With outdoor living rooms becoming the space du jour, classy concrete patio ideas are a must for a timeless look in any backyard. The beauty of a concrete patio is that it’s low-maintenance and creates a visual break in a sea of landscaping ideas.

A concrete patio does not have to be all concrete. Mark Cutler, cofounder of CutlerSchulze, in Los Angeles, worked with landscape designer Joni Janecki to create concrete pads that echoed the shape of oak leaves. “Not only does it break up the hardscape, but it also encourages creative play in the garden,” he says.

Like many things in life, having a partner can make them easier, more enriching and just better in so many ways. That is why I am so excited about my new partnership with my long time collaborator, Nichole Schulze. Together, we bring insights and years of experience with each of us coming from a different angle but landing in the same spot, it’s a great thing. The process of creating this has made me think about how a homeowner selects  a designer, because what they are really looking for is a partner to go on this fabulous journey with them.