This custom pool and spa have everything a backyard needs. The custom pergola over the spa rains water to keep you warm. There is also a raised wall with 2 bubblers and a fire feature.

The planning phase of this modern retreat was an intense collaboration that took place over the course of more than two years. While the initial design concept exceeded the clients' expectations, it also exceeded their budget beyond the point of comfort. The next several months were spent modifying the design, in attempts to lower the budget. Ultimately, the decision was made that they would hold off on the project until they could budget for the original design, rather than compromising the vision. About a year later, we repeated that same process, which resulted in the same outcome. After another year-long hiatus, we met once again. We revisited design thoughts, each of us bringing to the table new ideas and options. Each thought simply solidified the fact that the initial vision was absolutely what we all wanted to see come to fruition, and the decision was finally made to move forward. The main challenge of the site was elevation. The Southeast corner of the lot stands 5'6" above the threshold of the rear door, while the Northeast corner dropped a full 2' below the threshold of the door. The backyard was also long and narrow, sloping side-to-side and toward the house. The key to the design concept was to deftly place the project into the slope and utilize the elevation changes, without allowing them to dominate the yard, or overwhelm the senses. The unseen challenge on this project came in the form of hitting every underground issue possible. We had to relocate the sewer main, the gas line, and the electrical service; and since rock was sitting about 6" below the surface, all of these had to be chiseled through many feet of dense rock, adding to our projected timeline and budget. As you enter the space, your first stop is an outdoor living area. Smooth finished concrete, colored to match the 'Leuder' limestone coping, has a subtle saw-cut pattern aligned with the edges of the recessed fire pit. In small spaces, it is important to consider a multi-purpose approach. So, the recessed fire pit has been fitted with an aluminum cover that allows our client to set up tables and chairs for entertaining, right over the top of the fire pit. From here, it;s two steps up to the pool elevation, and the floating 'Leuder' limestone stepper pads that lead across the pool and hide the dam wall of the flush spa. The main retaining wall to the Southeast is a poured concrete wall with an integrated sheer descent waterfall into the spa. To bring in some depth and texture, a 'Brownstone' ledgestone was used to face both the dropped beam on the pool, and the raised beam of the water feature wall. The main water feature is comprised of five custom made stainless steel scuppers, supplied by a dedicated booster pump. Colored concrete stepper pads lead to the 'Ipe' wood deck at the far end of the pool. The placement of this wood deck allowed us to minimize our use of retaining walls on the Northeast end of the yard, since it drops off over three feet below the elevation of the pool beam. One of the most unique features on this project has to be the structure over the dining area. With a unique combination of steel and wood, the clean modern aesthetic of this structure creates a visual stamp in the space that standard structure could not accomplish. 4" steel posts, painted charcoal grey, are set on an angle, 4' into the bedrock, to anchor the structure. Steel I-beams painted in green-yellow color--aptly called "frolic"--act as the base to the hefty cedar rafters of the roof structure, which has a slight pitch toward the rear. A hidden gutter on the back of the roof sends water down a copper rain chain, and into the drainage system. The backdrop for both this dining area , as well as the living area, is the horizontal screen panel, created with alternating sizes of cedar planks, stained to a calm hue of dove grey.

Inspiration for a rustic two-story wood exterior home remodel in Boston

Photography by Golden Gate Creative
Example of a mid-sized farmhouse medium tone wood floor, brown floor and coffered ceiling open concept kitchen design in San Francisco with a farmhouse sink, white cabinets, marble countertops, white backsplash, cement tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island, white countertops and shaker cabinets

Island style patio photo in Los Angeles

Inspiration for a huge timeless backyard patio remodel in New Orleans with a pergola

A beautiful back deck/patio outdoor living area by Elemental Design in collaboration with KSF Architects in Milan Michigan. Project elements included 50' long curved limestone slab retaining wall, 450 sf cedar deck, integrated Azek and cedar steps and pergola, raised planting beds. Photography by Jeeheon Cho Photography Ann Arbor MI

Example of a large classic backyard patio design in Atlanta

Example of a trendy pool design in New York

This isn’t just a covered patio. This is engineered luxury, perfectly sculpted to elevate your poolside lifestyle. The Azenco R-CAR™ is a freestanding, cantilevered roof system that creates the ideal blend of modern aesthetics, weather protection, and everyday functionality. Its bold overhang design offers unobstructed views and breezy openness without bulky support posts in the way. Precision-engineered aluminum frames with powder-coated finishes ensure long-lasting durability, even in the most demanding environments. With an insulated solid roof panel, this structure provides 100% waterproof protection and temperature control, making it perfect for all-day enjoyment whether you're grilling, entertaining, or simply lounging with family. Integrated lighting, fans, and heating systems bring indoor comfort to your favorite outdoor space. Unlike flimsy retractable awnings or low-grade pergolas, the R-CAR™ delivers sleek sophistication and engineered strength. It is made in the USA, built to code, and designed to last. With zero visible fasteners and clean architectural lines, it turns any backyard into a five-star retreat. This is the roof that doesn’t just protect your space, it defines it. Let’s bring this level of craftsmanship and comfort to your home. Schedule your outdoor design consultation today: 516-522-8249

