How to phase a backyard remodel in the East Bay
Short answer
A big backyard remodel can be built in stages. The usual order is: grading, drainage and walls first; then patios, paths and other paving; then turf, planting and irrigation; and finally fire pits, water features and lighting. Planning the whole yard up front — including where wiring, drain lines and gas or water lines will run — avoids tearing up finished work later.
- Water pooling or soggy spots? See how Jorge handles French drains and yard drainage →
- Planning a grill area too? See outdoor kitchens & BBQ islands, with appliances and gas lines →
- Have a pool? See pool decks & poolside patios →
Plan the whole yard once
Even if you build in stages, decide the full layout first. Knowing where the patio, fire pit, lawn and lights will go lets the early stages leave room — and conduit or sleeves — for what comes later.
A common order of work
Stage 1 — ground work: grading, yard drainage and any retaining walls. Water and slope affect everything built on top.
Stage 2 — paving: patios, walkways, driveways and pool decks in pavers or concrete.
Stage 3 — soft surfaces: artificial turf, lawn, planting beds and irrigation.
Stage 4 — features: fire pits and seating, water features and outdoor lighting.
Real Brentwood examples
Valle's backyard combines patios, a fire pit with seating, lawn, planting and a fountain — the kind of full-yard scope that benefits from one plan.
Bryan's project paired a paver patio with turf and a paver-and-turf grid side yard, and Kat's front yard was converted to artificial turf.
Talk it through with Jorge
Jorge can walk the yard, talk about which parts matter most to you now, and explain how the work could be split. Photos of the current yard help him plan before the visit.
Real projects in this guide
Common questions
- Can I build my backyard in phases?
- Yes. Many homeowners start with drainage and paving and add turf, planting, fire pits or lighting later. Planning the full layout first keeps later stages from undoing earlier work.
- What should be done first in a backyard remodel?
- Grading, drainage and any retaining walls usually come first, followed by patios and paths, because everything else sits on top of them.
- Can lighting be added later?
- Yes. Low-voltage lighting can be added after paving and planting, and it's easier when the plan leaves a path for wiring under patios and walkways.
Talk it through with Jorge
Every yard is different. Call and Jorge will tell you what he'd do with yours.
925-679-0350