Two overstuffed outdoor sectionals face each other in this elegant Phoenix backyard by Integrated Design, inviting leisurely conversation across a fire feature. Although the lounge could comfortably fit a large group, it still feels intimate thanks to the inward-facing arrangement, not-too-big patio and greenery enclosure.

Designer Jennifer Messina of dreamlife design took advantage of the natural grade change in this Mill Valley, California, backyard when creating the outdoor kitchen and dining terrace. She nestled the patio into a slope (with help from a concrete retaining wall) to separate it from other areas of the yard. She also covered the patio with an expansive shade pergola, which doubles as a mount for cafe lights and patio heaters.

Concrete, gravel and accents of wood, warm terra cotta and flickering candles come together to set a serene scene for dining alfresco in this Mediterranean-influenced backyard. The design, by Fati Fakoor Interiors, includes an outdoor kitchen with a sink, a grill and black leathered-granite countertops. The black chairs surrounding the trestle-style outdoor dining table pick up the countertops’ dark hue.

This generously sized deck with “disappearing” metal railings offers guests a prime view of the redwood grove and the slope below. Designed by Zeterre Landscape Architecture for the San Francisco Decorator Showcase, the deck also features an outdoor dining table and woven-back chairs. Strategically positioned poufs soften the corners of the deck and provide additional seating.

If you’re drawn to clean, uncluttered spaces, this design by Delaney + Chin at the Kips Bay Decorator Show House may spark inspiration for a courtyard of your own. A floor of pale gravel sets the stage for the other carefully chosen elements — a branch-like metal fire feature, bench seat and contemporary water bowl — that appear to almost float in the space. Upright cactuses, a pair of clipped shrubs and soft ornamental grasses add texture, structure and varying shades of green to the back border.

A private roof deck juts out from a living space of this San Francisco row house by Jamie Bush & Co., offering the homeowners a bird’s-eye view of the neighborhood. The deck decor is restrained, with only a pair of eucalyptus stools by Ido Yoshimoto drawing attention to the meadow-like roof garden plantings and treetops beyond.