21 Covered Outdoor Patio Ideas
Covered outdoor patios transform ordinary backyards into magical living spaces. Rain or shine, these versatile extensions of your home provide the perfect spot for morning coffee, family dinners, or weekend gatherings with friends. The right patio cover offers protection from harsh elements while maintaining that refreshing outdoor feel we all crave.
From simple pergolas to fully equipped outdoor kitchens, today’s options blend style with practicality. We’ve rounded up 21 incredible covered patio designs that combine comfort, beauty, and smart functionality. Get ready for some serious outdoor inspiration that might just have you reimagining your own backyard retreat.
1. Classic Wooden Pergola
Nothing beats the timeless appeal of a cedar pergola. This outdoor structure creates the perfect balance of sun and shade while adding architectural interest to your patio.
The thick wooden beams overhead filter sunlight into a dappled pattern below, creating a naturally cool retreat that’s still bright and airy. When draped with climbing wisteria or ivy, these structures transform into living canopies that change with the seasons.
Add comfortable seating, some string lights, and a few potted plants, and you’ve created an outdoor room that feels both elegant and welcoming.
Tips to Get This Look
Layer Natural Textures: Combine weathered wood, stone flooring, and living elements like climbing vines. This creates depth and visual interest while maintaining a cohesive natural palette.
Create Zones: Designate separate areas for lounging and dining. A sectional creates a conversation area, while a rustic table offers space for outdoor meals, making your pergola functional for different activities.
Light It Right: String lights woven through the pergola beams create ambient evening lighting. Supplement with wrought iron lanterns on tables or pathways for a warm, inviting glow that extends your outdoor time.
Add Softness: Weatherproof cushions in neutral tones provide comfort, while decorative pillows add pops of color and personality. An outdoor rug helps define the space and adds softness underfoot.
Incorporate Vertical Interest: Train climbing plants like wisteria or ivy to grow up the pergola posts. These plants’ provide shade, privacy, and seasonal color changes that keep your space feeling fresh.
Shop The Look
Pergola: Backyard Discovery 12′ x 10′ Brookdale Cedar Pergola
Seating: Pottery Barn Torrey All-Weather Wicker Square-Arm Sectional
Lighting: Brightech Ambience Pro Outdoor String Lights
Flooring: Travertine Silver Natural Stone Pavers
Rug: Safavieh Courtyard Collection Area Rug
Dining Set: World Market Natural Wood Liam Dining Collection
Planters: Crate & Barrel Dundee Weathered Concrete Planters
Accent Pillows: Sunbrella Cast Slate Outdoor Pillows
Lanterns: Pottery Barn Bristol Lanterns in Bronze Finish
2. Aluminum Patio Cover
The sleek, modern aluminum patio cover is the ultimate upgrade for contemporary outdoor spaces. These lightweight structures offer durability without the visual heaviness of traditional wooden pergolas.
With clean lines and a metallic finish, aluminum covers create a sophisticated shelter that withstands harsh weather while maintaining their pristine appearance year after year. Many models feature integrated LED lighting and ceiling fans, transforming your patio into a functional outdoor living room.
The minimalist design pairs perfectly with glass panels that provide partial sun protection while maintaining an open, airy feel. Unlike wood which requires regular maintenance, aluminum covers are virtually maintenance-free and won’t warp, rot, or become a feast for termites.
Tips to Get This Look
Go Monochromatic: Stick to a restrained color palette of grays, blacks, and whites for furniture and accessories. This creates a cohesive, high-end look that lets the architecture shine.
Mix Materials Strategically: Combine the aluminum structure with warm elements like wooden furniture or concrete flooring to prevent the space feeling too cold or industrial.
Layer Your Lighting: Install recessed LEDs in the cover itself, then add accent lighting at ground level and statement pendant lights to create depth and ambiance after sunset.
Embrace Clean Lines: Choose furniture with simple, geometric shapes and avoid ornate details or busy patterns which compete with the modern structure of the aluminum cover.
Shop The Look
Tropitone Cabana Aluminum Patio Cover System (customizable sizes, includes LED lighting package)
Article Seno Outdoor Sofa
Sunbrella Solid Canvas Outdoor Pillows
Room & Board Montego Outdoor Bar Cart in Stainless Steel
3. Vinyl Patio Cover
Transform your outdoor space with a classic white vinyl patio cover that offers both style and practicality. This timeless design features insulated panels to regulate temperature year-round, making it perfect for entertaining regardless of weather.
