The goal is usually to provide a space to sit and entertain. Whether small or large, it’s typically the ambiance of the space that means the most. What do you want to create? A New Orleans courtyard with brick walls, twinkling lights, fountain and fragrance might be perfect for you.
Most are located in the back yard such as the terraced sunken brick courtyard that you will see. Creating different levels adds interest. In this case, the sunken patio also provided privacy. Sometimes a front yard courtyard is used to create a welcoming entrance, a focal point and balance with the architecture of the home.
Patios and courtyards are seating areas that can serve as a beautiful transition from inside to outside or as a stand alone feature in the landscape. Most are made of flagstone, bluestone or brick though patterned, colored concrete is also a nice choice.
See lower cost ideas here too such as a rustic woodland stone patio laid in sand, slate nugget gravel patio and pavers used over an ugly existing concrete slab.