How We Doubled Our Backyard Pool Area and Boosted Function

For nearly a year we’ve been reimagining our pool area to create a larger, more multi-functional outdoor space.

It ended up being more than just moving a fence, so here’s a clear summary of what we did to maximize the yard:

• Moved a section of fencing to expand the pool area
• Built a platform deck to create a level outdoor dining space
• Poured permanent concrete walkways, stairs, and retaining walls

We also added a driveway and new pathways along the front of the house, but those details will be covered in a separate post. For now, let’s focus on the bigger, more functional pool area.

Video Walk-Through Day & Night

A video tour illustrates how the different zones flow together and how the space transforms at night when the outdoor lights come on. It’s a helpful way to see the full effect of the project.

Step 1: Moving The Fence

To pass the final pool inspection in 2021, the pool needed to be fully enclosed. We added a short section of fence at the time as a practical solution. Initially we thought that area might later host a small guest structure, but plans changed when we realized a nearby rental option worked better for visitors and preserved a large oak tree we didn’t want to remove.

Over time we noticed that the temporary fence section isolated a sizable portion of the yard that went unused. Last summer we finally moved the fence back to reclaim that space and include the area around our beloved oak tree, which we can now enjoy from the pool side. The old fence sections were repurposed elsewhere, and even the pavers found new life at another property.

Rebuilding the fence to include the previously underused area opened up a whole new layout opportunity. The tree swing moved to the other side of the house, and we started to experiment with furniture placement to visualize the new flow.

The view from above made it much easier to plan the new arrangement and helped us determine where to place a dining area, a firepit lounge, and connecting pathways.

Step 2: Building A Platform Deck For A Table

One goal of expanding the backyard was to bring more outdoor functions together. Previously the large dining table was on the upstairs deck and the firepit was on the other side of the house. Consolidating these features into one cohesive area made entertaining and daily life much easier.

We decided to build a simple platform deck in the back corner under the tree to provide a level surface for dining. The ground sloped slightly there, and we wanted a stable, shaded spot that felt integrated with the rest of the pool deck. We used Trex decking in Havannah Gold to match other areas of the house and to keep the look warm and natural rather than overwhelming the space with bright white hardscaping.

We made sure the new deck sits level with the pool pavers to create a seamless transition and to minimize tripping hazards. The deck stays shaded most of the day, so it has become our go-to spot for pool lunches, working outside, family game nights, and hosting friends.

Step 3: Adding Poured Concrete Walkways

We originally used inexpensive concrete pavers as a temporary solution for paths, but they shifted and felt too small for long-term use. After considering stone and various materials, we hired a local landscape professional who showed us a nearby project featuring large, poured-in-place concrete pavers that matched the aesthetic and durability we wanted.

The poured concrete pavers are a heavier, more permanent version of the temporary stones we had. Because our yard has a gentle grade, the scope included a retaining wall and steps to create level areas for seating and circulation. The work involved significant digging, framing, and multiple finishing steps to smooth and refine the concrete edges.

Watching the crew form and pour the concrete was impressive; the finished paths and steps give the property a polished, intentional look and should hold up for decades. That durability made poured concrete an appealing long-term choice for us.

Step 4: Adding A Sunken Firepit Area

To define the different zones and work with the site’s natural levels, we lowered the firepit area about 15 inches to create a sunken lounge adjacent to the pool and deck. The lowered area provides a cozy, defined space that complements the overall mid-century modern ’70s vibe of our house.

The space fits six Adirondack chairs comfortably and centers around a Solo Stove firepit, which burns cleanly with much less smoke than a traditional fire. We set the stove on a recycled concrete paver and surrounded it with marble chips. The result is a relaxed spot for evening gatherings, evening s’mores, or a cozy adult hangout while the kids swim.

We also added plug-in LED café lights for extra brightness over the firepit and dining area while keeping much of the yard on solar lighting. The strings are Alexa-enabled for easy control when we’re enjoying the backyard.

Beyond the pool zone, we improved the driveway and front walkways to complete the exterior transformation. Looking back on the project, what began as a few small adjustments turned into a full backyard renovation that now feels finished, welcoming, and highly functional for everyday life and entertaining.

Want To See More Outdoor Transformations?

If you’d like to catch up on other exterior updates and projects we completed, check out our before-and-after posts and walkthroughs that cover the house exterior, the grilling porch, the original pool installation, and our low-maintenance upper deck.

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