The beadboard ceiling texture adds architectural interest while recessed lighting and a ceiling fan create ambiance and comfort. Traditional columns with decorative trim provide structural support while maintaining an elegant coastal aesthetic. It’s a maintenance-free solution that creates a true outdoor room, complete with privacy curtains that soften the space and frame garden views.
Tips to Get This Look
Go All-White for Timeless Appeal: A monochromatic white palette creates a clean, sophisticated backdrop that never goes out of style. The ceiling, columns, and trim work together to form a cohesive look that brightens your outdoor space.
Mix Materials Thoughtfully: Balance the structure’s vinyl components with natural textures like wicker furniture and potted palms. This contrast adds warmth and prevents the space from feeling too sterile or manufactured.
Layer in Soft Elements: Outdoor curtains aren’t just decorative; they provide privacy and wind protection while softening the hard architectural lines of the structure. Choose weather-resistant fabrics in whites or soft neutrals.
Define Zones with Rugs: A weather-resistant area rug anchors your seating area and adds comfort underfoot. It’s an easy way to bring indoor comfort to your outdoor space while creating visual boundaries.
Invest in Quality Lighting: Recessed lights provide practical illumination, but consider adding string lights or lanterns for evening ambiance. Good lighting extends the usability of your patio well into the evening hours.
Shop The Look
Duralum Premium Vinyl Patio Cover System with Insulated Panels
Sunbrella Outdoor Curtains
Safavieh Courtyard Collection Indoor/Outdoor Area Rug in Beige/White
Kichler 6″ White Recessed LED Lighting Kit
Ballard Designs Beadboard Ceiling Panels
4. Retractable Awning
Transform your outdoor space into a flexible oasis with a motorized retractable awning that gives you control over sun and shade. This Mediterranean-inspired setup features a striped marine-grade fabric awning that extends with the touch of a button, providing perfect partial coverage when you need it and open sky when you don’t.
The wind sensors automatically retract the canopy during gusty conditions, protecting your investment while the terracotta tiles add warmth underfoot. The bistro dining area and lounge chairs create distinct zones for eating and relaxing, all tied together with string lights and colorful cushions that pop against the neutral backdrop.
Tips to Get This Look
Mix Materials Thoughtfully: Combine metal furniture frames with soft textiles for balance. The contrast between the structured awning, metal bistro set, and plush cushions creates visual interest without feeling cluttered.
Layer Your Lighting: Don’t rely on a single light source. String cafe lights overhead and add solar-powered table lanterns to create ambiance that transitions seamlessly from day to evening.
Use Planters as Space Dividers: Strategic placement of decorative planters can help define different functional areas on your patio while adding greenery. Terracotta pots with Mediterranean herbs or flowering plants reinforce the aesthetic.
Choose Weather-Smart Fabrics: Invest in outdoor cushions and pillows made with solution-dyed acrylic fabrics that resist fading, repel water, and stand up to sun exposure. The colorful patterns will stay vibrant season after season.
Shop The Look
Sunsetter Vista Motorized Retractable Awning with Wind Sensor (Navy/White Stripe)
Pottery Barn Riviera Bistro 3-Piece Dining Set
Article Svelti Lounge Chair Set
Ballard Designs Indoor/Outdoor Lumbar Pillows in Sunbrella Cabana Stripe
Hampton Bay Solar LED String Lights
Frontgate Medallion All-Weather Terracotta Tiles
West Elm Turned Wood Planters (Set of 3)
Sunbrella Fade-Resistant Outdoor Cushions (Mediterranean Blue)
5. Shade Sail Canopy
Transform your outdoor space into a modern desert oasis with overlapping triangular shade sails. This architectural statement piece not only provides essential UV protection but creates dramatic shadow patterns that evolve throughout the day.
The clean lines and tension cables offer industrial appeal without sacrificing the zen-like atmosphere. Perfect for hot climates, this setup pairs beautifully with minimalist furniture and drought-resistant landscaping for a contemporary outdoor retreat that’s both functional and Instagram-worthy.
