Entertaining Small Space
Outdoor Living Room
A compact backyard turned into a genuine outdoor room: a custom pergola over a bordered paver patio, sized for a dining table and a full set of seating.
How this project came together
The challenge
A compact back yard with nothing in it. Usable ground, but nothing to make anyone sit down, cook or eat out there.
The design decision
We built the yard around a paved patio and a prefabricated pergola, with interlocking pavers in an ashlar pattern marking the main gathering space. A raised rustic stone wall with a planter in it gives the space structure and somewhere else to sit.
The build
A small panel of lawn and some gravel balance the hardscape. A new cedar fence and gate close the space in. Pergola, paving and planting together make a room you can dine in and use day to day.
The Design Process
From survey to buildable plan
Every project is measured, drawn, and approved before a shovel goes in the ground. These are the actual drawings for this property.
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100%Conceptual Plan
This conceptual landscape design organizes the compact yard into a functional outdoor living area anchored by a paved patio and prefabricated pergola. Interlocking pavers in an ashlar pattern define the main gathering space, while a raised rustic stone wall and integrated planter provide structure and seating opportunities. A small lawn panel and gravel areas balance the hardscape with softscape, and a new cedar fence and gate enhance privacy and enclosure. Together, the pergola, paving, and planting zones create a comfortable, well-defined setting for dining, relaxing, and everyday outdoor use.
Before & After
The property as we found it
Drag the handle to see the same view before construction began.
Before After
The Build
Built by our own crews
Excavation, grading, drainage, and hardscape, all handled in house, so there's one team accountable from the first drawing to the last plant.
Finished Project
Outdoor Living Room in detail
9 photographs of the completed project.
Planning something like this?
We build Pergolas & Carpentry, Patios & Hardscape and Planting across Southern California
Design, permits, materials, and construction are handled by one in-house team. A designer will walk your property, talk through what's realistic on your lot, and show you what the space can become.
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