In this backyard, a total of 3,450 square feet of pavers were installed. Additionally, retaining walls up to 7' high were installed throughout. The manufacturer recommends that the leveling pad of crushed aggregate be at least 6" deep below the first course, and 6" in front and behind the first course. For a wall 7' high, it is recommended that one course of blocks be buried with geogrid reinforcement.

 

The 350'-long structural retaining wall uses Pavestone Anchor Diamond Pro Stone Cut series in a sandstone color. Three sizes of blocks were used: 8"x7", 8"x11", and 8"x18". Daisies, pampas grass, roses and more add a splash of color to the space.

Dream
When there's color around every corner and the sound of birds enjoying the sunlight is abundant, the season for outdoor living has arrived. With the lighting of a torch, let the entertaining and excitement begin. The smell of a flower blossom, oak wood burning, or the aroma coming from the grill can be an inspiration beckoning for more of the outdoors. The possibilities are endless: a hardscape patio for entertaining, a retaining wall to level or increase the backyard, a retreat enhanced by selecting plants to attract certain wildlife, or maybe this year let it all go and create that once in a lifetime dream pool and cabana. After all, the cool refreshing beverages will be there in the end to reflect on the accomplishment. The concepts are limitless, so begin with one that includes many of the past dreams, then reflect on what is necessary, and meet in the middle with creativity and personality.

Budget
Before roasting marshmallows over an open flame, or lounging while taking in the fresh air, the limitless outdoors must be tamed slightly to fit within a budget. A budget is often misinterpreted as a limit or an end. However, a budget used properly becomes an acceptable direction for creativity. Staying within a set budget will allow enjoyment of the outdoor living space for many years, and will set guidelines for the magnitude of the work to be done. This way, all parties involved will understand the allowable means and have similar expectations for a successful completion.

The curved retaining wall uses trapezoid shaped caps along the curve to reduce the number of cuts required in the field. Rosemary, butterfly bushes, roses and more are planted above and around the retaining wall. Heritage buff colored Holland pavers are arranged around the in-ground firepit in a herringbone pattern.

Mocha blend pavers in a random pattern complement the sandstone retaining wall. A Japanese maple tree and elephant ears give the space a relaxed feel.

Space
Remember to include enough free space to provide the area with an open feel. Many times the budget will be a factor, but understand that the free space is the controlling factor for the relaxation pursued in the first place. Customers begin discussions with a pre-determined size of a space before they have reviewed what all is intended to be placed in the space. Tables, chairs, and planters all take up space, but the free space to maneuver around these objects is typically neglected.

For instance, people usually need about 30" of space to comfortably move around. When considering the positioning of a table, take the table dimension, add the width of someone sitting in the chairs, and now add 30" to maneuver around each pushed out chair. A 4' wide table plus about 3' for each person pushed out on both sides of the table plus about 30" to walk around means you need about 15' of width just for the short-side of a table. Bottom line, the home has walls and limitations based on the foundation and roof of the structure. An outdoor living space does not have any restrictions, other than the property line. Therefore, the outdoors has less limited free space to dream and build whatever the imagination can conceive. For example, pavers can create a level surface, and a retaining wall block can build up the area or add aesthetics to a level yard by using a free-standing wall to create interest.

Materials
We recommend to homeowners that they hire a landscape professional for hardscape projects. Most homeowners have not experienced the effort and strength it takes to build a hardscape project, which as a DIY can extend to several months. Since you professionals can make it a reality within a few days for a little extra than what they would pay for a commercial rated product, why should the homeowner have to wait to enjoy the new outdoor space? Plus, the fact that you are using the proper equipment, material, and methods will ensure the outdoor space lasts for season after season of entertaining. The commercial quality manufactured products you purchase are built to last. Once the transformation is complete, the homeowner's only question will be why they did not build the outdoor space sooner.

Enjoy
The landscape professional has more than likely already conquered the homeowner's conceived dream or a similar project. Rely on the professional to give life to outdoor living dreams. The homeowner is in control and has the vision. The professional has the knowledge, experience, equipment, material suppliers and labor to make dreams a reality before the season fades. Life is short, so enjoy the great outdoors, especially when it can be done from your own backyard.