Tips to Get This Look:
Layer Multiple Sails: Install 2–3 overlapping shade sails at different heights to create visual interest and maximize coverage. The varying angles catch light differently throughout the day.
Choose Desert-Inspired Colors: Opt for earthy tones like terracotta, sand, and sage green that complement the natural surroundings and won’t show dirt as easily as lighter fabrics.
Mix Materials Thoughtfully: Balance industrial elements (steel posts, tension cables) with organic textures like wooden furniture, stone accents, and natural fibers to avoid a cold, stark feel.
Create Zones: Define different areas within your patio using gravel pathways between lounge and dining spaces, adding purpose to each section of your outdoor sanctuary.
Shop The Look
Coolaroo Triangle Shade Sail
IKEA RUNNEN Outdoor Decking Tiles
6. Gazebo with Roof
Transform your backyard into a romantic retreat with a Victorian-inspired gazebo. These elegant octagonal structures create a defined outdoor room that feels both open and protected. The pitched cedar shingle roof provides reliable shelter from sun and light rain, while the ornate trim and lattice railings add architectural interest that simply can’t be achieved with a standard patio.
What makes these gazebos truly special is their versatility—they create an instant focal point that works equally well for morning coffee, afternoon reading sessions, or evening gatherings illuminated by string lights.
Tips to Get This Look:
Choose Classic White: Paint railings, trim, and decorative elements in crisp white to highlight architectural details and create a timeless, elegant appearance that pops against your garden backdrop.
Layer Soft Textiles: Add cushioned bench seating with weather-resistant fabrics in neutral tones, then incorporate a few patterned pillows for personality and comfort. The contrast between hard wooden structures and soft textiles creates visual and tactile interest.
Embrace Climbing Plants: Train climbing roses or wisteria to grow up strategic sections of your gazebo’s exterior. These plants soften the structure’s edges and create a seamless transition between the gazebo and its surroundings.
Add Ambient Lighting: String lights woven through the ceiling rafters create a magical atmosphere after dark. Complement with hurricane lanterns on side tables or solar-powered path lights leading to the entrance for a complete lighting scheme.
Incorporate Natural Elements: Position the gazebo to capture the best views of your garden, and bring nature closer with hanging ferns and potted plants arranged around the perimeter and entrance pathway.
Shop The Look:
Hampton Bay Harbor Gazebo
Terrain Hanging Boston Fern Basket
Sunbrella Linen Canvas Outdoor Cushions
Pottery Barn Moroccan Tile Indoor/Outdoor Pillows
7. Glass Roof Patio
A glass roof patio extension creates a stunning indoor-outdoor living space that’s usable year-round. These contemporary structures feature aluminum framing with tempered glass panels that flood your space with natural light while providing protection from the elements.
The seamless transition between your home and garden creates an expanded living area that feels both connected to nature and comfortably sheltered. Modern glass extensions can be climate-controlled for all-season use, with options for retractable screens and ventilation systems to maintain the perfect environment regardless of outside conditions.
Tips to Get This Look:
Keep It Minimal: Let the architecture do the talking by choosing clean-lined furniture and limiting decorative objects. A clutter-free space enhances the transparent, airy quality of a glass-roofed extension.
Incorporate Tropical Greenery: Large statement plants like monstera, fiddle leaf figs, or bird of paradise create a lush indoor garden feel without overwhelming the space. Their dramatic silhouettes look striking against the geometric lines of the glass structure.
Focus on Flooring: Select large-format porcelain tiles in neutral tones that flow seamlessly from indoor to outdoor spaces. The continuity creates a cohesive look and enhances the sense of expanded space.
Layer Your Lighting: Combine recessed LED strips along the frame’s edges with minimalist pendant fixtures to create ambiance when natural light fades. Smart lighting systems allow you to adjust brightness and color temperature as needed.
Consider Temperature Control: Install UV-filtering glass and motorized blinds or shades to manage heat gain and glare, which can be major challenges in glass-roofed spaces.
Shop The Look
Marvin Skycove Glass Box Extension System
Restoration Hardware Concrete Plinth Coffee Table
Marazzi Sistemn Porcelain Floor Tiles
West Elm Mid-Century Planters
8. Polycarbonate Roof Cover
Transform your outdoor space into a year-round retreat with UV-protected polycarbonate panels. This contemporary design marries form and function, allowing filtered sunlight to warm the space while providing complete protection from rain and harsh weather. The clean geometric support beams create architectural interest while maintaining an open, airy feel.
