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We'll get to the backyard eventually.
That’s what Taylor and Morgan said when they bought their home in Benton, LA. The big yard was what sold them. Plenty of space. “Perfect for hosting,” they said.
Three years later? Still grass. No patio. No pergola. No place to gather, relax, or unwind.
We just didn’t know where to start, Morgan told us. “And by the time we got serious, we were overwhelmed.”
Sound familiar?
Let’s fix that. Because building a backyard that actually gets used starts with two simple structures: a patio and a pergola.
A patio is your foundation. It’s where life happens—grilling, dining, lounging. A pergola adds shape, shade, and structure. Together, they turn an empty lawn into a destination.
Want proof? Ask any family in Shreveport who added one and suddenly started eating dinner outside three nights a week.
You don’t need dozens of options. You need the right ones for your space and lifestyle. When it comes to patios, we usually start with:
- Brushed or stamped concrete
- Pavers for that premium finish
- Natural stone slabs if you want timeless
For pergolas:
- Wood or aluminum
- Attached or freestanding
- Options like lighting, fans, or retractable shades
Want to really elevate your backyard? Some of our favorite combinations include adding an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, or connecting to a deck or dock. It’s about planning for now and what’s next.
Here are a few things to think through before you get serious:
- What’s the main use for the space—relaxing, cooking, gathering?
- What direction does the sun hit your yard?
- Do you want partial or full shade?
- How many people do you want to comfortably host?
- Is the area flat, sloped, or holding water?
- Will this be one project or phased over time?
These questions keep the project grounded in your real life—not just Pinterest dreams.
Thinking about hiring a contractor? Ask them:
- Can I see similar work you’ve done in this area?
- Do you handle HOA approvals and permits?
- What’s your timeline and warranty?
- Is this all in-house work or subcontracted?
- Can I talk to a recent customer?
If they dodge any of those, you might want to dodge them.
Here’s a quick checklist to help you get organized:
- Decide how you want to use the space
- Choose the patio surface
- Pick a pergola style and material
- Map lighting, cooking, or fire features
- Account for sun, wind, and water
- Review local codes or HOA rules
- Plan lighting or outlets ahead of time
- Don’t forget furniture space!
For upkeep:
- Seal concrete every 2–3 years
- Keep pavers sanded and sealed to avoid weeds
- Stain wood pergolas annually
- Hose down aluminum and tighten screws seasonally
And now, the honest part. You shouldn’t build right now if:
- You’re renting
- You’re flipping the home soon
- Your yard floods and you haven’t fixed drainage
Handle those first, then build something that lasts.
If you’re in Shreveport, Bossier City, Waskom, or Marshall and want help thinking through it—without any pressure—we’ll meet you where you’re at.
Schedule your free outdoor design assessment here:
https://www.freeexteriorhomeassesment.com
Get inspiration and design ideas here:
https://www.bluetidepatios.com
Let’s create something you’ll actually use. Not someday. This season.
