Planning a Full Outdoor Living Space – Patios, Fire, Water & More
Planning a Full Outdoor Living Space – Patios, Fire, Water & More
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Build It Like a Room, Not a Yard
A truly great outdoor living space isn’t just a patio or a fire pit — it’s a full environment that brings comfort, flow, and function together. Whether you’re dreaming of family dinners under the stars or a retreat that feels like a second living room, this guide walks you through how we design Colorado outdoor spaces that work year-round.
1. Start With Zones, Not Just Features
1. Start With Zones, Not Just Features
We don’t drop a patio, fire pit, and grill in random spots. Instead, we create purpose-built zones, like:
Dining area (with room for a full table and chairs)
Lounge zone with built-in fire pit or seating wall
Cooking/prep area if an outdoor kitchen is planned
Softeners like plant beds, water features, or lighting paths
Your outdoor space should flow like your home — defined, but connected.
2. Think Function First, Then Design
2. Think Function First, Then Design
Before picking pavers or a pergola style, ask:
How many people will regularly use this?
Is this for dining, relaxing, or entertaining?
Do you want open sky or covered zones?
Do you need privacy or open views?
Your answers determine layout, material choices, and budget priorities.
3. What We Recommend for Colorado Outdoor Living
3. What We Recommend for Colorado Outdoor Living
Paver Patio Base:
Stronger than concrete for freeze-thaw performance
Drainable, repairable, and customizable
Can support fire features, pergolas, or kitchen weight
Built-In Fire Pit or Fireplace:
Adds heat and light
Can define a cozy zone in large yards
Gas or wood depending on rules and lifestyle
Pondless Water Feature or Bubbling Rock:
Brings soothing sound and movement
Low maintenance
Safe for pets and kids
Pergola or Shade Structure:
Defines space and creates comfort
Can support lights, vines, or curtains
Open or covered depending on goals
Softscaping:
Plant beds, border trees, and lighting tie it all together
Use drought-tolerant, zone-appropriate plants for long-term success
4. Planning for Utilities and Codes
4. Planning for Utilities and Codes
A successful outdoor build includes:
Gas/electric line trenching for kitchens or lighting
Drainage design for patios and water features
Permit compliance for covered structures or gas fire pits
Access for machinery and staging — critical in tight suburban yards
We manage all logistics upfront so the build goes smoothly.
5. Budget Ranges (2025 Estimates)
5. Budget Ranges (2025 Estimates)
Basic patio + fire pit: $12K–$20K
Patio + fire + pergola: $20K–$35K
Full outdoor living space with kitchen and water feature: $35K–$75K+
Phased builds available: We design for now and later.
Related Services:
Related Services:
Want a Yard That Feels Like a Vacation Destination?
Want a Yard That Feels Like a Vacation Destination?
We’ll design your outdoor living space around how you live — and build it with craftsmanship that lasts for years.
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