The transparent roofing material ensures your patio stays bright even on cloudy days, and the integrated gutter system handles rainwater effortlessly. It’s perfect for homeowners who want to enjoy their outdoor spaces regardless of weather conditions, without the heavy appearance of traditional roofing.
Tips to Get This Look
Mix Materials Thoughtfully: Combine the sleekness of polycarbonate with warm wood beams for balance. The contrast between transparent roofing and substantial wooden supports creates visual interest and prevents the space from feeling too clinical.
Plan for Temperature Control: Install wall-mounted heaters for cooler evenings and incorporate ventilation gaps to prevent heat buildup during summer months. This makes your covered patio truly usable year-round.
Keep Furnishings Minimal: Choose clean-lined, weather-resistant furniture that complements, rather than competes with, the modern structure. Neutral colors with perhaps one accent piece works best in these architectural spaces.
Add Strategic Greenery: Place tall potted bamboo or architectural plants to soften the geometric lines and add natural elements to the space. Plants with interesting silhouettes work particularly well against the transparent backdrop.
Shop The Look
TUFTEX PolyCarb Clear Polycarbonate Roof Panels
Article Teaka Outdoor Sofa Set
Crate & Barrel Dundee Planters with bamboo plants
IKEA Runnen Outdoor Deck Tiles
9. Metal Pavilion
The marriage of rustic charm and industrial edge creates an outdoor living space that’s both sophisticated and inviting. This galvanized steel pavilion features a dramatic standing seam metal roof with exposed structural beams that celebrate rather than hide the building’s bones.
The concrete flooring adds urban toughness while weathered wood accents and comfortable seating soften the space. A substantial stone fireplace anchors one end, making this pavilion usable well into cooler months, while the outdoor kitchen transforms it into entertainment central.
Pendant lighting and strategically placed ceiling fans ensure the space remains comfortable and well-lit from day to night.
Tips to Get This Look
Mix Metals Strategically: Combine galvanized steel with black iron accents for depth. Use similar metal finishes for lighting fixtures and furniture frames to maintain cohesion without being matchy-matchy.
Warm Up Hard Surfaces: Balance concrete and metal with natural textures. Add weathered wood tables, textured outdoor rugs, and plenty of cushioned seating to prevent the space from feeling cold or sterile.
Create Zones for Function: Designate areas for cooking, dining, and lounging. This pavilion works because it’s thoughtfully divided into spaces that flow together but serve distinct purposes.
Light in Layers: Don’t rely solely on overhead lighting. Incorporate pendant fixtures for task lighting, wall sconces for ambiance, and even string lights to create a warm, inviting atmosphere as the sun sets.
10. Fabric Canopy
Transform your patio into a resort-worthy oasis with a retractable sailcloth canopy system. Unlike permanent structures, these adjustable covers let you control exactly how much sun you want throughout the day. The crisp white fabric creates a breezy, Mediterranean vibe while providing significant temperature control underneath.
Steel cables provide sturdy support without the visual weight of bulkier pergola systems, keeping the space feeling open and airy. The neutral palette of teak decking and natural textiles creates a sophisticated backdrop that works with nearly any outdoor furniture style—whether you’re going for coastal casual or modern minimalist.
Tips to Get This Look
Layer Your Lightin: Skip the single overhead fixture. Combine string lights draped along canopy edges with freestanding lanterns and small table lamps for a warm, inviting glow that transitions beautifully from day to night.
Mix Materials Thoughtfully: Balance the softness of the sailcloth with harder elements like teak decking and metal furniture frames. This contrast creates visual interest and prevents the space from feeling flat.
Go Neutral, Not Boring: The strength of this look is its restrained color palette. Stick to whites, creams, taupes and natural wood tones, then add depth through different textures rather than bold colors.
Incorporate Potted Greenery: Large Mediterranean plants in simple containers add height and life to the space. Olive trees, lavender, and rosemary not only look beautiful but bring wonderful fragrance to your outdoor living area.
