Whether you have a tiny patio or a sprawling garden, our guide to creating a luxurious outdoor area will help you take full advantage of warm weather (and extend the outdoor hangs into the cooler months with the right design ideas). So read on for stylish backyard and patio ideas to try in your own spaces, from colorful tile design tips to minimalist dining nooks. Fresh air and fresh style ahead.

Locally-Sourced Materials

Designer Maria Augusta Luoro of Guta Louro Designs brought her neglected childhood home back to its former glory, and then some. Locally-sourced materials in the backyard allow this alfresco patio area to blend right in with lush São Paolo countryside. A covered grill and wet bar allow for outdoor dining without the fuss of all the plumbing upgrades required for a full kitchen.

Prepped For Parties

Prep your patio for outdoor dinner parties with a sound system. This one by Romanek Design Studio is also ready for a good time with plenty of lighting and extra seating. Pro tip: Choose speakers that are the same color as your exterior walls so they blends in.

Blooming Bougainvillea

Designer Madeline Stuart gave the backyard of this SoCal home by architects Wallace Neff and John Byers a dreamy garden oasis feel with antique accent lighting and plenty of bougainvillea. To warm up the patio even further, she added an area rug and opted for chocolate brown cushions.

Romantic Bench

A private little loveseat tucked away under the shade of the trees sets a romantic garden mood on this patio. Bonus points for matching the red and white fabric to the flowers climbing up the facade of the home.

All White Surfaces

An all-white patio keeps the area cooler when the sun beats down on it in the warmer months. It also allows the gorgeous florals to pop even more.

Storage Hooks

Designed by Nicole Hollis Studio, this modern patio is both chic and functional. The hooks make it easy to hang towels and hats, keeping the area clear of clutter on warm summer days.

Modern Materials

This gallery-esque patio designed by Robson Rak shows off so many striking materials, from the cool marble tiles to the light brick walls and terrazzo stool.

Wall Planters

Beautify a patio wall with an array of planters. Southern California–based LH Designs spruced these up with succulents.

Terracotta Tiles

The pool is the clear focal point of this majestic backyard designed by Nickey Kehoe. The deep aqua tiles and lush canopy of trees surrounding the home set the scene while the terracotta patio tiles and understated furniture contrast just enough.

Custom Fire Pit

ETC.etera made this outdoor fire pit extra cozy and stylish by adding custom cushions to the built-in bench. The printed fabric adds character, color, and, most importantly, somewhere comfy to sit around the fire.

Outdoor Shower

This patio has all the bells and whistles, from a chic, raised jacuzzi to a sleek, tubular chrome outdoor shower to rinse off after soaking.

Whimsical Tiles

You could opt for classic wood decking or you could take a cue from this Kingston Lafferty–designed patio and really make a splash. The whimsical tiles bring so much joy and buoyancy to the space while the modern sconces and cobalt blue table add a little edge.