From small backyards in the city to larger plots in the suburbs, backyard patios are the perfect way to get outdoors and enjoy time with your friends and family. At Houzz, we’ve found that with so many different shapes, sizes, and styles, designing a backyard patio that is right for your home can be difficult. If you’re working on a full backyard renovation or simply overhauling that patio, we’ve put together a few tips and a bit of inspiration to help you come up with the perfect backyard design ideas.

Design a Patio Where You Can Entertain

Backyard patios are perfect for entertaining! If cost and maintenance are particularly important for you, then poured concrete slabs are the best option. These are easy to install and can be cleaned after the winter months with a leaf blower and a power washer. If you want to add more texture and depth to your backyard patio, then pavers are also a great option. These come in many different sizes, shapes and styles. If you have a large backyard, then a composite or natural wood deck will give you the most space and create a platform for you to enjoy the view around your neighborhood.

Protect Your Patio from Poor Weather

There are many different ways that you can cover a deck or patio to shelter you from the elements during any season. A pergola is a great way to provide shade without blocking out all the sunlight. You can use vining plants and flowers like bougainvillea, honeysuckle or climbing roses to provide more shade and create an enjoyable fragrance when the flowers are in bloom. For temporary coverage, outdoor shade sails and awnings can be easily setup and taken down during the winter months and look beautiful in a contemporary backyard.

Plant Low Maintenance Plants

Unless you’re a plant enthusiast or you have a regular crew to take care of your landscaping, low maintenance plants will complement your patio and make it easier for you to enjoy a little bit of nature at the same time. When deciding on which plants to put around your patio, make sure to reference Plant Hardiness Zones. If you like to dabble in homesteading, then you can even consider planting herbs like thyme and rosemary.

Design a Space to Lounge with Friends

At Houzz, our favorite backyard patio ideas center around a cozy outdoor fire. You can install a firepit close to your outdoor dining area to keep your guests warm late at night. If you have a fair amount of space in your backyard, then consider installing a separate firepit area where you can lounge after dinner. For a small backyard patio, a freestanding firepit is a great option. Because you can move it when it’s not in use.

Before installing your backyard patio, create a sketch of the layout and use stakes and cords to visualize your plan of action. If overhauling your backyard seems like a major project, then enlist the help of a landscape architect and designer to bring your backyard patio ideas to life!