Shop The Look
SunSetter Retractable Awning in Natural Canvas
Restoration Hardware Aegean Teak Lounge Chairs
Dash & Albert Herringbone Indoor/Outdoor Rug
11. Bamboo Pergola
Transform your outdoor space into a tropical retreat with a bamboo pergola that brings natural texture and exotic vibes to your patio. Unlike traditional wooden structures, bamboo creates a distinctly bohemian atmosphere that feels both earthy and sophisticated.
The golden tones of natural bamboo poles create a warm canopy overhead, while allowing dappled sunlight to filter through—perfect for those who want shade without complete darkness. Add climbing vines like jasmine or bougainvillea to enhance the tropical feel and create additional privacy.
The beauty of bamboo is its versatility; it works equally well in contemporary settings as it does in more rustic spaces, bringing an instant vacation feel to your everyday life.
Tips to Get This Look
Layer Natural Textures: Combine rattan furniture, wicker accents, and wooden elements to create depth. The key is mixing similar natural materials in different forms for a cohesive but interesting look.
Create Dappled Light: Install string lights or hanging lanterns at varying heights to mimic the filtered light effect of a tropical canopy. This creates ambiance for evening gatherings while highlighting the bamboo structure’s natural beauty.
Add Tropical Greenery: Surround your pergola with large-leafed plants like monstera, palm trees in decorative pots, and trailing vines. Plants with dramatic silhouettes make the space feel like an exotic getaway.
Incorporate Bohemian Textiles: Throw in weather-resistant cushions and pillows in earthy tones with pops of jewel colors. Look for patterns inspired by global textiles to enhance the worldly, collected feel of the space.
Consider Flooring Carefully: Natural stone or wooden decking complements the bamboo overhead. If working with existing concrete, consider adding outdoor rugs with natural fiber looks to soften the space.
Shop The Look
Kouboo Bamboo Poles (Set of 25) – For DIY pergola construction
Anthropologie Indira Indoor/Outdoor Cushion
West Elm Large White Ceramic Planters
Wayfair Safavieh Natural Fiber Jute Area Rug
12. Cedar Pergola
Cedar pergolas bring warmth and architectural interest to outdoor spaces while providing dappled shade. This stunning example showcases the natural beauty of cedar with its exposed beams and decorative crossbeams creating visual rhythm overhead. The warm wood tones complement the flagstone patio below, while climbing roses add romance and color.
With integrated lighting and an outdoor chandelier, this pergola transforms into an enchanting evening retreat. The adjacent outdoor kitchen and stone fireplace extend the functionality, making this a true outdoor living room for all-season enjoyment.
Tips to Get This Look
Choose Quality Cedar: Western red cedar offers natural resistance to rot and insects, making it ideal for outdoor structures. Opt for kiln-dried lumber to prevent warping and splitting over time.
Plan for Plant Growth: When designing your pergola, consider how climbing plants will mature. Install sturdy supports for roses, wisteria, or grape vines, which add natural shade and seasonal interest to your structure.
Layer Your Lighting: Combine different light sources for ambiance and function. String lights woven through beams create a magical canopy, while directional spots highlight architectural details, and a statement chandelier serves as both light source and focal point.
Create Zones: Define different functional areas beneath your pergola, just as you would in an indoor space. The seating area faces the fireplace, while the dining space connects to the outdoor kitchen, creating a natural flow for entertaining.
Weather-Proof Your Comfort: Select outdoor furniture and fabrics designed to withstand the elements, but don’t sacrifice comfort. Deep cushions, outdoor pillows, and weather-resistant rugs make the space inviting and livable.
Shop The Look
Williams-Sonoma Home Outdoor Stone Fireplace Kit
Crate & Barrel All-Weather Wicker Dining Chairs
13. Lattice Roof Patio
Transform your outdoor space into a romantic retreat with a white lattice roof patio. This classic design creates dappled sunlight patterns across your seating area while providing partial shade that’s perfect for warm afternoons.
The geometric diamond pattern adds architectural interest overhead without blocking too much light, creating that magical in-between space that’s neither fully indoors nor outdoors.
When jasmine or climbing roses wind through the lattice, you’ll enjoy both fragrance and additional privacy. The combination of wrought iron furniture, pastel accents, and climbing plants creates a cottage garden atmosphere that feels both timeless and intimate.
