In today’s homes, space is no longer limited by four walls. The patio, open to the sky but influencing the entire interior, creates a sense of openness, light, and calm — reminding us that a home is much more than the sum of its parts. This familiar architectural element is given a contemporary interpretation, emphasizing connection to nature, privacy, and quality of life, even in small and dense homes.
“The patio is an element that brings in light and creates an implied separation without closing anything off,” explains Hila Israelevitz, owner of Dan and Hila Israelevitz Architects. “It’s a space that allows for many perspectives and different experiential layers.”
Neither Inside Nor Outside
The uniqueness of the patio lies in its position at the boundary: It’s not entirely indoors, but not fully outdoors either. Open to the sky and defined as an outdoor space, it deeply affects the interior experience and creates a greater sense of space within the home.
“This is a space that makes the home feel bigger — not by adding a room, but through an element that isn’t considered indoors yet changes the entire feeling,” adds Israelevitz. “Through the patio, light, air, and greenery enter — three components that create quality of life.”
Often, the patio replaces a solid wall that could create heaviness and confinement. In its place, an open space is created that brings in natural light and ventilates the home — both physically and mentally. “Many times, it’s a blocked wall that turns into a source of positive energy,” notes Israelevitz. “The patio opens the home’s breathing.”
The patio is also suitable for small homes: From a size of about 6 m², it can bring a private courtyard directly into the house. Beyond light and greenery, it also serves as a functional space — a morning coffee corner, a reading spot, a place for meditation, or simply a quiet moment during the day.
“It’s a space that invites you to pause,” concludes Israelevitz. “To sit, breathe, and have a moment with yourself.”
Some patios are located at the center of the home, while others are positioned at the front. In the latter case, it creates a smart intermediate layer between the street and the interior. “If there’s a front yard that isn’t really used, the patio allows for a wall that lets light through while also providing privacy, creating an in-between space — neither outside nor inside — that ensures privacy,” she explains.
Also Suitable for Small Homes
Sometimes, the patio is used in unexpected ways, such as an outdoor shower that connects the body, water, and open sky. All of these illustrate a broader living concept — one that doesn’t end at four walls.
“There are many uses for the patio,” summarizes Israelevitz, “but above all — it creates interest, depth, and a connection to nature inside the home.”
Ultimately, the patio is much more than an architectural element. It’s a way to think differently about the home — as a space that breathes, opens inward and outward, and provides real quality of life, even in the heart of urban density.