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Custom Pool Design and Construction in La Verne, CA
A finished swimming pool may be defined by its shape, stonework, and surrounding deck, but its long-term performance starts with the construction underneath. For this La Verne, CA project, Modern Paving took the backyard from the initial design through excavation, structural construction, drainage, and final hardscape installation.
The custom backyard pool design combined a swimming pool with a raised spa, integrated steps, stacked stone, and a paver pool deck. Each stage was coordinated with the next, allowing the structural and finished elements to come together as one complete outdoor space.
Planning the Pool & Raised Spa Layout
The pool construction process began with determining how the new pool and spa would fit the property. Head designer Gary developed a custom layout that incorporated the swimming pool and raised spa while accounting for steps, surrounding deck space, circulation, and transitions through the backyard.
Planning the pool and spa combo together also established important construction details before digging began, including dimensions, elevations, plumbing routes, drainage requirements, and the location of the surrounding hardscape.
Excavating & Grading the Pool Site
Once the design was established, construction moved into the backyard. A bobcat/skid steer was used for pool excavation, removing soil and creating the footprint and depth required for the new structure.
The excavation had to correspond with the planned pool shape, steps, spa, and finished elevations. Site grading prepared the surrounding area for later construction while establishing how water would move through the finished space.
With the footprint formed and elevations established, work could move into the structural phase.
Reinforcing the Pool & Building the Raised Spa
Rebar reinforcement was installed throughout the excavated pool to create the steel framework for the concrete shell. This reinforcement forms an important part of the pool's underlying structure before the concrete is applied.
Construction also progressed on the raised spa. Masonry block was used to form its elevated structure, preparing it for the stone finish that would be added later.
These components are largely hidden once construction is complete, but they provide the framework behind the finished pool and spa.
Forming the Gunite Pool Shell & Steps
With the steel reinforcement in place, the gunite pool shell was sprayed and shaped over the framework. This formed the pool walls, floor, contours, and integrated pool steps.
At this point, the excavated footprint took on the permanent shape of the swimming pool. Forming the steps as part of the shell also integrated access directly into the overall pool design.
Once the structural shell was established, attention could turn to the systems surrounding it.
Installing Plumbing & Drainage
Before the paver deck and patio were installed, plumbing and drain lines were coordinated around the pool area. Completing this work before the hardscape allowed these systems to be integrated with the site's finished elevations.
Drainage is particularly important around swimming pools because rain, splash-out, and runoff from paved surfaces need somewhere to go. The drainage system works with the grading to direct water appropriately rather than allowing it to collect around the pool and patio.
Addressing water management at this stage makes drainage part of the construction plan rather than an issue to solve after the finished surfaces are installed.
Finishing the Raised Spa with Stacked Stone
With the main structural work complete, the project moved into its visible finishes. Stacked stone veneer was installed around the raised spa wall, giving the elevated structure texture and definition.
The stone also created a visual connection between the spa and surrounding hardscape, helping the raised feature feel integrated into the overall backyard rather than added separately.
Installing the Paver Pool Deck & Patio
Pavers were then installed around the full pool perimeter and continued through the steps and adjoining patio areas. The result was a connected hardscape surface providing room for circulation, seating, and everyday use around the water.
The paver pool deck had to work with the elevations and drainage established during the earlier construction stages. Extending the pavers beyond the immediate pool edge also connected the new pool and raised spa with the larger patio area.
This final hardscape phase brought the individual components of the project together and completed the transition from active construction site to finished backyard.
From Excavation to a Finished Backyard Pool
This La Verne project demonstrates why the finished appearance is only part of a custom pool build. The stacked-stone raised spa and paver deck provide the visible finishing details, while the excavation, reinforcement, gunite shell, plumbing, and drainage provide the structure behind them.
By coordinating these elements as one project, Modern Paving carried the original backyard pool design through construction and final hardscape installation.
Start Your Outdoor Living Project in La Verne, CA
Planning a new swimming pool, raised spa, or complete backyard transformation? Modern Paving provides custom pool design and installation, coordinating the structural work and surrounding hardscape from the initial layout through the finished outdoor space.
Contact Modern Paving at 855-955-7283 or via our online form to schedule a free consultation to discuss your project with a custom pool builder and swimming pool contractor serving La Verne, CA.