— Ideas & inspiration
Patio
A patio is an outdoor floor zone, usually paved in stone, brick, concrete, tile, or decking, set directly beside a house or around a courtyard. It is defined by a hard surface, low seating or dining furniture, and often partial shade from pergolas, awnings, or planting. The look is typically simple and weather-resistant, with materials that can handle sun, rain, and foot traffic.
- patio
— References
References to explore
— The style
What defines it
Stone, brick, poured concrete, porcelain pavers, and timber decking are the most common choices, often with gravel or planted edges.
Neutral earth tones, warm greys, terracotta, sand, charcoal, and muted greens are typical, with natural variation in the surface finish.
Patios pair well with garden beds, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, sliding doors, pergolas, and built-in benches.
— Professionals
Who has already built it
- LoftRobejoiners · Guildford · 4 projectsView profile →
- Beneito Faurelighting designers · 2 projectsView profile →
- Lusso Stonetile suppliers · Stocktonontees · 7 projectsView profile →
- elizabeth bee interior deinterior designers · 4 projectsView profile →
— Explore
Keep exploring
— Questions
Frequently asked questions
What makes a patio different from a deck or terrace?
A patio is usually a ground-level paved outdoor area. A deck is commonly raised and built from timber or composite, while a terrace often refers to a more formal or elevated outdoor platform.
Which materials work best for a patio at home?
Choose materials that suit your climate and maintenance tolerance. Stone and concrete are durable, brick adds texture, porcelain is low-maintenance, and timber brings warmth but needs more care.
What should I combine with a patio to make it feel finished?
Add shade, lighting, seating, and planting to soften the hardscape. Built-in edges, outdoor dining furniture, and direct access from the interior help it feel like a true extension of the house.