Tips to Get This Look
Paint It White: White lattice reflects light rather than absorbing it, keeping the space underneath cooler while creating a bright, airy feel. Use exterior-grade semi-gloss paint for durability and easy cleaning.
Layer Your Greenery: Plant climbing jasmine or roses at the base of support posts, then train them to grow up and across the lattice. This creates depth, texture, and that coveted secret garden feeling.
Mix Materials Thoughtfully: Combine wrought iron furniture with softer elements like cushions in weatherproof pastel fabrics. The contrast between structured metal and soft textiles creates visual interest and comfort.
Add Evening Magic: Weave fairy lights through the lattice roof for a starry effect after sunset. Solar-powered options eliminate the need for complicated wiring, making installation a breeze.
Floor Your Guests: Install mosaic tile or painted concrete pavers below to complete the cottage garden look. The floors’ pattern compliments the lattice above it, creating a cohesive design that feels intentional and charming.
14. Patio Umbrella with Frame
A cantilever umbrella isn’t just practical—it’s architectural. This modern patio setup uses a large, offset umbrella that hovers elegantly over the seating area without a center pole getting in the way of conversation.
The umbrella’s clean-lined frame complements the contemporary furniture below, while its generous canopy provides essential shade for those sunny afternoons by the pool. The neutral-toned fabric blends seamlessly with the concrete patio and minimalist planters, creating a sophisticated outdoor retreat that feels like a high-end resort.
Tips to Get This Look
Go Oversized: Choose an umbrella with generous coverage (at least 10 feet diameter) to create a defined outdoor room feeling.
Match Materials: Coordinate the umbrella frame’s finish with other metal elements in your space for a cohesive look.
Layer Neutrals: Build interest through different shades of the same neutral color family rather than competing bright colors.
Add Ambient Lighting: Incorporate LED strip lights along umbrella ribs or string lights nearby to extend usability into evening hours.
Define Zones: Position the umbrella to clearly mark a conversation or dining area within your larger patio space.
Shop The Look
Crate & Barrel Outdoor 10′ Square Cantilever Umbrella
Room & Board Montego Outdoor Sofa in Slate
Article Tavola Outdoor Dining Table
Restoration Hardware Weathered Teak Lounge Chairs
15. Shade Structure with Curtains
Transform your patio into a dreamy coastal retreat with a modern shade structure featuring billowing white curtains. This elegant solution offers flexible coverage while creating that luxurious resort feel right in your backyard. The combination of structured canvas panels with soft, flowing fabric creates a breezy atmosphere that’s perfect for both sunny afternoons and intimate evening gatherings. The beauty lies in its versatility—close the curtains for privacy or open them to welcome cooling breezes and stunning views.
Tips to Get This Look
Layer Your Whites: Don’t fear using multiple shades of white and cream. Mix linen, cotton, and weatherproof fabrics for depth and texture without losing that clean, coastal feel.
Add Mediterranean Blues: Incorporate accent pillows, ceramics, and small decor items in various shades of blue to create that unmistakable Mediterranean vibe against the white backdrop.
Invest in Mood Lighting: String lights, lanterns, and candles transform your space after sunset. Look for solar-powered options that automatically create ambiance as the sun goes down.
Use Natural Materials: Incorporate wood, rattan, and terracotta elements to ground the airy whites. These materials age beautifully outdoors and add warmth to the space.
Plant Mediterranean Varieties: Olive trees, lavender, and rosemary not only thrive in sunny locations but also enhance the coastal European aesthetic with their silvery foliage and wonderful scents.
Shop The Look
Pottery Barn Sunbrella® Outdoor Curtains
Frontgate Palermo Modular Seating Collection
RH Weathered Teak Coffee Table
16. Patio Cover with Skylights
Transform your outdoor space into a year-round retreat with a glass skylight patio cover. This modern design solution floods your patio with natural light while protecting from the elements. The combination of natural wood beams and white ceiling panels creates an airy, contemporary feel that bridges indoor comfort with outdoor living.
The exposed rafters add architectural interest overhead, while the abundance of natural light makes the space feel expansive and inviting. This design works beautifully with minimalist furniture and lush greenery, creating a sophisticated outdoor room that feels like a natural extension of your home.
