Readers' Choice: The 10 Most Popular Outdoor Spaces of 2012
All in the courtyard, please rise — these favorite patios, yards and decks deserve your full attention
Vanessa Brunner
January 13, 2013
Houzz Contributor
From big backyards to petite balconies, outdoor spaces were a big priority for Houzzers in 2012. While these favorite photos show a diverse range of sizes and styles, each space is outfitted to make the most of its environment. Fire pits, luxurious lap pools and plenty of shading gave Houzz readers everywhere extra motivation to upgrade their outdoor spaces.
Here are the outdoor images added to the most ideabooks in 2012.
Here are the outdoor images added to the most ideabooks in 2012.
1. Beverly Hills back porch. This serene back porch looks like the perfect spot for sipping lemonade on a hot day. When saving this photo, Houzz readers noted the exposed stone surrounding the space, and the multiple seating areas.
2. Shaded seating in California. Sometimes a spot in the shade is all you need to enjoy the outdoors. This curved stone bench looks incredibly comfortable but still blends in with its surroundings.
3. Outdoor living on the East Coast. This winding pathway through a lush lawn brings visitors to a backyard haven. Leafy landscaping and outdoor lighting are just a few of the elements Houzzers liked.
4. Simple fire pit for Michigan summers. This classic fire pit mimics the shape of the octagonal screened porch connected to the home. Traditional Adirondack chairs in a glossy black match the exterior fixtures on the main house.
5. Ubermodern in Menlo Park. Nothing more than a set of lounge chairs is needed to enjoy this modern backyard space in California. The contrasting colors — red-orange wood, blue water and blue chairs — immediately caught Houzzers' eyes.
6. Stylish patio in Minnesota. This paver patio and small garden make a great outdoor entertaining space. Houzz readers saved this photo for its small-space inspiration and lush landscaping ideas.
7. European-inspired New Jersey trellis. Like a scene in Provence, the porch outside this New Jersey farmhouse has a distinctly European vibe. The wisteria-draped trellis lets just the right amount of sunlight filter through to the plush lounge chairs.
8. Pristine lap pool in Atlanta. This lap pool mimics the form of the adjacent deck beautifully. Its narrow shape makes it a fit for many backyards.
9. Secret pathway with a stunning view. A simple stone pathway leads to a perfect waterfront view. Fragrant thyme and beautiful Siberian irises complete this dreamy outdoor space.
10. Sunny entertaining in Southern California. Outdoor entertaining is easy with a setup like this. The simple dining set gets a boost from patterned pillows and rustic lanterns, turning the entire covered porch into an outdoor extension of the home.
Find inspiration in more outdoor images on Houzz
Find inspiration in more outdoor images on Houzz
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Some of my very favorite gardens that I've designsed ever are small courtyards with simple elegant plant materials that will age beautifully. It's transformational to add a few evergreen boxwoods with a couple focal points, a variety of ornamental plants for year long seasonal color, texture, form and fragrance.