Tamara Alvarez
Inspiration for a small tropical pool remodel in Miami with decking

We converted a small deck next to the front door, into a reader's oasis. The hammock was sitting in storage, the pots were left behind by the previous owner, the square stump was sourced from a neighbors fallen tree. All we bought were the rug, stool, wall planter, lights, hanging macrame planter, and plants.

After picture of berm that was created over a new septic tank. We installed a stone retaining wall and boulder accents, along with plantings. We also created a custom metal and cedar hammock stand. David Kopfmann

Heather Fritz
Inspiration for a rustic backyard stamped concrete patio kitchen remodel in Atlanta with no cover

Challenge This 2001 riverfront home was purchased by the owners in 2015 and immediately renovated. Progressive Design Build was hired at that time to remodel the interior, with tentative plans to remodel their outdoor living space as a second phase design/build remodel. True to their word, after completing the interior remodel, this young family turned to Progressive Design Build in 2017 to address known zoning regulations and restrictions in their backyard and build an outdoor living space that was fit for entertaining and everyday use. The homeowners wanted a pool and spa, outdoor living room, kitchen, fireplace and covered patio. They also wanted to stay true to their home’s Old Florida style architecture while also adding a Jamaican influence to the ceiling detail, which held sentimental value to the homeowners who honeymooned in Jamaica. Solution To tackle the known zoning regulations and restrictions in the backyard, the homeowners researched and applied for a variance. With the variance in hand, Progressive Design Build sat down with the homeowners to review several design options. These options included: Option 1) Modifications to the original pool design, changing it to be longer and narrower and comply with an existing drainage easement Option 2) Two different layouts of the outdoor living area Option 3) Two different height elevations and options for the fire pit area Option 4) A proposed breezeway connecting the new area with the existing home After reviewing the options, the homeowners chose the design that placed the pool on the backside of the house and the outdoor living area on the west side of the home (Option 1). It was important to build a patio structure that could sustain a hurricane (a Southwest Florida necessity), and provide substantial sun protection. The new covered area was supported by structural columns and designed as an open-air porch (with no screens) to allow for an unimpeded view of the Caloosahatchee River. The open porch design also made the area feel larger, and the roof extension was built with substantial strength to survive severe weather conditions. The pool and spa were connected to the adjoining patio area, designed to flow seamlessly into the next. The pool deck was designed intentionally in a 3-color blend of concrete brick with freeform edge detail to mimic the natural river setting. Bringing the outdoors inside, the pool and fire pit were slightly elevated to create a small separation of space. Result All of the desirable amenities of a screened porch were built into an open porch, including electrical outlets, a ceiling fan/light kit, TV, audio speakers, and a fireplace. The outdoor living area was finished off with additional storage for cushions, ample lighting, an outdoor dining area, a smoker, a grill, a double-side burner, an under cabinet refrigerator, a major ventilation system, and water supply plumbing that delivers hot and cold water to the sinks. Because the porch is under a roof, we had the option to use classy woods that would give the structure a natural look and feel. We chose a dark cypress ceiling with a gloss finish, replicating the same detail that the homeowners experienced in Jamaica. This created a deep visceral and emotional reaction from the homeowners to their new backyard. The family now spends more time outdoors enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Their professional lives allow them to take a trip to paradise right in their backyard—stealing moments that reflect on the past, but are also enjoyed in the present.

Example of a mid-sized eclectic backyard concrete paver and rectangular lap pool design in Boston

Rock outcroppings make a striking background for new lounge areas in this compact Los Angeles hillside garden. Working with the attributes of the site, we added native plants to drape over the stone, and converted hollowed stone planters into a firepit and water feature. New built-in seating and a cozy hammock complete the relaxing space, and dramatic lighting makes it come alive at night. Photo by Martin Cox Photography.

Residential home in Santa Cruz, CA This stunning front and backyard project was so much fun! The plethora of K&D's scope of work included: smooth finished concrete walls, multiple styles of horizontal redwood fencing, smooth finished concrete stepping stones, bands, steps & pathways, paver patio & driveway, artificial turf, TimberTech stairs & decks, TimberTech custom bench with storage, shower wall with bike washing station, custom concrete fountain, poured-in-place fire pit, pour-in-place half circle bench with sloped back rest, metal pergola, low voltage lighting, planting and irrigation! (*Adorable cat not included)

Tito Saubidet
Mid-sized mountain style brick back porch idea in New York with a roof extension

CJW/RB
This is an example of a large traditional partial sun backyard mulch landscaping in Boston for summer.

Photo by Casey Dunn
Beach style screened-in back porch photo in Austin with decking and a roof extension

This house was only 1,100 SF with 2 bedrooms and one bath. In this project we added 600SF making it 4+3 and remodeled the entire house. The house now has amazing polished concrete floors, modern kitchen with a huge island and many contemporary features all throughout.

The client wanted patio space for a chair so she could relax in the sun when the mood struck. The only spot in the yard with any sun is near the fence gate. A full-range New York Bluestone patio was added using 30” x 30” slabs. These slabs are dry-set so leveling was a challenge.

The upper deck includes Ipe flooring, an outdoor kitchen with concrete countertops, and a custom decorative metal railing that connects to the lower deck's artificial turf area. The ground level features custom concrete pavers, fire pit, open framed pergola with day bed and under decking system.

Landscape, hardscape and furniture selection by Topsy Design. We are a full service studio that can transform the inside and outside of your home.
Mid-sized eclectic backyard stone patio photo in Los Angeles with no cover

Very inviting isn't it? I have lost count how many of these I have built over the years. And they are like snowflakes every single one is different!
Inspiration for a small eclectic backyard brick patio remodel in Minneapolis with a pergola

Tuscan backyard patio photo in San Francisco with a fire pit and no cover

Photo: Rikki Snyder © 2014 Houzz
Design ideas for a traditional partial sun backyard landscaping in New York.