36 Patio Cover Ideas That Make Outdoor Living a Breeze | Architectural Digest

Oct 16, 2024

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A dreamy patio setup expands the functional footprint of your house by making an area akin to an outdoor living room. Work the appropriate patio cover ideas into your design scheme and that alfresco space becomes a weather-resistant oasis. “Shade covers can provide protection from the hot afternoon sun or visually divide a patio into ‘rooms,’ but keep in mind that they may affect how you plan for patio size,” explains Annie Thornton, outdoor design expert at Houzz. For those working with tighter patio spaces, options like movable umbrellas don’t take up much floor space compared to the shade they provide. “If you’d like to add a pergola or mounts for shade sails, you may need to budget more patio space to accommodate the posts or expand the shade structure’s size,” Thornton says.

Whether you’re aiming to spend quiet time in the shade or entertain family and friends with an outdoor dining oasis in a covered seating area, enjoy the beauty of your backyard from the comfort of your sheltered deck with our guide to patio cover ideas—complete with advice from experts on how to fashion the setup of your dreams.

There are various materials you can use to cover your patio, ranging from airier, more organic options such as outdoor fabrics, shade sails, and wood pergolas all the way to the more heavy-duty choices like aluminum and steel structures. You can also opt for awnings, canopies, retractable covers, or cabanas. “Retractable awnings, big market umbrellas, built-in pergolas, wrought-iron patio covers, and any variety of shade structures are available and they are improving year over year,” says Los Angeles–based landscape designer Andrea Scharff. “Patio covers also provide structure for fragrant vines that add a layer of beauty,” Scharff explains, noting that wisteria, roses, jasmine, and stephanotis are among her favorites.

Spherical lights hung from a pergola add a sense of dimension to this outdoor patio designed by Andrea Scharff.

“What’s wonderful about patio covers is that they allow for shade during the day and provide structure for gas or electric heaters to be affixed to in order to keep cool evenings toasty,” says Scharff. As demonstrated by this space she designed, pergolas also create the opportunity to hang pendant lighting. Annapolis, Maryland, architect Cathy Purple Cherry approaches lighting on a covered patio by asking: Do you need to have the ability to read at night? She employs two approaches to outdoor lighting. One strategy is for decor and ambiance—think chandeliers and wall sconces. The second is for true task lighting, like recessed cans in a built-in patio cover. Whichever option you choose, it should be switched separately and dimmable, Purple Cherry advises. “I would select a decorative fixture because of the ways it casts shadows and refracts light on space, creating interest,” she adds.

This poolside space designed by Christopher Grubb of Arch-Interiors Design Group feels all the more intimate thanks to the addition of a fabric cover that shades the dining area.

Depending on your yard, the idea of a pergola over your patio might feel structurally heavy. Christopher Grubb, an interior designer and founder of Beverly Hills’s Arch-Interiors Design Group, says the option can still work, especially when tented in an airy outdoor fabric.

“Outdoor fabric over the top softens it, tieback drapery with an extra detail-like edge banding gives it an extra element of interest,” he explains. “And rather than looking up at a solid fabric covering, consider sheer-pleated exterior fabric.”

A couple of umbrellas provide relief from the sun on this modern patio landscaped by Andrea Scharff, with the help of the home’s interior designer Stacey Copeland of Blythe Home.

“When choosing ideas for a covered patio, really think about the location, how the sun hits the patio and at what time, and the optimum use times,” advises David Charette, cofounder of Britto Charette in Miami. Charette says the covered patio doesn’t necessarily have to be fixed or stationary. “Maybe the right solution for you is to have a collapsible structure or a structure that’s nomadic and can be moved around with the sun,” he says. “This can add flexibility to your design and provide shade from sun and protection from rain.” Los Angeles-based Stacey Copeland, principal of Blythe Home, used large canvas umbrellas to create the feeling of an outdoor room for a client’s midcentury house. “Because the house is small, we took every opportunity to extend the living into the garden, creating shady pockets for lounging and entertaining,” she says.

A rustic trellis with a woven cover embodies lounging vibes.

“A trellis is introduced onto a patio as a way to help filter direct, natural sunlight,” Purple Cherry explains. “It provides some layer of shading, although minimal. A trellis is really more of an ornamental structure than a functional structure. If you like a trellis for its ornamental nature, consider installing a beautiful retractable awning above it to provide more substantial shading, if needed.”

A Choeff Levy Fischman Architecture + Design waterfront patio with an outdoor sunken living room offers quite a view and a space to chill.