Tips to Get This Look
Mix Materials Thoughtfully: Combine natural wood elements with modern white finishes for a balanced, contemporary look. The contrast between warm wood beams and crisp white panels creates visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Prioritize Proper Lighting: Layer your lighting with recessed ceiling fixtures for overall illumination and hanging pendants for ambiance. Install dimmer switches so you can adjust the mood as natural light changes throughout the day.
Create Comfort Zones: Arrange furniture to create distinct areas for dining, lounging, and cooking. A woven outdoor rug helps define these spaces while adding texture and warmth to stone flooring.
Bring Nature In: Incorporate large potted plants with varied heights and textures. Choose tropical varieties with broad leaves that thrive in the abundant indirect light that skylights provide.
Keep Sightlines Open: Avoid blocking views with bulky furniture or tall accessories. The beauty of a skylight patio is the connection to the sky above—maintain that openness in your design choices.
Shop The Look
Velux Fixed Curb-Mount Skylights with CleanComfort Glass
Restoration Hardware Provence Sofa with Weathered Teak Frame
CB2 Zen Large White Planters
Sunbrella Textured Square Pillows in Canvas
17. Slatted Roof Pergola
Nothing transforms an outdoor space quite like a wooden pergola with its distinctive slatted roof design. This Mediterranean-inspired oasis creates geometric shadow patterns that dance across your patio throughout the day while offering just enough shade to keep things comfortable.
The weathered wood adds rustic warmth, while climbing vines soften the structure and blend it with the surrounding landscape. String lights intertwined through the slats create a magical ambiance when the sun sets, making this the perfect spot for alfresco dining or lounging with friends late into the evening.
Tips to Get This Look
Weather the Wood Naturally: Skip the pressure-treated lumber and opt for cedar or redwood that will naturally silver over time. Apply a clear sealer to protect the wood while letting its character shine through.
Layer Your Lighting: String lights are just the beginning. Add vintage lanterns on tables and pathways, plus uplighting on surrounding trees to create depth and drama after dark.
Mix Materials Thoughtfully: Complement the wooden structure with stone pavers below and terra cotta planters filled with drought-resistant Mediterranean herbs and flowers for an authentic feel.
Create Zones: Designate specific areas within your pergola space—perhaps a dining section with a wooden table and chairs, and a separate lounging area with comfortable outdoor seating and side tables.
Add Vertical Interest: Install simple curtain rods to hang outdoor curtains that can be pulled for privacy or sun protection, which doubles as a romantic design element.
18. Tiled Roof Patio Cover
Transform your outdoor space into a Mediterranean retreat with a terracotta tiled roof patio cover. These classic Spanish-inspired rooflines don’t just provide shade—they create architectural drama that elevates your entire backyard.
The warm, earthy tones of terracotta tiles complement exposed wooden beams for that authentic hacienda feel, while providing excellent protection from both sun and rain. Unlike canvas covers that need replacing, a properly installed tile roof patio cover becomes a permanent extension of your home’s architecture, increasing your property value while creating a luxurious outdoor living room that can be enjoyed year-round.
Tips to Get This Look
Embrace Earthy Tones: Start with a foundation of terracotta, burnt orange, and warm neutrals, then add pops of Mediterranean blue or sage green through cushions and accessories.
Mix Materials Thoughtfully: Combine wrought iron furniture with wooden elements and stone accents for authentic Mediterranean texture. The contrast between these materials creates visual interest that’s both rustic and sophisticated.
Create Zones: Designate separate areas for dining, lounging, and cooking to make your covered patio feel like a complete outdoor living space, not just a covered deck.
Add Architectural Details: Install decorative columns, arched doorways, or a stone accent wall to enhance the Spanish colonial feel. These structural elements make your patio cover feel like it’s been there for centuries.
Layer in Natural Elements: Incorporate potted citrus trees, climbing vines, and hanging plants to soften hard surfaces and connect your covered patio to the surrounding landscape.
Shop The Look
Restoration Hardware Catalina Lounge Chair
Pottery Barn Andalusian Terracotta Floor Tiles
Williams-Sonoma Terra Cotta Planters
19. Insulated Patio Roof
Transform your outdoor space into a year-round sanctuary with an insulated patio roof system. Unlike traditional pergolas or awnings, these climate-controlled coverings feature thermal insulation sandwiched between durable panels, maintaining comfortable temperatures regardless of outside conditions.
