Backyard Hardscape & Landscape Refresh in Santee, CA
When homeowners in Santee, CA contacted Golden Roots Landscape & Design, they were ready to turn a basic backyard into a functional and modern outdoor retreat. Like many San Diego County homes, their yard had great potential, but lacked structure, shade, and flow. Our team combined hardscape and landscape upgrades to create a cohesive design built for relaxation and entertaining.
Project Overview: Blending Function & Style
This Santee backyard refresh combined several core services; hardscape, turf installation, and landscape design to bring both beauty and practicality.
The Challenge
The original yard had uneven ground, limited greenery, and outdated concrete. The homeowners wanted a space that was low-maintenance but visually appealing.
The Vision
Our landscape designers proposed a modern hardscape layout anchored by decomposed granite, integrated turf, and improved drainage to prevent any pooling during the short, but heavy rainy season.
The Solution
We removed existing materials, graded the space for better drainage, and installed a custom hardscape system that unified the yard with clean geometry and soft greenery.
Key Hardscape & Landscape Features
Decomposed Granite (DG) Zones
The project incorporates smooth, naturally textured decomposed granite finishes that replace traditional mulch or plain turf strips creating clean transitional zones that tie the patio, turf and garden areas together.
Turf Base Upgrade for Drainage & Use
The turf area was re-compacted and infilled with sand to improve drainage and usability, ensuring the lawn stays level, functional, and ready for family use. The new turf neatly abuts the DG and hardscape edges for a crisp contrast.
Garden Wall & Defined Edges
A new garden wall frames the backyard space, establishes defined zones and provides structure. The crisp edges between turf, DG and planting beds give the yard that tailored, modern look while improving functionality.
Hardscape Pathways & Flow
Smooth walkways and hardscape pads create clear movement through the space from seating to turf, to planting zones. The clean lines and material transitions contribute to the modern aesthetic while supporting usability.
The Final Transformation
What began as a basic, uneven yard has been completely reimagined into a balanced, low-maintenance outdoor retreat. The decomposed granite zones now define pathways and open areas, while upgraded turf provides a lush, functional lawn perfect for gatherings or family play. A clean new garden wall frames the space and gives structure to the layout, tying together the DG, turf, and planting areas into one cohesive design. The result is a modern, practical backyard that blends comfort, usability, and curb appeal perfectly suited for Santee’s warm, sunny climate.
This Santee backyard refresh is a true example of how Golden Roots Landscape & Design brings craftsmanship and creativity to every project. Through smart drainage, durable materials, and modern finishes, our team delivered a space that’s both beautiful and built to last.
Ready to elevate your outdoor space? Whether you’re looking to revamp your backyard in Santee, El Cajon, or anywhere across San Diego County, Golden Roots Landscape & Design can bring your vision to life.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and start your hardscape or landscape transformation.