Elmhurst, IL

outdoor living contractor Elmhurst IL

Elevated Outdoor Living in Elmhurst: How We Built a Cozy Family Paver Patio with Dining and Fire Pit Nook

July 19, 20244 min read

When our clients in Elmhurst reached out to us, they were facing challenges with their raised patio. Over time, it had started to settle, and the steps leading down were becoming unstable. To make matters worse, the small seat walls surrounding the patio served little purpose, leaving the space feeling disjointed and inefficient. The clients wanted to transform the entire area—creating a larger, more functional outdoor living space that flowed seamlessly and featured a more contemporary design. As a trusted outdoor living contractor at Ross & Jack’s Landscaping, we were excited to take on this challenge and deliver the stunning, functional backyard retreat they envisioned.

An Unstable Patio in Need of a Skilled Paver Patio Contractor

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The existing patio was more than just outdated—it was structurally flawed and in desperate need of a complete redesign. Over time, the raised position of the patio had caused it to settle unevenly, making the steps not only unstable but also a safety concern. The small seat walls, which were originally intended to provide seating, failed to serve any real purpose. Instead of enhancing the space, they made the layout feel cramped and disconnected. The original design lacked cohesion and didn’t take full advantage of the backyard’s potential, especially with its slight slope. 

The client’s vision was clear: They wanted to expand the patio, improve the flow between different areas, and create a more modern, functional outdoor living space. It was clear that this was no simple makeover—it required a thoughtful blend of hardscape and design, along with functional softscapes, to truly bring the space to life.

Creating a Functional and Beautiful Space with Pavers and Retaining Walls

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As a trusted paver patio company in Elmhurst, we approached the project with a carefully thought-out plan to enhance the entire outdoor living area. The first step was to address the settling issues and build a sturdy foundation. Since the yard had a slope, we constructed retaining walls that would level out the space, providing a smooth and secure base for the new patio. These walls were designed not only for structural support but also as functional seat walls that would allow for ample seating around the fire pit nook.

With the foundation in place, we designed the patio using high-quality brick pavers, chosen for their durability and aesthetic appeal. The clean lines and well-placed patterns in the pavers helped to bring a contemporary feel to the space, matching the client’s desire for a more modern outdoor design. We incorporated a patio fire pit, creating a cozy nook for the family to gather around during cooler evenings. The new design focused on creating clear, smooth transitions through the space—ensuring that each patio area flowed seamlessly into the next.

A Perfect Blend of Hardscape and Softscape

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Once the hardscape elements were in place, we focused on the softscapes. Our team worked with the client to choose landscaping that would complement the new patio, adding greenery and texture while still keeping the design clean and contemporary. The softscapes included low-maintenance plants, shrubs, and decorative features that enhanced the overall feel of the outdoor space without overcrowding it.

The Outcome: A Stunning Paver Patio and Functional Outdoor Living Area

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The final outcome was a beautifully expanded outdoor living area that surpassed the client’s expectations. The paver patio provided a spacious, level area perfect for dining and relaxation, while the new seat walls added both structure and purpose. The fire pit nook became the heart of the patio, creating a cozy gathering spot for family conversations and evening get-togethers. By balancing outdoor landscape design elements, such as hardscape features with thoughtfully placed softscapes, we crafted a space that feels modern, inviting, and seamlessly connected to the natural surroundings.

Elmhurst Outdoor Living Design from Ross & Jack’s Landscaping

This newly designed patio not only solved the initial structural challenges but also gave the family a beautiful, versatile space to enjoy the outdoors. Whether it’s for dining, entertaining, or simply unwinding, this patio is now a true extension of their home.

If you’re looking to transform your backyard with a custom-designed patio, fire pit, or other outdoor features, Ross & Jack’s Landscaping brings the expertise and experience you need. As Elmhurst’s trusted outdoor living contractor and paver patio company, we specialize in crafting outdoor spaces tailored to your lifestyle. From fire pits to complete outdoor landscape design, our team of skilled brick paver contractors can bring your vision to life. Contact us today, and let’s start planning your ideal outdoor living space.


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