With proper installation, these roofs can reduce energy costs by preventing heat transfer and protecting your outdoor furniture from sun damage and precipitation. The minimalist design complements modern home exteriors, while the weatherproof construction means you’ll spend less time on maintenance and more time enjoying your sophisticated outdoor living room.
Tips to Get This Look
Choose Complementary Materials: Select roofing panels and framework in colors that coordinate with your home’s exterior. Matte black frames with white or light gray panels create a contemporary contrast that works with most architectural styles.
Layer Your Lighting: Combine recessed LED strips along the roof perimeter with statement pendant lights over dining areas. Add floor-level lighting to illuminate pathways and create depth in the evening hours.
Create Climate Zones: Install retractable glass walls or sliding doors to fully enclose the space when needed, and incorporate both ceiling fans and infrared heaters to maintain comfort in any season.
Blend Indoor-Outdoor Elements: Use weather-resistant materials that mimic indoor finishes, such as composite decking that resembles hardwood and outdoor fabrics with the look and feel of living room textiles, but which can withstand the elements.
20. Outdoor Covered Deck
This elevated covered deck transforms outdoor living into a luxurious experience with its sleek design and unobstructed views. The modern roof structure provides essential protection while maintaining an airy feel, and the composite decking ensures durability without sacrificing style.
Glass railings create a seamless transition to the surrounding landscape, making this the perfect spot for entertaining or peaceful evenings watching the sunset. The integrated lighting system allows the space to transition effortlessly from day to night, while the contemporary sectional seating creates a comfortable conversation area that’s both functional and stylish.
Tips to Get This Look
Go Borderless with Glass: Install frameless glass railings to maintain views while providing safety. The transparent barrier gives the illusion of more space and connects your deck to the surrounding environment.
Layer Your Lighting: Combine recessed ceiling lights, subtle LED strips under railings, and statement pendants to create depth and ambiance that transitions smoothly from day to evening.
Mix Materials Thoughtfully: Blend composite decking with metal accents and glass elements for a contemporary look that’s still warm and inviting. The contrast between materials adds visual interest and texture.
Create Zones: Designate specific areas for lounging, dining, and cooking to maximize functionality. Use built-in planters or movable privacy screens as subtle dividers between spaces.
Weather-Proof Everything: Select furnishings and materials specifically designed for outdoor use, which resist fading, moisture damage, and wear from the elements, ensuring your investment lasts for years.
Shop The Look
Trex Transcend Composite Decking
Viewrail FLIGHT Glass Railing System
21. Motorized Patio Cover
Say goodbye to unpredictable weather ruining your outdoor plans. Motorized patio covers with adjustable louvers give you complete control over sun, shade, and rain with just the touch of a button. These sleek aluminum systems can transform from a solid roof to an open-air pergola in seconds, letting you customize your outdoor experience instantly.
The integrated drainage channels handle unexpected downpours, while optional LED lighting extends your enjoyment well into the evening. Unlike traditional fixed covers, these smart systems can be programmed to respond to weather conditions automatically—closing when rain is detected or adjusting throughout the day as the sun moves across your space.
Tips to Get This Look
Go Monochromatic: Choose a single color family (like the sleek silvers and grays shown) for your cover system and furniture to create a cohesive, high-end feel. This creates a sophisticated backdrop that won’t compete with your landscaping.
Layer Your Lighting: Combine integrated LEDs in the patio cover with strategically placed floor lamps and candles for a resort-like ambiance. Multiple light sources at different heights create depth and warmth after sunset.
Incorporate Water-Resistant Textiles: Select outdoor fabrics specifically designed to resist fading and moisture. Quick-drying cushions and pillows in neutral tones with subtle patterns maintain the clean aesthetic while standing up to surprise showers.
Add Tropical Height: Large potted plants like bird of paradise or palm varieties bring natural elements to your modern setup, softening hard edges and creating visual interest between your seating area and the architectural lines of the cover.
Shop The Look
Struxure Pergola X (Motorized Louvered Roof System)
Restoration Hardware Concrete Planter Collection
Philips Hue Outdoor Lightstrip
CB2 Dune Taupe Outdoor Rug