A larger backyard entertaining space doesn't mean starting from scratch. Enlarge your current setup with these inspiring patio extension ideas.
8 Patio Extension Ideas for Outdoor Living
Updated on Aug. 25, 2024
If you’ve been dreaming of a larger sitting area or entertainment space in your backyard, the project might be more attainable then you think. A patio extension increases the size of your patio by adding on material. Because an extension works off what you already have, you can skip the demolition step, and the cost is much lower than a full backyard remodel.
However, patio extensions come in a range of prices and styles — so we’ve gathered some of our favorite patio extension ideas for your consideration. Find out which one best fits your budget, lifestyle and vision.
What Is a Patio Extension?
A patio extension is exactly what it sounds like — an extension built on to your patio to make it bigger!
Traditionally, a patio extension involves adding on pavers, concrete, gravel or other material to increase the square footage of your outdoor living space. The design can also include a roof, a larger and more expensive construction project often requiring permits and HOA approval.
Either way, a patio extension creates more room for all those dreamy backyard extras like cozy sitting areas, a fire pit, or an outdoor kitchen.
How Much Does a Patio Extension Cost?
Like any outdoor project, the price of a patio extension is determined by the size and complexity of the design. The cost of a concrete patio ranges from $5 to $15 per square foot, while a paver patio extension can range from $8 to $20 per square foot. Of course, if you decide to DIY the installation, you’ll save money.
If your patio extension includes a roof extension, your price will be significantly higher. We spoke to stone and patio expert Sharon Penadelapaz for more insight. “For our average customers, the price of a covered patio extension can go up to as high as the mid $30,000 or as low as $18,000. Of course, the size of the porch and the upgrades customers choose drives the price,” says Penadelpaz.
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Covered Patio Extension
This gorgeous patio extension by @jstreeservicetx involved a bigger patio and a roof extension, creating a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor living spaces. The planked ceiling and columns and made of sustainable cedar; and is big enough to house a sitting area and outdoor kitchen.
What We Like About It: The covered design and sustainable materials promote a cozy gathering space while letting in loads of natural light and preserving the connection to nature.
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Small DIY Patio Extension
This DIY patio extension by @simaspaces was labor-intensive and included some demo work, but the results are stunning! They installed the affordable pavers in a basket weave pattern for added interest and texture. Pretty string lighting, both seating and dining areas and the privacy fence (with a clever built-in bench!) give the space an intimate vibe.
What We Like About It: Although this is a small outdoor space, it perfectly fits the home. “The extension shouldn’t be too small or too big in your backyard, you want to fit the proportion of your house while also fitting the needs of use,” says Penadelapaz .
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Hexagon Paver Patio Extension
This small backyard deck gets a big upgrade with the hexagonal paver patio extension by @rocfortescapes. “What we love about hexagon pavers is their versatility in design and color options,” a Rocforte Scapes rep shared. “They can be mixed and matched to achieve unique patterns and complement different styles of outdoor spaces.”
What We Like About It: The paver patio more than triples the usable entertainment space and offers a nice visual contrast to the existing wood deck.
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Semicircle Patio Extension
Sometimes your existing patio needs just a small extension to create the extra space you need. Seen here in this project from @lowcountry_paver, a small semicircle of pavers extends off the concrete patio, making more room for an extra sitting area. The semicircle shape gives the standard patio a more custom look and helps ease the transition into the rest of the landscape design.
What We Like About It: Even a small extension like this one makes a big impact in the overall outdoor space.
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Patio Extension with Sitting Wall
Here’s another paver patio extension from @omegastonenorthcarolina that expands off the house’s sun room and features a built-in sitting wall. The organic shape of the patio matches the shape of the connecting planter bed, and both help lead the eye into the rest of the yard. The goal of a patio extension is for it to look like it’s always been there.
What We Like About It: The sitting wall is a nice upgrade that helps further define the patio extension and provides convenient extra seating.
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Gravel Patio Extension
Another affordable and DIY-friendly patio extension material is gravel. Seen here, @floralhighground turns her unused side yard into a functional space with a gravel patio extension. Gravel can be shaped to fit any size or shape, making it a versatile material for patio extensions. This one is made with 3/8 in. blue chip gravel, which has a mixture of gray and blue hues for a modern look.
What We Like About It: Gravel patios are cost-effective, costing a fraction of the price of concrete, pavers, and decking.
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@atlmazzy DIY Patio Extension #diy #patio #diypatio #outdoorproject #backyard #backyardrenovation #modernpatio #fyp #pavers #patiopavers #doityourself #landscaping #patiomakeover #patioseason #patiodecor #diypatiomakeover ♬ You And Me – Lyus
DIY Paver and Gravel Patio Extension
https://www.tiktok.com/@atlmazzy/video/7056944268384161070
Watch as the DIY patio extension from @atlmazzy comes to life. After leveling the ground and installing a weed barrier, large square paver stones are laid in a modern grid pattern. Pea gravel is then used to fill in the empty spaces between the stones. This is a great option for those on a budget, and is easy to execute — even for beginners.
What We Like About It: It’s affordable, DIY friendly, and gives your backyard patio space a sleek modern look.
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@fixed_mycrown I love how my #patioextension project came out 🥰 #concreteoverlay #patiomakeover #viral ♬ It’s My House – Diana Ross
Concrete Overlay Patio Extension
https://www.tiktok.com/@fixed_mycrown/video/7127827339513220398
This concrete patio extension from @fixed_mycrown not only makes the patio bigger, but they also utilized a concrete overlay technique to make the concrete look like flagstone. This achieves a unique, natural stone look, but for the cheaper price of concrete.
What We Like About It: The overlay technique was used on the new patio and the existing patio, creating a seamless transition between old and new.
About the Expert
Sharon Penadelapaz is the owner of Omega Stone NC, an outdoor stone company with over 20 years of experience. The North Carolina company helps clients transform their outdoor living spaces with patios, fire pits, walkways and more.