A sunken living room is a way to add a midcentury modern twist to an outdoor space. Ralph Choeff, founding principal of Choeff Levy Fischman Architecture + Design in Miami, praises the approach for its ability to “create a resort-like living environment,” which is enhanced with a patio cover with durable Brazilian Ipe wood and cantilevered roofs that provide shade from the sun.

A patio area is all the more impressive when made multilevel, as this Cathy Purple Cherry space exemplifies.

“The fantastic thing about elevating a patio is that the steps themselves become furniture,” Purple Cherry says. In addition, putting a patio on a pedestal (quite literally) allows the view to be elevated as guest take in the adjacent pool [not shown]. Just make sure that the patio is deep enough to support all the furnishings for optimal effect.

As seen in this outdoor area designed by Cathy Purple Cherry, a timber frame adds a certain farmhouse-leaning charm. A similar look could be achieved with a wooden pergola.

“This is a timber-frame-covered patio utilizing Douglas fir tongue and groove ceiling as well as exposed fir rafters,” Purple Cherry explains, though she does have a word of caution for those hoping to add hanging lights outside, as the owner of this space did. When placing decorative chandeliers or ceiling lights in a porch, consider if there is a high wind factor, as you wouldn’t want your lights to swing out of control. Chains and tiebacks can keep light fixtures at bay, however.

A freestanding pergola with an organic silhouette can create a more welcoming pool-side environment.

“Poolhouses can be closed spaces or open pavilions,” Purple Cherry advises. An outdoor patio with a freestanding wooden pergola can offer shade and sun protection but also communicate a more relaxing vibe than a completely covered outdoor space.

Wood posts and beams were used to create this all-encompassing outdoor living area.

“The interior ceiling was finished off with drywall to give the entire space that outdoor-room feel,” says Kami Schaffner, principal designer and GC at Collective Design + Build. She explains that wicker pendants were chosen to accent the dining table and provide some ambient lighting to the backyard patio space. “The client also wanted to be able to use the space to barbecue and cook for their guests, so we added a grill, a griddle, and a panini press.” Schaffner also provided additional bar top seating on the right side of the space. “The center focal point in the outdoor area is the fireplace that has the interior lined with a firesafe painted tile.”

This home is located in Serra de Santo António, Alcanena, Portugal.

Laurence Beysecker, creative director at the Lisbon-based Maison Amarande, was moved to craft this abode’s outdoor setup as a love letter to its picturesque surrounding landscape—particularly the lush olive groves nearby. “Nestled between the gorgeous Serra de Santo António in Alcaena, Portugal, and beautiful olive trees, this project is an ode to nature,” Beysecker says. Her team was charged with creating a wholesome, elegant, and cozy outdoor entertaining space–including a covered patio area—for a Belgian-Portuguese couple who split their lives between the city and the Portuguese countryside.

Natural materials join the inside and outside.

“Natural materials and a toned-down color palette are the protagonists in the exterior (and interior) designs, along with a sophisticated selection of Portuguese and international design, lighting, and ceramic brands,” Beysecker says. From the deep green mosaics of the swimming pool to the patio’s wood and stone natural materials, she feels that the rich color palette helps create a peaceful dialogue between the exterior and interior spaces.

A motorized pergola is easy to operate and provides flexibility.

“This space features a large motorized louvered pergola to cover a portion of [it], which essentially turned this part of the patio into an outdoor room,” says Paul Mahony, senior partner at KGA Studio Architects. It’s a great solution for homeowners looking for a little flexibility in their patio arrangements; Mahony explains that this type of pergola is a versatile option that allows homeowners to bathe in the morning sun while still offering protection from the afternoon rain showers typical of spots like Colorado. “Opening the slats allows you to enjoy the sun, and with the push of a button the slats close to create a waterproof cover for your patio.”

An anodized aluminum pergola enhances architectural details and also provides a clean, contemporary feel.

A patio cover setup is best when it doesn’t create too much more work for you. “They’re made of anodized aluminum, so they’re essentially maintenance-free,” Mahony adds, explaining that there’s an option to add lighting and a fan, and the drainage is integrated into the system. “We worked with the manufacturer to customize the size and leg options to integrate into the home’s existing design for a solution that is autonomous yet integrated.” Mahony also notes that a multifunctional pergola can double the gathering space while also subtly enhancing the architectural details of the space, offering a contemporary feel.

This pergola adds beauty and warmth without breaking the bank.

Pergolas don’t have to be pricey. “A simple pergola like this one is easy to add to any existing patio as a way to provide durable shade over a wide area,” says Rafi Friedman, CEO at Coastal Luxury Outdoors. He notes that the structures are also easy to decorate with climbing plants or hanging canopies for even more shade cover. “These structures are durable, affordable, and relatively easy to build custom or from a kit.”

