The desire for luxurious outdoor living spaces is growing in Santa Cruz County and throughout coastal California. Homeowners want their backyards to be seamless and functional extensions of the home, where family and friends can gather to socialize, recharge, and enjoy the fresh ocean air. In this article we look at a selection of our favorite before-and-after design projects we’ve completed to show you exactly what’s possible with careful planning, a creative vision, and expert construction.
From Basic to Breathtaking – Ipe Deck Remodels in Aptos, CA
BEFORE
Before
The original deck in this stunning Aptos property had become unsafe due to aging materials and weathered structures. It also no longer provided the comfort and aesthetics the homeowners needed. The family wanted a bigger and more versatile space with an outdoor kitchen at its heart, and a place where loved ones and guests could safely gather to cook, dine, party, and enjoy the incredible views across Monterey Bay.
After
The transformation our team delivered more than doubled the deck’s size and introduced a seamless flow between the home’s interior and exterior with new double bi-parting doors. The revamped outdoor area features a full outdoor kitchen, including a BBQ, pizza oven, and refrigerator.
A robust steel moment frame was designed to provide essential support on the steep slope, while the decking was made of Ipe wood, known for its incredible durability and beauty. Glass railings preserve the ocean panorama while taller redwood elements provide privacy and wind protection.
“Ipe was a natural choice for these homeowners. It’s not only stunning, but it holds up incredibly well in our marine climate. We wanted their deck to be a long-term investment,” says Danielle Grenier, Lead Architect at Talmadge Construction.
Oceanfront Outdoor Living Remodels in Capitola and Aptos, CA
CAPITOLA PROJECT BEFORE
Before
Oceanfront homes in Capitola and Aptos offer some of the most breathtaking views in Santa Cruz County. The problem is that the coastal environment is not without its challenges. In Aptos, one family wanted a large deck with a built-in hot tub, but their existing structure couldn’t withstand the harsh salt air, wind, bright sunlight, and moisture.
In Capitola, homeowners faced a different issue: erosion concerns and a need for landscaping that could endure drought while still enhancing their cliffside retreat.
After
For the Aptos project, our team of designers and builders at Talmadge Construction designed a deck framed to accommodate Ipe wood tiles around the hot tub. Stainless steel posts and cable railing preserve beautiful views while resisting saltwater corrosion and wind damage. The result is a gorgeous, weather-resistant deck with custom seating that provides a breathtaking 180-degree view of the ocean.
For the Capitola property, Talmadge partnered with a landscape architect to address the erosion issue and create a drought-tolerant design. Drought-resistant plants were planted and effective water diversion strategies were implemented. The outdoor living space is now sustainable, enduring, and inviting.
A Modern Sanctuary – Japandi Pool House in Corralitos, CA
BEFORE
Before
In the scenic hills of Corralitos, the homeowners of this beautiful property already had a built-in pool, custom outdoor kitchen, and a cozy firepit and seating area. But there was little sun cover and no dedicated poolside retreat. The outside area felt incomplete for both everyday use and the larger family gatherings they envisioned. Their dream was a Japandi-inspired pool house that would blend seamlessly with the existing architecture and provide a venue for future memories.
After
Talmadge Construction designed and built a modern pool house sanctuary that balances Japanese simplicity with Scandinavian warmth. Custom Nano glass doors frame views of the pool and gardens, while Douglas Fir beams add texture and depth. Inside, Gold Ekho Strutt porcelain tile provides a non-slip, durable surface with understated elegance.
Painted in calming tones and enhanced by the owner’s Asian-inspired décor, the space now offers shade, serenity, and a stylish venue for family occasions and entertaining guests.
“The ‘Japandi’ aesthetic gave us a strong design language. We brought in elements like natural wood, open-air transitions, and warm lighting to connect the structure with the landscape,” says Danielle Grenier.
Whole-Home Exterior Remodel in Pasatiempo, CA
BEFORE
Before
This property was not meeting its potential, which was a shame in the warm climate of Pasatiempo. The exterior was bland and dated, while the backyard lacked cohesion and aesthetic charm. The homeowners wanted a space where they could be proud to host gatherings or simply relax.
After
Our integrated team at Talmadge Construction created a seamless connection between inside and outside. A stone-paved patio now flows directly from the house, with the outdoor kitchen positioned for easy access to the interior. An eye-catching stone fireplace anchors the pergola and adds warmth for evening and winter gatherings.
“Our goal was to create flow between the home’s interior and exterior. Now the outdoor areas feel like natural extensions of the home, perfect for entertaining or unwinding,” says Andrew Talmadge, President of Talmadge Construction.
The multi-level yard includes a traditional garden with crushed granite paths and a built-in stone seat for quiet reflection. There are also steps leading to a raised vegetable garden, in keeping with the homeowner’s desires.
How to Design and Build an Outdoor Living Space
All of these transformations were possible because of our design-build approach to outdoor remodeling, which brings the architect/designer, contractor, and homeowner together as one team. With design-build, design choices and costs are reviewed side by side, so homeowners know exactly how decisions impact the finished space. Any changes or challenges that surface are addressed in real time, with updates made to align with the schedule.
By streamlining communication and eliminating gaps between design and construction, the process reduces stress and prevents costly surprises. Our integrated process means there’s more time and ability to ensure outdoor kitchens, pool houses, and oceanfront decks are designed for beauty, durability, safety, and function while staying inside your budget.
Hire an Exterior Remodeling Contractor in Santa Cruz County
Choosing the right design-build contractor makes all the difference when it comes to high-quality outdoor remodeling. With deep roots in Santa Cruz County, Talmadge Construction has decades of experience designing and building outdoor living spaces that work with the coastal climate and the character of local homes. We’ve been doing so for over 40 years and would love to help you as well.
From expansive oceanfront decks to quiet garden retreats, every project is shaped by intentional design, expert craftsmanship, and a commitment to clear communication. As a community-focused design-build firm, we’re also passionate about eco-friendly design and exceptional customer service.
Are you looking to remodel or extend your coastal property? Or transform a fixer-upper? We’ll be with you every step of the way.
Here at Talmadge, we place our reputation for integrity at the center of everything we do, advocating for homeowners because they deserve a remodel that makes life easier. Recognizing that Santa Cruz County homeowners are our neighbors and fellow business owners, we place equal importance on contributing to the community’s growth, including being a strong supporter of education. We firmly believe that improving people’s lives at home and through education translates to better societies.
When you remodel with Talmadge, you directly support education in the local community.
To arrange a free consultation with one of our friendly team, call us today at 831.689.9133.