do not compact roots.

58. Patio over expansive clay

On expansive clay soils, patios can heave and crack as the soil swells and shrinks with moisture. It suits regions such as Texas and Colorado where clay is common. Build note: see our expansive soils research, use a deeper base, control moisture, and get engineering advice where heave is a known risk.

59. Shade sail over the patio

A shade sail stretched over the patio gives summer shade with a modern look. It suits patios with nowhere to attach a roof. Build note: set posts in footings sized for wind load and use stainless hardware.

60. Covered patio roof

A solid roof makes the patio usable in rain and strong sun, extending the season. It suits rainy and hot climates. It also protects outdoor furniture from weather. Build note: expect a permit, footings and flashing where it meets the house.

61. Retractable awning

An awning on the house wall shades the patio on demand and retracts in wind. It suits patios against the house that need occasional shade. Build note: fix brackets into the house framing and choose a wind sensor model on exposed sites.

62. Umbrella sleeve in pavers

An in-ground sleeve holds a large umbrella steady without a heavy base. It suits small patios where a base would take space. Build note: set the sleeve in concrete before paving, at the spot where shade is needed most.

63. Tree planted for patio shade

A tree planted west of the patio gives afternoon shade as it grows. It suits owners who can wait several years. Build note: leave room for the mature canopy and keep roots away from the patio base.

64. Louvered roof

A louvered roof opens for sun and closes for rain at the turn of a handle or motor. It suits patios used all year. Build note: follow the maker’s footing specification and have a licensed electrician wire any motor.

65. Screened patio enclosure

A screened enclosure keeps mosquitoes and other insects out of the seating area. It suits humid regions with insect problems. It also keeps leaves off the floor. Build note: build a frame on footings and check whether it needs a permit.

66. Bamboo screen shade

A bamboo or reed screen on one side blocks low evening sun. It suits patios facing west. It also screens a neighbor’s view at seated eye level, and the natural material blends with planting nearby. Build note: fix the screen to posts set firmly in the ground.

67. Patio under a deck

A patio under an upper deck uses the shaded space below. It suits walkout homes. Ceiling fans and lights can mount to the deck framing above, turning the space into an outdoor room. Build note: install an under-deck drainage system so the patio stays dry in rain.

68. Freestanding cantilever umbrella

A cantilever umbrella hangs from a side arm, so the pole does not sit in the middle of the table. It suits lounge areas where shade must move. Build note: anchor the base with weights or a sleeve rated for the canopy size.

69. Outdoor kitchen counter

A built-in counter with a grill turns the patio into a cooking area. It suits households that grill often and entertain. Build note: have gas and electrical lines run by licensed trades, and build the counter on a footing.

70. Built-in bar

A bar counter with stools along one edge of the patio adds a gathering spot. It suits patios used for parties. Build note: build on a footing and use counter material rated for outdoor use.

71. Pizza oven

A wood-fired pizza oven gives the patio a cooking focal point. It suits food-focused households. Ovens come as prebuilt units set on a stand or masonry base, or as kits a mason builds and finishes on site. Build note: pour a footing, keep clearance to structures, and follow the maker’s installation instructions.

72. Outdoor fireplace

An outdoor fireplace adds a vertical focal point and a chimney that carries smoke up and away. It suits patios with neighbors close by. Build note: build on a footing with a mason, and check local code for clearances.

73. Built-in planters

Built-in planters at seat height add greenery to the patio edge. They suit patios with no soil around them. They raise plants to eye level. Build note: drain the planters and build them on footings so they do not settle.

74. Wall fountain on the patio

A wall fountain adds the sound of water. It suits courtyard patios near a wall. The sound of water helps mask nearby traffic and neighbors, and a wall fountain uses no floor space on a small patio. Build note: have a licensed electrician add a GFCI outlet and conceal the pump line.

75. Storage bench

A storage bench holds cushions out of the rain. It suits patios without a shed nearby. It doubles as seating when guests arrive, and keeps toys, tools or pool gear out of sight. Build note: set it on a level base and choose a weatherproof lid with drainage.

76. Hot tub pad

A hot tub set into the patio needs a pad that carries its full weight when filled. It suits patios planned with a tub from the start. Build note: build the pad to the tub maker’s specification, and have a licensed electrician run the circuit.

77. Pergola posts set in the patio

Planning pergola footings into the patio avoids cutting pavers later. It suits patios where a pergola may be added. Even if the pergola comes years later, the footings are already waiting, and no pavers need lifting. Build note: place footings before the base and patch around them.

78. Outdoor TV wall

A covered patio wall can hold an outdoor-rated TV. It suits sports fans who entertain outside. Keep the screen out of direct sun to reduce glare, and place it where neighbors are not facing it. Build note: use licensed electrical work and mount the TV on a sheltered wall.

79. Built-in fire table

A gas fire table built into a seat wall anchors seating around a flame. It suits lounge areas. Gas avoids embers near cushions, and the wall cap gives a ledge for drinks. Build note: have a licensed gas fitter run the line and test it.

80. Outdoor sink

An outdoor sink near a kitchen area helps with prep and cleanup. It suits households that cook outside often. Build note: have a licensed plumber install supply and drainage, and plan for winterizing in cold climates.

81. Fragrant plants near seating

Lavender, rosemary and jasmine near seating add scent on warm evenings. They suit sunny patios. Night-scented plants such as nicotiana and moonflower add fragrance after dark, when the patio is used most. Build note: plant in beds with good drainage, close enough to brush against.