A screen porch can help to keep insects out of the entertaining space.

In this luxe project, Friedman says the paver patio serves to unite the distinct areas. The canopy has a lightweight aluminum frame. “This space provides a good transition from indoor to outdoor and is usable essentially year-round.” He also notes that the screen porch keeps bugs out and cuts down on heat from the sun. In addition, the heaters make it comfortable even on cool days, and the ceiling fan provides needed air circulation.

There’s really no need to go indoors considering all that this space offers.

Notice the wood-paneled ceiling, wall hangings, full outdoor kitchen, and even a TV on the far wall here. With this full-coverage treatment, as opposed to a pergola, you can enjoy an even more swaddled feel while taking in the fresh air—and keep electronics safe and dry. “We used cherry wood to get that beautiful hue on the ceiling, and we sealed it with an oil finish after staining to help it withstand humidity,” Friedman explains.

Covered spaces can have a variety of entrance door options, and can be located on the side of the home as well.

While traditionally located at the rear of a home, Jay Kallos, SVP of architecture for Ashton Woods, explains that these covered spaces are equally useful for accessing a side yard, making for unexpectedly intimate vignettes. According to Kallos, covered porches have become pivotal in the backyard design renaissance, seamlessly blending interior living spaces with the open air. “Sliding glass and accordion doors all but disappear, merging the comforts of home with the calm of your backyard.”

The right placement requires strategic planning to enhance the exterior space.

Kallos encourages homeowners to consider a covered patio in less customary areas of their property. Particularly if square footage is no issue, it can be helpful to think about what your ideal outdoor setup might allow you to do before landing on exactly where it should go. “Whether you dream of a cozy nook for morning coffee or a sprawling summer outdoor kitchen for alfresco dining, envisioning these spaces early—even before the budget allows for a full build-out—ensures seamless integration into your yard’s layout,” Kallos explains. “Strategic planning allows for you to place a patio anywhere on your property, both enhancing outdoor living and looking beautiful from the interior of the house.”

A freestanding pergola provides unhindered views

Pergolas don’t have to be attached to your house. “A freestanding pergola allows for four open sides and better airflow, [which is] not possible with an attached covered porch,” Kallos says. He recommends that folks start with a clear program outlining their household’s needs and desires for outdoor living. “Gather inspiration and design ideas from diverse sources—whether elegant Charleston gardens for small spaces or mountain retreats for locations where you have topography. [These] can all help you transform even modest spaces into expansive retreats.”

Pergolas can be painted to match other elements in the outdoor design.

“This minimalist structure supported by steel posts and topped with Douglas fir joists was created specifically to increase the footprint of the adjacent poolhouse,” says Kyle Dutton of the Houston-based Kyle Dutton Home & Design. “The main living room of the poolhouse acts as the anchor of the backyard and is fine-tuned for lounging and entertaining.” He notes that the pergola sits directly outside of the custom steel doors and is furnished with a living room set of furniture and decor, which “allows guests to experience the benefits of a family room by the pool.“ Another cozy detail? The gas fireplace.

This patio cover design creates an outdoor oasis.

In this clean and minimalist design, Venice, California–based designer Kim Gordon creates an oasis against a verdant backdrop of trees and grass. She uses a palette with organic tones and materials to make it both an extension of its natural surroundings and an inviting space to relax. The hanging lights—which introduce a few subtle pops of color—make the space open for use day or night.

Create separate areas for relaxing and entertaining outdoors.

In this design, Grubb’s goal was to craft an all-encompassing outdoor paradise packed with different lifestyle zones. Patio covers were used to fashion distinct areas. “We created various ‘levels’ for the different elements, which helped to add visual definition for the various zones.” Since the project took place during COVID, the owner wanted an outdoor dining table that also served as a dreamy work-from-home setup during the lockdown. “A row of hedges helps to complete the quadrangle, outlining the entire outdoor expanse while also creating privacy,” Grubb adds.

This pergola creates shade in another part of the backyard.

A lattice decorated with climbing vines and purple petunias adds a bit of greenery to this castle-style concrete patio.

You can enhance traditional exterior surfaces and adorn the patio as you would any other room in the home, says Paige Foss, architecture designer at Drees Homes in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky. For a simple DIY project, add lattice with greenery to further blur the line between interior and exterior.

A wooden pergola outlined in black trim adds strong architectural elements in an otherwise wild garden.

“The beauty is in the details,” says Rob McKay, chief operating officer at InStone, a wholesale stone distributor of thin veneer masonry products headquartered in Navarre, Ohio. Juxtapose structured architecture with natural outdoor elements to create a luxurious environment.

