Patios 87 Ideabooks

As summer winds down, back-to-school sales hit the stores, and there's never a better time to reevaluate your deck or patio for a little upgrade. Two fabulous reasons to start planning right now: *Your outdoor spaces are fresh in your mind. ... more »

When summer's in full swing, there is nothing Europeans like to do more than get outside, soak up some sunshine and enjoy some al fresco dining. No matter how small their home might be (and European homes often are quite small) you will always find Europeans... more »

Today's advancements in pool patio materials have eliminated the plain concrete patios so many of us grew up with. Now, a pool patio can dramatically improve your home's landscape design. The choices are endless, but I've covered some of my favorites... more »

The perfect outdoor entertaining space is all about comfort, and having just the right amount of shade or sun can make all the difference. Don't look only for practicality — shade your patio in style! If you're planning on hosting dinner parties and... more »

When midsummer heat waves hit, even some sun worshippers begin begging for shade. Instead of forcing family dinners and lazy afternoons indoors, outfit your garden, deck or patio with an umbrella. This everyday item can make all the difference when it... more »

In any room, indoors or out, lighting is a subtle but crucial way to set the mood and style. Hanging lanterns are a wonderful choice for outdoor entertaining areas that can feel both classic and contemporary. Just as a chandelier welcomes you to a home,... more »

There's something very tranquil and compelling about stones and glass swirling across the ground, creating beautifully patterned mosaics. The ripples of color and texture bring so much life to the surface of a barren patio, and the most glorious part... more »

If you have a boring backyard spot, a spacious roof deck or even a blah driveway and you like playing chess, consider a supersize set that you can enjoy outdoors. I never learned how to play chess, so I get very impressed when I see a set out; it makes... more »

Outdoor spaces benefit from the same design philosophy as our interiors: Add the unexpected, keep it fun and reimagine the space. From creative display techniques to sumptuous texture and color and unusual lighting, these outdoor spaces are exercises... more »

With summer in full swing, it's natural to want to spend more time outdoors. If you live on sprawling acreage without another person in sight, then worrying about maintaining your privacy probably isn't high on your priority list. For the rest of us,... more »

On July 4, many Americans head to a barbecue or a park, or watch a Main Street parade, capped by fireworks. But let's suspend reality for a moment: Imagine what it would be like to stay home and have unparalleled access to sea and sky for fireworks. Oh,... more »

As our outdoor renovation plans heat up, the patio and path ideas are percolating. After settling on brick as our material of choice, who knew we'd then have to select the pattern in which the brick is laid? When designing... more »

One thing is for sure this summer: Color is in. Bright neons that create eye-catching statements are all over the runway and the home. It’s easy to feel hesitant about updating your patio with current trends — especially if you use the space for only... more »

Enjoy your yard like you'd enjoy a resort this summer. If you can't afford to get to Thailand or Spain, transform your backyard to bring those countries to you. A small garden, patio, loggia, porch, balcony or deck can all take on an international look.... more »

Adding two or three new colors to your furniture and outdoor decor can completely change the look of your yard. Consider one of these winning combinations for drama and happiness in your outdoor living space. more »