6 Dramatic Patio Transformations: From Slabs to Outdoor Sanctuaries

A patio can be far more than a concrete pad. These six makeovers reveal how thoughtful design solves site challenges while creating stylish, livable outdoor rooms.

1. Asian-Inspired Retreat for Dog and Owner — Washington, D.C.

Designer: Jennifer Horn, JHLA

Before: A splashing fountain and loose-pattern bluestone made the patio feel cramped; the homeowner's black Lab trampled ground-level plantings.

After: Thermal-finish bluestone in a running-bond pattern creates cohesion and dog-friendly footing. A linear recirculating water feature runs the patio's length, doubling as a protective moat for plantings. Vines and ferns spill from wood planters; an ipe fence adds privacy and a clean backdrop.

Design: JHLA | Jennifer Horn Landscape Architecture

2. Family-Friendly Terraced Garden — Cathedral Heights, D.C.

Designer: Mark White, GardenWise

Before: A sloped, poorly planned backyard with a patio stranded between house and garage.

After: Grading created two level terraces. The upper patio gained a fireplace, seat wall, and crisscross brick-and-bluestone paving. The fireplace, framed by garage windows and a raised planter, becomes a focal point. Evergreen plantings provide year-round enclosure.

Design: GardenWise

3. Lush Living on a Former Parking Spot — San Francisco Mission District

Designer: Beth Mullins, Growsgreen Landscape Design

Before: Cracked concrete pad in a backyard with underground parking.

After: A raised ipe deck and lower concrete-paver patio create two distinct zones, making the space feel larger. Built-in planters with succulents and grasses serve as guardrails. Dwarf mondo grass fills paver joints, tolerating foot traffic.

Design: Growsgreen Landscape Design

4. Industrial-Modern Reconfiguration — South Seattle

Designer: Mark S. Garff

Before: An overscaled deck with awkward circulation—forcing guests through gatherings to reach lower garden stairs.

After: Railings removed; staircase relocated to the house side, opening the deck to the yard. Extra-wide steel-framed steps descend to a permeable bluestone-and-gravel patio. Cedar planters triple as railings, barriers, and seating.

Design: Mark S. Garff, Landscape Architect

5. Circular Brick "Labyrinth" — Brooklyn Heights, NYC

Designers: Sean Lewis & Jesse Terzi, New Eco Landscapes

Before: Cracked concrete, cobblestone wall, and decrepit features behind a townhouse abutting a church.

After: A circular brick pattern echoes the home's facade while referencing the owners' labyrinth wish. Tiered steel planters complement metal stairs and a balcony. Movable seating clears space for dogs.

Design: New Eco Landscapes

6. Front-Yard Sanctuary on a Busy Street — Brentwood, LA

Designer: Kurt Krueger Architects

Before: Limited backyard; exposed front yard on a heavy-traffic street.

After: The front lawn became a private patio with tile paving, privacy fence, sliding sunshades, bubbling fountain, and ambient lighting—usable day or night, shielded from the street.

Design: Kurt Krueger Architects