When our client in Ankeny, IA, reached out to us, they wanted to maximize their backyard area. While they have a small wooden deck, they were looking to create a larger, ground-level space perfect for hosting and spending time outside. To achieve this, our team started by installing a paver patio at the base of the deck steps along the back of the house. We also created a sunken section of the patio, where we put a fire pit so they could enjoy fireside warmth during those chilly nights! Then, as finishing touches to this project, we installed a rock landscape bed along one corner of the patio and added seed and straw to the lawn to fill it back in with grass.

Installing a Paver Patio Was the First Step of This Project

The first step of this project was to install our client's paver patio, which serves as the foundation of their new outdoor living space. We installed it at the base of the wooden deck steps along the house so they could access it from their back entrance or deck. Additionally, we used large concrete paving stones to build it, which we arranged in a running bond pattern. We also added darker gray concrete pavers to border the patio, further defining its shape.

We Created a Separate Section of the Patio to Build a Fire Pit

A paver patio in back of a home in Ankeny, IA, with a fire pit.

A fire pit was a must-have for our client's upgraded outdoor living space, but they wanted a separate section of the patio designated specifically for it. So, we created a sunken area at the corner, using smaller-sized concrete pavers compared to the larger patio ones arranged in an eye-catching herringbone pattern. This design difference was purposeful so that it's defined as its own area, but it adds visual interest and still complements the overall aesthetic. Once this patio section was built, we installed the fire pit! Its square shape fits perfectly in the center, allowing room around it for people to gather and enjoy its warmth.

Our fire pits can burn natural gas, wood, or propane to suit your fuel preferences.

The Finishing Touches of This Project Involved a Rock Landscape Bed & Lawn Repair

With the patio and fire pit installed, our team focused our attention on the finishing touches of this project. This involved incorporating a small landscape bed in the back corner of the house and patio, which we filled with gray trap rock to match the colors of the outdoor space. We also added small plants for hints of greenery.

During construction, the grass surrounding the area was damaged. So, we spread seeds and covered them with straw to fill the lawn back in with new grass. With these final steps complete, our client now has an equally beautiful and durable outdoor living space they can be proud of.

Want to transform your outside area? Call us to get started with our outdoor living services!

If you want to transform your outside area with functional, aesthetically appealing features, we're the team to turn to! At ETCH Outdoor Living, we design and build an impressive selection of outdoor living features, including patios, fire pits, and more. Only the best materials are used, and you can choose from various options to achieve your desired look. Plus, we will incorporate eye-catching landscaping elements to cultivate a cohesive design that makes a lasting impact on your property.

Our outdoor living services are available to residential and commercial properties, as well as HOAs, in Ankeny, Johnston, Urbandale, West Des Moines, Waukee, IA, and other nearby areas. Call us at (515) 654-5447 to get started with any of them today!