Is Your Backyard Ready for a Makeover? Here’s What to Expect

You’ve been thinking about it for a while now. Every time you step outside, you imagine a backyard that’s not just a patch of grass and an old patio set, but a true extension of your home. A place where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy life. Maybe you want a pool to cool off in the summer or a patio that invites you to sip your morning coffee in peace. But the process of getting from where you are now to that dream backyard? That feels overwhelming. Where do you even start?

That’s exactly what we’re going to walk you through today. We’ll take you step by step through the transformation of a real backyard remodel—from the first idea to the final, polished space. You’ll see how we navigated design challenges, selected materials, and tackled construction so the homeowners could enjoy a backyard that looked like it was always meant to be there. And yes, we’ll talk about the cost, so you know what to expect if you’re considering a similar project.

Before

Step 1: Understanding the Homeowner's Vision

Every backyard transformation starts with a conversation. For this particular project, the homeowners had a small patio and deck, but they wanted more. Their vision? A space centered around a plunge pool, a spot where they could relax year-round. They also wanted everything to be simple and convenient, meaning a WiFi-controlled system to manage the pool’s temperature and features from their phone.

One of the biggest challenges we faced early on was matching the materials. Their existing patio had pavers that weren’t easy to find. Instead of jumping into the design process right away, we first tracked down the right materials. After a lot of searching, we found the exact pavers we needed—hidden in the discontinued section of one of our suppliers! It was a lucky break, and it set the foundation for everything else to come.

Step 2: Laying the Groundwork – Excavation and Installation

Once the plan was in place, it was time to start construction. The first big task? Excavation. We needed to clear out the soil and prep the area for the pool installation. Here’s how that process went:

      1. Excavation – Removing soil to make room for the plunge pool.
      2. Backfilling – Adding a gravel bed to create a stable base.
      3. Pool Delivery & Placement – A truck all the way from Baltimore delivered the pool. Using a crane, we carefully lowered the 7×13-foot plunge pool into its new home.

Once the pool was set, everything else could start falling into place. Plumbing and electrical work were next, ensuring the pool’s gas heater and smart system were fully operational. Now, the homeowners could control everything with just a few taps on their phone.

Step 3: Hardscaping – Tying It All Together

With the pool in place, it was time to focus on the patio. Hardscaping is what makes a backyard look finished, tying everything together visually and functionally. Since we had already secured the right pavers, we could move forward with installation:

    • Base Preparation: We built an open-grade base for durability.
    • Paver Installation: Using the matching pavers, we extended the patio seamlessly.
    • Joint Sanding: We used nitro sand, a resin-based alternative to traditional polymeric sand, which helps prevent weeds from growing between the pavers.

The result? A backyard that looked cohesive—like it was all built at the same time rather than in separate projects.

The Final Look and Cost

Seeing the finished space was incredibly rewarding. The plunge pool, matching patio, and smart controls made this backyard feel like a true retreat. But what did it all cost?

    • WiFi-controlled plunge pool: Included gas heater and app integration
    • Matching paver patio: 180 sq. ft. of hardscaping
    • Plumbing & gas line installation: Professional work to connect the heater
    • Landscaping – Added plants, mulch, and final grading to complete the space.

Total cost: $114,560

Yes, it’s a significant investment. But for these homeowners, it was worth it. They now have a backyard oasis they can use all year round, with smart technology that makes it effortless to enjoy.

Is a Backyard Remodel Right for You?

If you’re dreaming of a backyard transformation, the process might seem overwhelming at first. But with the right plan, materials, and team, you can create a space that feels like an extension of your home—one you’ll love for years to come. Whether you’re adding a plunge pool, expanding your patio, or upgrading your outdoor space, knowing what to expect can make all the difference.

So, what does your dream backyard look like? And more importantly, when are you ready to start making it a reality?