Softscape & Hardscape Design and Installation FAQs

Since you’re here, you’re likely considering the best way to transform your outdoor space. While both decks and patios have their place, patios offer unmatched elegance, durability, and design versatility. Unlike decks, which require frequent maintenance and can feel cramped, patios provide a spacious, low-maintenance foundation for outdoor living. With a variety of colors, textures, and layouts, patios seamlessly blend with your landscape. Because they sit at ground level, they create an effortless flow into the lawn and surrounding outdoor spaces, making gatherings feel more open and inviting—without the concern of overcrowding on a raised platform.

One of the biggest luxuries of a patio is the ability to incorporate a fire feature, whether it’s a cozy fire pit or a grand outdoor fireplace. Many homeowners love pairing a screened-in porch with a patio, offering both shaded comfort and an open space for entertaining. Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution—your home and lifestyle are unique, and we’re here to help design the perfect outdoor retreat for you. Whether it’s a patio, a deck, or a thoughtful combination of both, we’ll guide you in creating a space that’s as beautiful as it is functional.

Have you ever envisioned transforming your backyard into a luxurious retreat but weren’t sure where to begin? Every exceptional outdoor space starts with a thoughtful design—one that reflects your lifestyle and enhances your home’s beauty. The key is understanding how you want to experience it. Will this be an intimate sanctuary where you unwind with family, or a vibrant gathering space for entertaining guests? A cozy retreat may require just 200–400 square feet, perfect for enjoying your morning coffee or a quiet dinner under the stars. If you love hosting, consider at least 600 square feet, allowing ample room for guests to mingle while incorporating features like a built-in bar, fire pit, or outdoor kitchen.

For those dreaming of a poolside oasis with a fully equipped outdoor kitchen and plenty of space for entertaining, 800–1,200 square feet creates the ultimate outdoor experience. This generous layout provides distinct areas for dining, lounging, and socializing, ensuring every gathering is both comfortable and unforgettable. Whether you seek tranquility or a lively entertainment hub, your outdoor space should be a seamless extension of your home—a place where luxury meets functionality. Let’s bring your vision to life with a design that turns your backyard into a true destination.

When designing your outdoor space, the choice between pavers and stamped concrete is essential to achieving both beauty and durability. Pavers offer a rich variety of textures, from smooth cobbled surfaces to antique finishes, while stamped concrete relies on surface patterns that, despite their appearance, can become dangerously slippery when wet. Aesthetically, pavers provide a timeless elegance with endless pattern options ranging from formal to informal, while stamped concrete is limited by pre-made stamp designs. Additionally, the color in pavers is infused throughout the material, ensuring lasting vibrancy, whereas stamped concrete relies on surface-applied dyes that can fade over time and expose dull gray concrete when chipped.

Beyond aesthetics, pavers excel in quality and longevity. Their segmented design allows them to flex with natural ground movement, preventing unsightly cracks that are inevitable with large concrete slabs. Stamped concrete, while initially more affordable, tends to develop cracks over time, which are virtually impossible to repair. Pavers, on the other hand, are designed for durability, capable of withstanding heavy loads and harsh weather while maintaining their integrity. With superior traction, long-lasting color, and a refined look that enhances any home, pavers are the clear choice for those seeking a beautiful, enduring hardscape.

Many homeowners dream of having a stunning outdoor space, yet hesitate to take the first step, often concerned about cost. Others seek multiple quotes, only to receive vastly different estimates, leaving them uncertain about what truly goes into pricing a patio. Just like a home, no two patios are priced the same. Size does play a role, but factors such as material selection, terrain, accessibility, and design features all contribute to the overall investment. A high-quality paver patio, designed and installed by experienced professionals, typically starts around $15,000 for a 400-500 square-foot space on relatively level ground with no additional features. If your property has a slope requiring a retaining wall to create the necessary level area, costs can increase by 50-100%, depending on the terrain and patio size. Beyond the foundation, the features you choose will further personalize your space. Fire elements add warmth and ambiance, with a basic wood-burning fire pit starting at $2,000-$2,500, while a grand outdoor fireplace can range from $15,000-$20,000. Opting for a gas or propane burner with decorative rock or glass enhances convenience but typically adds $3,000-$5,000 to the overall cost.

For those who love to entertain, an outdoor kitchen is a fantastic addition, bringing convenience and elegance to your patio. Pricing varies based on materials and appliances, but a general estimate is $1,000-$1,500 per linear foot. A well-appointed 12-foot kitchen, complete with a grill, sink, and storage, would likely range from $12,000-$18,000. Beyond materials and design, the expertise of your contractor is one of the most critical factors in ensuring a patio that is not only stunning but built to last. A well-crafted patio is an investment in your home’s beauty and value, and working with a highly skilled team guarantees a seamless, enduring result. With thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship, your outdoor space can be transformed into an extension of your home—one that blends durability, style, and comfort.

“I need something that is low maintenance.” This is one of the most common requests I hear from homeowners, and it makes perfect sense. Life is busy, and the last thing anyone wants is a time-consuming outdoor space. The good news is that a well-installed paver patio offers an incredibly low-maintenance option, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor living area without worrying about constant upkeep. Of course, I said “low-maintenance” rather than “no-maintenance.” While the effort required is minimal, the key to a long-lasting patio starts with proper installation. A quality installation ensures your patio will require little more than regular cleaning and occasional attention—just a quick blow-off of debris and a gentle power wash once or twice a year to keep it looking pristine.

In addition to cleaning, sealing your pavers every 4-5 years helps protect against stains, discoloration, and fading, maintaining their rich color and smooth finish. Some pavers come pre-sealed, but a reapplication of high-quality sealer will provide added protection. The polymeric sand between the pavers may also need to be refreshed after several years of use, but with proper maintenance, it can last up to a decade before needing replacement. When it’s time, replacing the sand is straightforward and requires just a high-pressure wash to clear out the old sand, followed by a simple reapplication. With these basic steps, your paver patio will remain a beautiful, low-maintenance centerpiece for your outdoor living space for years to come.