With a backyard just 20 feet deep and 50 feet wide, our client wanted to make the most of every square foot by adding an outdoor entertaining area, a hot tub with a deck, a fireplace, a play space for the kids, and carefully selected plants.

• The biggest challenge? A massive two-tiered retaining wall that significantly limited the usable space.
• The goal? Integrate all these elements without overcrowding the space.

Bringing this vision to life required strategic thinking and the ability to adapt as needed. The design evolved through multiple iterations and various details were refined along the way. Brazilian Ipe Hardwood was used to create built-in bench seating, elegant stairs leading to the hot tub deck, and a seamless transition strip between the porch and backyard. Custom features set this space apart, including:

• A 9-foot tall, concrete-clad fireplace as the entertainment area’s focal point.
• A secondary gas fireplace for added warmth and ambiance.
• Retaining wall modifications to push the first-tier wall back, creating more space while adding striking plants.
• A dedicated play area with durable artificial grass for the kids to run and play.

The execution of this project came with its fair share of challenges, from difficult terrain to evolving design needs. With steep slopes and narrow access paths, we had to demolish and rebuild wooden stairs, replacing them with a ramp to bring in machinery. Structural integrity was crucial, so we collaborated with a geotechnical engineer to safely modify the retaining wall.

From precise woodwork to intricately designed fireplaces, every detail in this space was custom-crafted to balance form and function. And as the client’s vision evolved, we adapted—proving that thoughtful design and flexible execution are the keys to creating a space that’s stunning, practical, and comfortable.