Taking It Outdoors | 5 Standout Patios to Welcome In Summer

Is there any greater pleasure than having a perfect outdoor space at home? A patio for enjoying fresh air and unencumbered views is a true essential for luxury living—and the best outdoor spaces are complemented by convenient amenities. Whether lounging in the shade or entertaining over dinner, you’ll find plenty of summer design inspiration in these five remarkable patios.

A Private Neoclassical Residence in Houston, Texas

Walter Bering, Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty – Central Houston Brokerage

Within easy reach of Houston’s attractions, this stately, seven-bedroom home provides exceptional seclusion—ideal for enjoying peace and quiet on 9,800 square feet of heated patio and terraces. Set by the swimming pool and framed by Palladian columns, the spacious covered patio is a prime location for entertaining in style while surrounded by the privacy of nature. The exquisite exterior architecture is echoed indoors, with luxury details including de-Gournay wall coverings, Carrara marble floors, gold-plated hardware, and six fireplaces throughout the home.

An Enchanted Garden Villa in Brescia, Italy

Federica Cerini, Italy Sotheby’s International Realty

Enjoy lakeside living at its most elegant at this six-bedroom Italian villa, nestled in a beautiful garden. Located in Desenzano del Garda, near Lake Garda in Northern Italy, the property consists of two light and airy apartments, one of which features a dreamy vaulted attic with a terrace overlooking the lake. The grounds further paint the picture of la dolce vita—complete with an infinity pool and solarium, the secluded and covered poolside patio maximizes sophisticated outdoor living by the gardens, and acts as the perfect place for respite during sun-soaked days and for dining al fresco at twilight.

Distinguished Architecture in São Paulo, Brazil

Bossa Nova Sotheby’s International Realty

The covered patio found at this 7,000-square-foot, five-bedroom São Paulo residence combines the best of both function and style. Offering all the comfort of a living room, with the advantages of fresh air and lush surrounding greenery, it’s a clever indoor/outdoor sheltered space that can be frequented all year. Indoors, notable features include high ceilings, a home theater, and impeccable attention to detail throughout by architect Gui Mattos.

Tropical Waterfront Living in Cairns, Australia

Barbara Wolveridge, Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty

While it admittedly isn’t summer down under, this turnkey residence in Cairns’ Bluewater Estate offers resort-style living from the comfort of home no matter the season. Though the nearby Great Barrier Reef and sand cays are easily accessible from this property, outdoor living here is exceptional in its own right. With décor inspired by the surrounding tropical environment, and two-story glass panel windows that allow for ample light indoors, this property welcomes in the sun with covered outdoor living space adjacent to the magnesium swimming pool. Immaculately designed with natural finishes, this is the ideal place to spend the day barbequing, hosting, and unwinding.

A Mountainside Masterpiece in the Western Cape, South Africa

Chantal Botes, Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty

With magnificent panoramic mountain and ocean views, this nearly contemporary home has all the amenities one could desire from a property, including a theater, wine cellar, elevator, and top-end security system. In addition to the home’s dramatic exterior curves and angles, it’s the unbeatable scenery that makes this property special, with all four bedrooms offering incredible vistas. Relax on the sleek, minimalist patio just outside and cool off in the pool before a backdrop of glittering sea.

A stunning patio is a highlight for any property, especially when it’s designed for everyday enjoyment. From architectural details to tasteful décor, these luxury homes make a strong case for spending as much time outdoors as possible this summer.

Looking for more ways to enjoy the outdoors at home? Explore the history and resurgence of modern-day courtyards.