Case Study: Pool Deck & Outdoor Living Renovation in Poway, San Diego
Project Overview
SD Premier Outdoor was hired to transform a 40+ year-old pool deck and underused backyard into a modern, shade-friendly, water-wise outdoor living space. The scope combined a large Alumawood pergola, new paver pool deck, artificial turf, outdoor kitchen, lighting, and planting with irrigation—all planned to maximize comfort, safety, and daily usability.
Client’s Challenge
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- Broken, dated tile pool deck showing its age (40+ years).
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- Not enough shade and the space wasn’t used to its full potential.
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- Pool issues: many broken tiles and prior water leakage concerns.
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- Uneven dirt areas; significant grading needed.
The family wanted a safer, cleaner setting with better flow, and gaining a better view of the Poway landscape.
Our Solution
We designed a cohesive, low-maintenance renovation that delivers shade, safety, and style, while opening up usable square footage:
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- Large Alumawood Pergola (approx. 1,500 sq ft)
Broad, durable shade alongside the house and for outdoor kitchen with integrated recessed lighting and ceiling fans for comfort.
- Outdoor Kitchen (fully equipped)
Built-in BBQ, griddle, fridge, trash drawer, and storage drawers with a veneered BBQ face and a 3D-printed porcelain countertop for the quartzite look with easier fabrication.
- Paver Surfaces (3,500+ sq ft)
Large multi-level pool deck paved for a low-slip, modular surface for long-term maintainability.
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- Artificial Turf (≈ 2,800 sq ft)
Soft, pet-friendly, and water-saving; the family dog enjoys it more than natural lawn.
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- Planting & Irrigation
Tons of new plants matched to microclimates and a full irrigation system for efficient watering.
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- Lighting (50+ fixtures)
Low-voltage landscape lights define paths, highlight plantings, and extend evening use.
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- Cable-Rail Fence
A sleek cable-rail along the edge preserves an unobstructed view while meeting safety needs.
Our Process
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- Consultation & Design — Site walk, 3D virtual tour, and material selections; linear paver pattern chosen to visually expand the patio.
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- Preparation — Major dirt removal, demolition of the old pergola and old floor tile; grading for proper drainage.
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- Installation — Pergola, pavers, turf, kitchen, lighting, and irrigation installed to manufacturer standards and best practices.
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- Final Touches — Fans and lighting in the pergola, BBQ veneering, cable-rail, and system checks.
The Results
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- A resort-style feel of a backyard oasis.
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- Day-to-night comfort with ample shade, evening lighting, and better airflow.
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- Water savings from turf and efficient irrigation; pet-friendly surfaces the family uses daily.
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- A cohesive design that upgrades curb appeal and function, without blocking the view.
Watch the full Backyard Transformation video on YouTube.
