At Hardscapes of Holly Springs, we love turning ordinary outdoor spaces into extraordinary retreats. Recently, we had the pleasure of transforming an owner’s backyard into a beautiful, functional area where the family can relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors.
This pergola in Apex project involved the backyard of an end-unit townhome in a beautiful newly built development. The backyard space was compact but brimming with potential. The back patio area was level and framed by privacy fences on either side. The original setup featured a basic concrete pad and a patch of grass, with the home’s HVAC unit and gas meter discreetly tucked in the corner. Although the family enjoyed their outdoor area, it lacked the privacy and functionality they longed for, especially with neighboring homes in plain sight.
Eager to make the most of their outdoor living area, they turned to Hardscapes of Holly Springs to upgrade their space. They wanted a solution that expanded their usable area while offering more privacy and a modernized look. We accepted the challenge, ready to take their backyard to the next level.
We began by extending the concrete pad through the grass area, creating a larger, more functional patio. To enhance the space with both beauty and durability, we applied a USI stone overlay. This natural stone product has a cleft texture on top, meaning it retains its raw, unrefined surface, giving the patio a natural, rustic charm. The underside is milled flat, ensuring a smooth, even installation over a flat surface. Installed like tile, the stone overlay transformed the patio into a stunning, textured surface, giving the backyard a fresh yet organic look that perfectly balances elegance and durability. However, due to an easement restriction for underground drainage lines, the patio extension was limited to eight feet. The homeowners desired a larger patio, so we devised a creative solution by installing a section of non-permanent epoxy surface over gravel that extended over the area affected by the easement. This approach provided a durable, sturdy platform that significantly increased the patio’s size and functionality. The non-permanent nature of this section allows for easy removal if the utility company ever required access to the underground lines.
To further improve the design and functionality, we installed a large custom pergola that stretched across the entire back of the home. Supported by robust 6”× 6” beams, the pergola not only provided essential shade and privacy but also served as a striking architectural feature that tied the entire outdoor space together. We didn’t stop there. To conceal the HVAC unit and gas meter, our team built a plank-style screened wall with a porthole for easy access to the meter. We designed the woodwork to complement the pergola, ensuring the entire backyard exuded a cohesive, stylish aesthetic.
The result of this Pergola in Apex project was nothing short of a transformation. The once-basic townhome backyard was now a spacious, visually appealing outdoor retreat. With a larger, more functional patio, enhanced privacy, and thoughtfully designed elements, this family now has the perfect space to enjoy time outdoors—whether it’s for a quiet afternoon or hosting friends and family.
Thanks to Hardscapes of Holly Springs, this backyard went from ordinary to extraordinary, becoming the ultimate spot for relaxation and entertaining. Contact us today for a free consultation to see how we can transform your outdoor space into a beautiful, functional retreat that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. Let us help you create the perfect setting for your home!
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