Etch Design Group knows that a firepit is one way to draw attention to an outdoor patio.

“It’s a good idea to create a focal point in covered patio spaces,” McKay recommends. “Often a firepit for a casual space, or a fireplace for a more formal space, will do the trick nicely.” To give the patio space even more purpose, tie in interior design elements like a vibrant rug that echoes the focal point, as seen in this project by Stephanie Lindsey, principal interior designer for Etch Design Group in Austin.

This backyard patio’s outdoor open kitchen and dining space is extra cozy and good for lounging thanks to the canopy of green leaves overhead.

“A pergola is a tried and true solution for outdoor dining area,” says Mark Cutler, cofounder of CutlersShulze in Los Angeles. Take advantage of the structure for light fixtures, or even some string lights, to further enhance the seating area.

The arch on the Cathy Purple Cherry patio ceiling adds flair and a sense of personality.

When designing a covered patio, don't forget to design the ceiling. “It's a great way to introduce texture and warmth to an otherwise simple design,” Cutler says. Opt for wood or even brick to play with patterns.

Think of a covered patio as another living space, one that caters to the outdoors.

A patio doesn't have to be just in front of a house. “The past years of quarantine inspired many to ask more from their yards,” explains Kevin Lenhart, design director at Yardzen, a custom landscape design service. “Suddenly, side yards, front yards, and even driveways became fair game for gathering spaces,” he says of gazebo-like structures and outdoor dining areas. Take advantage of design elements like an exposed-beam ceiling, especially if you’re interested in adding ambient string lights.

Sometimes the best patio cover ideas are also the simplest, and this sleek black prefab cover certainly demonstrates that.

“Prefab options abound to suit any design, ramping up embellishing details for traditional styles and eschewing them altogether for modern ones,” Lenhart says. Beyond their obvious function– creating breezy, shade-dappled outdoor spaces–pergolas are pieces of infrastructure. “Use them to mount heaters, ceiling fans, shade sails, wind screens, lights, or even televisions,” he suggests. With a solid roof provided by a freestanding prefab cover, you can quickly create an outdoor space that can be enjoyed rain or shine—no remodel needed.

A wooden structure wrapped in vines connects nature to the home, even if it is a modern patio.

Lenhart says you should let vines grow up the posts and slats of patio covers. “Let them imply a distinct space while preserving wide open edges and free-flowing circulation,” he says. You can easily tie in your garden design with your modern patio to make a smooth transition between an outdoor living space and nature.

For a modern patio that still embraces traditional silhouettes, look no further than Scandinavian design, as seen in this prefab cabin by Neo Hytter.

Scandinavian ‘hytte’ or cabins often incorporate square patios at their corners, open on two sides but covered for dining alfresco, protected from rain and wind, says Nina Edwards Anker, founder of Nea studio in Brooklyn, New York. “Usually the floors are wooden and raised above ground level,” she says.

A wooden terrace adjacent to the house and flanked by billowy curtains works as a cabana.

Expand the existing outdoor patio space by adding a wooden pergola coupled with a daybed or a sectional that can work as a cabana suited for lounging. Adding breezy curtains around gives it a Mediterranean feel that is accentuated if you add greenery to the space.

Architect Cathy Purple Cherry embraced classical columns to give this patio a regal yet inviting vibe.

Play up the home’s architecture when decorating an outdoor patio. If the house already has traditional elements like columns, use the design element as a backdrop. Adding a long table not only creates a dining area that’s available rain or shine, it gives a nod to a Mediterranean lifestyle.

Designer Cindy Rinfret gave the Mediterranean terrace a lounging vibe with wrought iron chairs, and pavers on an arched ceiling further enhanced the classic look.

A vaulted patio ceiling complements classic-styled pendant light fixtures and gives the outdoor space a sophisticated set up.

Use woven wood shades, such as those made from bamboo material, to merge nature with a nurturing outdoor environment and balcony dining.

If you’re looking for a shady solution that will still allow for a breeze and a tad bit of sunlight, woven wood shades will allow for just that. They’re also a good option if you like the idea of a fabric cover but want to maintain a natural look in your outdoor space.

Nothing says luxury like a canopy of green, allowing just enough cover for shade but still open to plenty of natural light.

Take advantage of greenery as a patio cover, especially if it’s something as beloved as wisteria. The flora contacts nicely against stained louvered patio doors and a black-and-white color scheme.

Lighten up the patio with louvered-like slats.

Embrace adjacent spaces for a covered patio in a side yard. A checkered concrete patio paired with a slats on a trellis adds an unexpected design twist and plenty of cooling shade.