Patios & pavers
Natural stone, concrete and paver patios, walkways and driveways.
Outdoor Living & Landscaping
Backyards, patios and gardens designed for Southern California's indoor-outdoor way of life.
Planning a project like this? Share a few details for a free estimate.
Request a Free EstimateDesigning the outdoor room
Southern California backyards can function as true outdoor rooms for much of the year. A focused patio, shade or planting update can improve everyday use without a complete backyard renovation. For larger projects, plan the whole yard first — how you'll cook, dine, relax and play — then discuss priorities and sequencing with the contractor.
Many projects begin with structure: pavers and hardscaping for patios and paths, then shade from patio covers and pergolas. For entertaining, an outdoor kitchen brings cooking outside, while drought-tolerant landscaping and artificial grass keep the yard green with less water.
What a backyard remodel can include
Pergolas & patio covers
Shade structures that extend usable outdoor living space.
Outdoor kitchens
Built-in grills, counters and gathering areas for entertaining.
Landscape renovation
Drought-tolerant planting, lighting and water-saving irrigation.
Planning your backyard
Start by deciding how you want to use the yard — dining, lounging, cooking, play, gardening — and where each activity fits best.
- Zones and flow
- Place dining near the kitchen door, lounging in shade, and play areas within view of the house.
- Sun and wind
- Track afternoon sun and prevailing breezes to decide where shade and seating belong.
- Utilities
- Gas, water and electrical lines for kitchens, lighting and fire features are planned before any paving goes down.
- Phasing
- Large backyards can be built in stages, starting with drainage and hardscape that later elements depend on.
Patios, hardscaping and drainage
- Patio surfaces
- Pavers, poured concrete and natural stone each offer different looks and repairability. See pavers and hardscaping for a detailed comparison.
- Base preparation
- Compacted base layers prevent settling and cracking over time.
- Drainage
- Patios are sloped away from the house, and drains or permeable surfaces handle winter rain.
- Walls and steps
- Seat walls, planters and steps help manage slopes and define spaces.
Outdoor kitchens and entertaining
- Kitchen islands
- Built-in grills, counters, sinks and refrigeration bring cooking outdoors. See outdoor kitchens for layout and utility planning.
- Gathering areas
- Dining tables, lounge seating and fire features extend evenings outside.
- Lighting
- Path, step and ambient lighting improve safety and atmosphere after dark.
Patio covers, pergolas and shade
- Solid patio covers
- Provide full shade and rain protection, often attached to the house.
- Pergolas
- Open-beam structures that filter sun and can support shade fabric or louvers. See patio covers and pergolas.
- Permits and setbacks
- Many cities require permits for shade structures, especially attached or electrified ones, and setback rules can affect placement.
Water-wise planting and lawn alternatives
- Drought-tolerant landscaping
- Climate-appropriate plants with drip irrigation reduce outdoor water use. See drought-tolerant landscaping.
- Artificial grass
- Suits play and pet areas that need a lawn-like surface, with trade-offs in heat and maintenance. See artificial grass.
- Mixing approaches
- Many yards combine a small turf or lawn area with planted borders and hardscape.
How the project typically unfolds
AAA All America Affordable Construction and Remodeling Inc. manages the agreed construction process, including applicable permit coordination, inspections, project management, subcontractor coordination, quality oversight, warranties and project completion. BH Signature personally reviews homeowner inquiries and introduces relevant project details to the identified licensed contracting partner, which handles construction planning and delivery.
- Step 1
Site review and goals
Walk the yard, note sun, slopes, drainage and utilities, and discuss how you want to use the space.
- Step 2
Design and selections
Develop a layout and choose surfaces, structures, kitchen components and plants.
- Step 3
Permits
Pull permits for structures, gas, electrical or walls where your city requires them.
- Step 4
Construction sequence
Grading and drainage, utilities, hardscape, structures, then planting, irrigation and lighting.
Responsibilities depend on the agreed project scope and contract. Permit approval rests with the relevant authorities; warranty coverage and terms are confirmed for your project. Completion timing depends on the work, site conditions and required approvals, not a promised date.
Patio surface options
| Surface | Look | Repairability | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete pavers | Many shapes and colors | Individual units can be lifted and reset | Joints need occasional sand top-up |
| Poured concrete | Smooth, broom or stamped finishes | Cracks are harder to hide | Control joints help manage cracking |
| Natural stone | Unique, high-end | Pieces can be replaced | Higher material cost; varies by stone |
| Decomposed granite | Natural, informal | Easy to top up | Can track indoors; best for paths |
Shade structure options
| Solid patio cover | Open pergola | |
|---|---|---|
| Shade | Full | Partial, filtered |
| Rain protection | Yes | No, unless covered or louvered |
| Light into the house | Can reduce it | Retains more daylight |
| Typical use | Outdoor living and dining rooms | Gardens, lounges, kitchens |
Frequently asked questions
What should be built first in a backyard remodel?
Drainage, grading and underground utilities come first, followed by hardscape and structures. Planting and finishing details come last.
Do patio covers need permits?
Many cities require permits for patio covers and pergolas, particularly attached structures or those with electrical. Your city's rules confirm what applies.
Can a backyard be remodeled in phases?
Yes. A full design upfront lets you build in stages without redoing earlier work.
Should I choose artificial grass or drought-tolerant planting?
It depends on how the area will be used. Turf suits play and pets; planting offers habitat, less surface heat and lower water use once established. Many yards use both.
Start Your Project With a Personal Connection.
Considering this home improvement? Tell BH Signature what you have in mind. The licensed contractor can then discuss your property, project scope, consultation, and estimate directly with you.
Request Your Free EstimateFree estimates are provided by the licensed contractor, AAA All America Affordable Construction and Remodeling Inc..