82. Container cluster on the patio

A group of large containers adds flexible planting that can be rearranged. It suits patios with no surrounding beds. Grouping pots raises humidity. Build note: use containers with drainage holes and plan a watering routine or drip line.

83. Low hedge around the patio

A low hedge of boxwood or similar encloses the patio and defines the space. It suits patios open to the lawn. It also gives a sense of enclosure. Build note: prepare the bed and space plants for their mature width.

84. Ornamental grasses along the edge

Grasses soften the patio edge and move in the breeze. They suit sunny, modern gardens. They add height without blocking views, and seed heads stay attractive through winter. Build note: cut them back once a year in late winter and plant in groups.

85. Herb planter by the grill

An herb planter near the grill keeps rosemary, thyme and basil handy for cooking. It suits sunny patios. A raised planter keeps herbs off the patio floor. Build note: give it at least half a day of sun and well-drained soil.

86. Vertical garden on a wall

A vertical planter on a wall adds green to a small patio. It suits courtyards with limited floor space. Herbs work well in it. Build note: fix a frame to the wall and run drip irrigation on a timer.

87. Ground cover between pavers

Creeping thyme or Irish moss between pavers softens the surface. It suits patios with wide joints and light foot traffic. Thyme releases scent when stepped on, and both stay low enough not to trip anyone. Build note: leave wider joints filled with soil rather than sand.

88. Shade-tolerant planting under cover

Ferns and hostas suit shaded patio edges under a roof or tree. They suit north-facing patios. Heuchera, hellebores and Japanese forest grass add color and texture where flowers are scarce. Water by hand, since rain may not reach under a roof. Build note: plant in beds enriched with organic matter.

89. Native plant border

Native plants around the patio attract pollinators and need less water once established. They suit owners who want wildlife nearby. It also links the patio to the wider garden. Build note: choose plants native to your region and plant them in drifts.

90. Small tree in a planter

A small tree in a large planter gives height and shade on a paved patio. It suits courtyards. Japanese maple, olive and dwarf citrus are common container choices. Build note: use a large planter with drainage and plan to water it often.

91. Climbing plants on a trellis

A trellis with climbers screens views from neighbors. It suits patios near property lines. Clematis, climbing roses and star jasmine are common choices, depending on climate and sun. Build note: set the trellis posts firmly and choose a climber suited to the light.

92. Edible plants around the patio

Blueberries, herbs and dwarf fruit trees around the patio make it productive. They suit sunny patios. Strawberries in planters and a few tomato plants in pots are easy starts, and fresh herbs sit within reach of the grill. Build note: give them sun and soil suited to the crop.

93. Hot-climate light-colored patio

Light-colored pavers stay cooler in strong sun than dark ones. They suit the South and Southwest. Dark pavers can get too hot for bare feet and pets in summer, while lighter colors reflect more sunlight. Build note: test samples in full sun before choosing a color.

94. Freeze-thaw patio

In freeze-thaw climates, segmental pavers flex with ground movement better than rigid slabs, which can crack. They suit the Midwest and Northeast. Individual pavers can be relaid if needed. Build note: build the base deep enough for local frost conditions.

95. Rainy-climate permeable patio

In wet regions, permeable pavers let rain soak in instead of pooling. They suit the Pacific Northwest and Southeast. They also reduce runoff into storm drains and help prevent puddles that freeze in winter. Build note: build an open-graded stone base that stores water.

96. Coastal patio with salt-resistant materials

Near the coast, dense stone and corrosion-resistant fixings hold up to salt air. They suit waterfront properties. Avoid soft, porous stone that spalls as salt crystals form inside it, and rinse the patio after storms. Build note: seal stone where the supplier advises and use stainless hardware.

97. Wildfire-area non-combustible patio

In wildfire zones, a non-combustible patio near the house helps meet defensible-space rules and keeps embers off wooden decks. It suits fire-prone regions. Gravel or stone around it helps too. Build note: follow state defensible-space rules; see our defensible space research.

98. Snow-country patio with drainage

In snowy regions, slope and drainage stop meltwater refreezing on the patio surface. It suits northern homes. Keep a shovel path clear. Build note: slope the surface away from the house and add a drain at the low edge.

99. Desert patio with shade structure

In deserts, shade is essential to make the patio usable in summer. It suits the Southwest. Shade sails, pergolas with shade cloth or a solid roof all work. Pair it with light-colored paving and misting for evening use. Build note: plan shade structure footings together with the patio base.

100. Humid-climate patio

In humid regions, shaded surfaces grow algae and moss. It suits the Southeast and Gulf Coast. Pressure washing once or twice a year keeps it clean, and porous stone may need sealing to reduce staining. Build note: choose a sunny site where possible and ensure good drainage.

101. Windy-site patio with windbreak

On windy sites, a screen or hedge shelters seating. It suits hilltop and plains properties. Slatted or mesh screens slow wind better than solid walls, which create turbulence on the sheltered side. Build note: place the windbreak on the prevailing wind side, set back from the patio.

102. Mountain patio with radiant heat

At altitude, a heated patio melts snow and extends the season. It suits mountain homes. Radiant systems are much easier to install in new construction than to add under an existing patio. Build note: have radiant heating installed by licensed trades before the surface goes down.

103. Mild-climate year-round patio

In mild regions, a patio can be the main outdoor room all year. It suits coastal California. An outdoor rug and a sheltered dining area turn it into an extension of the house. Build note: add cover for rain and a heater for cool evenings.

104. Monsoon-ready patio

In regions with summer monsoon storms, a patio needs to shed sudden heavy rain fast. It suits Arizona and New Mexico. Channel drains along the edge help. Build note: slope the surface and size drains for intense downpours.