Your backyard, designed and built by one licensed team
Custom outdoor living spaces, outdoor kitchens, hardscape, pools and landscape design. See your new backyard in 3D before construction starts, then let the same team build it.
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Resort-style outdoor living, built around how you live
From a single outdoor kitchen to a complete backyard transformation, every project is designed and built under one roof.
Backyard remodels
Complete redesigns bringing together layout, planting, hardscape and lighting.
Outdoor kitchens
Built-in grills, stone or concrete counters, sinks and refrigeration, designed for hosting.
Hardscape & patios
Patios, steps, retaining walls, pergolas and shade structures, built to last.
Landscape design
Planting plans by a licensed landscape architect, with native California plantings.
Pools & spas
Custom pools, spas and plunge pools, designed as part of the whole outdoor space.
Indoor-outdoor living
Bi-fold doors, covered living areas and fire features that connect home and garden.
One team, from first sketch to final walkthrough
Architecture and landscape are planned together, so your backyard works as one connected space.
Design and build under one roof
The team that designs your backyard builds it, so nothing is lost between designer and contractor.
Licensed in three trades
Licensed general contractor (B), landscape contractor (C-27) and pool contractor (C-53).
Landscape architect on the team
A licensed landscape architect plans your planting, led by a founder with a horticulture degree.
See it in 3D first
3D renderings and material palettes let you see your new backyard before construction starts.
Permits and HOA handled
We prepare permit documents, HOA review packages and engineering coordination for you.
A dedicated project manager
One point of contact, daily on-site supervision and quality inspections throughout the build.
From first conversation to finished backyard
A clear process with one team accountable at every stage.
Discovery & site visit
We walk your property, assess the site, soil, drainage and light, and learn how you want to live in the space.
Design & 3D renderings
Architecture and landscape designed together, with 3D renderings and material palettes for your review.
Permits & engineering
We handle permit documents, HOA approvals and coordination with engineers.
Build & walkthrough
Our team builds it with a dedicated project manager, then walks every element with you before completion.
A look at what we build
Backyards, outdoor kitchens, pools and gardens across Orange County and Los Angeles.
What homeowners say
“We hired Tom because he had great ideas, enthusiasm, and a clear vision. Tom designed our backyard, and his team brought that vision to life beautifully.”
“The consultation opened our eyes to what was possible. Through the design phase everything was spelled out and clear. Everything went well with construction, there were obvious change orders which happen all the time but all in all very solid company great execution and the end product is amazing. We enjoy it almost every day.”
“I had a great experience with Tom and his team at SDB. They completely redid our front and back yards with new plantings, earthworks, a fountain, a patio, etc. What really stood out for us is Tom's pragmatic, honest approach, and how easily he dives into problem-solving with us. I'd recommend him highly!”
“Tom, Katherine and their crew designed and installed beautiful landscaping, and they were easy to work with. Our family is extremely happy with the result of their design and installation. Some of our neighbors have told us how much they like seeing our yard when they walk in our neighborhood.”
“I hired Stout Design Build for a front & back rebuild and it was the right decision. Hire Tom if you want great design and work from someone who knows what they're doing.”
“Tom helped bring the vision for our backyard to life. After listening to our approach and lending his sound advice, Tom was able to quickly sketch up a wonderful backyard concept that we look forward to enjoying soon.”
“When Tom, from Stout Design-Build came to our home, he was very knowledgeable, he listened and understood what we were dreaming of and immediately proposed some very interesting designs which made us extremely excited. ... Now that our project is complete, we spend a lot of time using our backyard.”
“I highly recommend consulting with Stout before you begin your project. ... We picked Tom's brain regarding our backyard and he came up with creative ideas that we never would've come up with by ourselves.”
“You cannot go wrong by hiring Stout Design-Build! ... We get compliments from all of our neighbors all the time! Stout is professional, honest, patient and gets it done. I cannot recommend Tom and his team more!”
Serving Orange County and LA's Westside
Based in Huntington Beach, working on homes across coastal Orange County and select Los Angeles communities.
Orange County
Los Angeles
Not on the list? Get in touch and we'll let you know if we can help.
Good to know
How much does a backyard remodel cost?
Most Orange County backyard remodels run about $40,000 to $180,000, with sloped and coastal lots toward the upper end. Every quote is itemized, with no lump sums.
How long will my project take?
A patio and planting installation typically takes about 2 to 4 weeks. A full outdoor living space with a pool, kitchen and hardscape takes about 8 to 16 weeks. City permit processing is the main variable.
What happens at the design consultation?
We walk your property with you to assess the site, soil, drainage and light, and talk through how you want to use the space, your priorities, timeline and budget.
Do you handle permits?
Yes. Permits are part of our scope. Most outdoor projects involving grading, gas, electrical or structural work need permits, and retaining walls over 4 feet need engineering and a permit in every Orange County city. We handle submission, inspections and final sign-off.
Can you work with my HOA?
Yes. We prepare architectural review packages and research your HOA's approved materials and colors before we design. We've submitted packages in communities including Coto de Caza, Rancho Santa Margarita, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo and Laguna Woods.
Can you build on a sloped or hillside lot?
Yes, it's a specialty. We've completed projects on grade changes of 8 feet or more in Laguna Beach, Aliso Viejo and San Clemente, and handle grading plans, engineering coordination and permits in-house.
Are you licensed?
Yes. We hold California contractor licenses for general building (B), landscaping (C-27) and swimming pools (C-53), and have a licensed landscape architect on the team. License and bond information is available before you sign.
Will I see the design before you build?
Yes. The design phase includes 3D renderings, visual walkthroughs and material palettes, so you can see and refine your backyard before construction begins.
Ready to plan your new backyard?
Book a design consultation, or call us to talk through your project.