This is not just an outdoor cover. This is a lifestyle upgrade built to impress, rain or shine. The Azenco R-BLADE™ is a fully adjustable louvered roof system engineered for precision, beauty, and year-round comfort. Each motorized louver rotates silently to give you control over light, ventilation, and protection with the touch of a button. Open up to the sunshine. Close tightly during rain. Stay cool under soft shade. The system even drains water internally through hidden gutters for a sleek, dry finish after a storm. Crafted from high-grade powder-coated aluminum, the R-BLADE™ resists corrosion, warping, and fading over time. Unlike traditional wooden pergolas or basic metal covers that weather poorly or require constant maintenance, this structure delivers long-lasting performance with a modern, seamless aesthetic. This featured installation blends a bright white frame with contrasting matte louvers; Perfectly suited for transitional homes that want to balance elegance with innovation. From family dinners to game-day gatherings, it creates a versatile outdoor room that feels like a natural extension of your home. Built smart. Styled strong. Loved year-round. Let’s help you design a space that adapts with the weather and your life. Book your outdoor living consultation today: 516-522-8249

The secret to a beautiful and functional backyard design is planning. Don't just start putting the pieces in place randomly. Decide what you want. Think long term. Sunset Construction and Design specializes in creating residential patio retreats, outdoor kitchens with fireplaces and luxurious outdoor living rooms. Our design-build service can turn an ordinary back yard into a natural extension of your home giving you a whole new dimension for entertaining or simply unwinding at the end of the day. If you’re interested in converting a boring back yard or starting from scratch in a new home, give us a call today! A great patio and outdoor living area can easily be yours.

When it comes to luxury outdoor living, it’s not just about what you see, it’s about what works silently to protect your investment. Azenco’s patented internal gutter and drainage system is a perfect example of invisible engineering that makes a world of difference. What you’re looking at in this image is more than a sleek stainless steel outlet. It’s the endpoint of a fully integrated solution that channels rainwater from the louvers through internal beams, down the posts, and safely away from your patio. No messy external gutters. No exposed PVC pipes. Just clean lines and flawless performance. Made from marine-grade aluminum and fitted with stainless steel outlets, the system is rust-resistant, freeze-proof, and virtually maintenance-free. This thoughtful innovation separates Azenco from lower-tier pergola manufacturers who often overlook these essentials leading to flooding, foundation erosion, and mold issues over time. By investing in a system designed with this level of detail, you’re not just choosing aesthetics you’re choosing smart, long-lasting functionality. Want your outdoor space to look good and work even better? Schedule your consultation today: 516-522-8249

Heidi Long
Inspiration for a contemporary deck remodel with no cover

Welcome to your Southwestern Adventure. Nestled on over two acres this Incredible Horse Property is a ''Ranchers'' dream! Gated front pergola covered courtyard, 92''x48''x3'', and cedar door w/speakeasy. Stunning inlaid floor t/o with stone design in foyer and coat closet. Unique kitchen features Viking appliances, double ovens, food warmer, 6 burner gas stove top, built-in Miele coffee maker, vegetable sink, pot filler, insta hot water, breakfast nook/bar seating, pantry, skylight, and granite/glass countertops with custom cabinetry. Open concept family room to kitchen. Wood burning fireplace, large upper lit viga beams, and French door to pool. Amazing Atrium with skylight and fountain all opening up to family rm, dining rm, and game room. Pool table in game room with wood burning fireplace,built-ins, with back patio access and pool area. First bedroom offers Murphy bed and can be easily converted from office to bedroom. The 2nd bedroom with large closet and private bathroom. Guest bedroom with private bathroom and large closet. Grand master retreat with attached workout room and library. Patio access to back patio and pool area. His/Hers closets and separate dressing area. Private spa-like master en suite with large shower, steam room, wall jets, rain shower head, hydraulic skylight, and separate vanities/sinks. Laundry room with storage, utility sink, and convenient hanging rod. 3 Car garage, one extra long slot, swamp cooler, and work room with built-ins or use as an extra parking spot for a small car or motorcycle. Entertaining backyard is a must see! Colorful and fun with covered patio, built-in BBQ w/side burner, sin, refrigerator, television, gas fire pit, garden with 2'x15' raised beds and work area. Refreshing pool with water feature, Jacuzzi, and sauna. Mature fruit trees, drip system, and circular driveway. Bonus 2nd patio, extra large wood or coal burning grill/smoker, pizza oven, and lots of seating. The horses will love their 7 Stall Barn including Stud Stall and Foaling Stall. Tack Room, automatic flyer sprayer, automatic watering system, 7 stall covered mare motel. Turn out or Riding arena. Pellet silo and covered trailer parking. Security system with motion cameras.

Imagine Backyard Living has established an exclusive partnership with the Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs and Sundance® Spas for Maricopa County. The process of looking at all of the product on the market was long and grueling, but the choice was simple: offer the finest quality brands in the industry so we can ensure our customers will experience only the best in relaxation, hydro therapy and pain relief. There is not even a close second choice. Stop by and see for yourself.

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Companion planting, art and somewhere to sit make for a fabulous kitchen garden.
Inspiration for a small farmhouse concrete paver vegetable garden landscape in Hamilton for summer.

Transitional backyard stone patio photo in Toronto with no cover