This project was a total “out with the old, in with the better” situation. Before the crew showed up, this backyard was struggling with an aging deck, a cracked concrete pad, and steps that weren’t doing anyone any favors.
Our goal was a complete hardscape glow-up that feels as solid as it looks. Here’s how the ScenicFX team took this Northeast Ohio space from dated to high-def.

Locally-Sourced Stairs
First off, let’s talk about those steps. We’re big fans of keeping things local, so these are solid Ohio-quarried sandstone.
Besides just looking incredible against the siding, these are a massive safety upgrade. The old steps were cramped; these are wider, deeper, and way more stable. There’s something about the natural grain of real stone that concrete just can’t mimic. It gives the entrance to the house a permanent, grounded feel that’ll look just as good twenty years from now.
Crisp Lines & Hidden Corners
Moving from the steps onto the patio, the team went with a multi-tonal paver layout. To keep it from looking like “just another patio,” we framed it with a dark charcoal border.
If you’re a fan of the details, check out those 90-degree mitered corners. It’s a small technical touch, but it’s what separates a DIY job from a professional install. It creates a clean, intentional frame that makes the whole area pop.

Privacy Without the “Closed-In” Feel
Nobody wants to feel like they’re on display while they’re trying to enjoy a morning coffee. We put in a custom horizontal privacy fence to create a secluded nook. By using horizontal slats instead of the traditional vertical style, the backyard stays feeling modern and airy rather than blocked off.

The Finishing Touches
To tie the whole look together, we installed black powder-coated aluminum railings. They’re sleek, low-maintenance (a must for Ohio winters), and they really “set off” the earthy tones of the sandstone.
The end result? A backyard that’s actually functional, way safer, and has some serious curb appeal. If you saw the “before,” you know just how much of a 180 this was. It’s clean, it’s new, and it’s ready for patio season.
Ready to bring your outdoor vision to life?
If you’re in Northeast Ohio and looking to take your outdoor space from “fine” to “favorite place to be,” let’s make it happen. Whether you’re dreaming of local sandstone steps or a custom patio layout that actually fits your lifestyle, the team is ready to build it.
Click here to get your free project estimate and let’s get your transformation on the calendar!