Hello, it's Doug, the Two Minute Gardener. This video presents three unique backyard makeovers in San Diego, perfect for those seeking landscaping ideas for small spaces. We showcase diverse backyard upgrade ideas, highlighting different materials and styles to inspire your outdoor living space. Watch to see these backyard before and after makeovers and get inspired for your own backyard design!
Thinking about remodeling your backyard but working with limited space? In this video, I walk you through 3 small backyard makeovers that I personally designed—each with a completely different style and purpose.
Here is the blog of Doug Kalal from Great Gardens Landscape Design. Use the search box to find lots of great ideas for your landscape.
Showing posts with label Outdoor Recreation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Outdoor Recreation. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Video - 3 Small Backyard Makeovers That Will Inspire Your Landscape Remodel
Monday, January 19, 2026
Video - Custom Hot Tub vs Prefab Hot Tub: What’s the Difference & How Much Do Th...
What’s the difference between a custom hot tub and a prefab (factory-built) hot tub? How much do they really cost? In this short video, we break down the key differences, pricing, pros, and cons of each option to help you decide which hot tub is right for your backyard and budget.
Whether you’re planning a luxury outdoor space or just starting your research, this video explains what you need to know before buying or building a hot tub.
Thursday, January 8, 2026
Video - How to lift an 1,800 lb hot tub over a house
Installing a hot tub isn’t always simple—especially when it weighs 1,800 pounds and has to be lifted over a house!
In this video, watch as we use a crane to carefully lift and place a massive hot tub into a backyard with limited access. This extreme spa installation shows how professional crane lifts make impossible hot tub installs possible.
Monday, January 5, 2026
Video - Incredible Sloped Backyard Transformation Using a Retaining Wall | Full ...
Transforming a sloped backyard doesn’t have to be impossible! In this video, we show how we used a retaining wall to completely reshape a challenging sloped yard into a functional and beautiful outdoor space.
This backyard makeover now features:
A sturdy retaining wall to create level areas
A stylish brick patio for entertaining
A relaxing jacuzzi
A fun and safe kids play area
If you’re looking for backyard landscaping ideas, retaining wall inspiration, or ways to turn a steep slope into usable outdoor living space, this project is full of ideas you can apply to your own yard.
Sunday, December 28, 2025
Video - How to Create More Flat Space in Your Backyard
Looking for retaining wall ideas to create flat, usable space in your front or backyard? This quick video showcases various methods for building retaining walls, including CMU blocks and rock, perfect for any home improvement project.
Whether you're planning a DIY project or working with a landscaper, these retaining wall construction methods can help you maximize space and boost curb appeal. Learn how to build functional walls and discover backyard design ideas to elevate your outdoor living.
π Like this video for more landscaping and construction projects, and don’t forget to subscribe for design ideas, DIY tips, and big backyard transformations!
π Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to follow the full series of small backyard design ideas!
Looking for more patio ideas? Check out these books:
https://amzn.to/3ixeAhM
https://amzn.to/3DepGjk
Video by Doug Kalal, Great Gardens Landscape Design
Monday, November 17, 2025
Video - How to Make Your Block Wall Look Amazing
Is your backyard block wall an eyesore? In this video, I’ll show you a simple, affordable way to give your ugly block wall a beautiful makeover. Whether your wall is cracked, faded, or just plain boring, these easy upgrades will instantly improve your yard’s look and feel.
You’ll learn:
• How to prep and update a block wall
• Simple DIY makeover techniques
• Affordable materials that make a big impact
• Design ideas to give your backyard a fresh, modern look
If you want a fast and budget-friendly way to transform your outdoor space, this block wall makeover will inspire your next backyard project.
π Subscribe for more landscaping ideas, DIY backyard upgrades, and garden design tips!
Are you tired of looking at your ugly block wall in your yard? Here is a simple way to give that wall a beautiful makeover. Thank you to Juan at Unique Landscaping for his help in making this video.
Looking for more wall ideas? Check out these books;
https://amzn.to/3O6hclN
https://amzn.to/3ixeAhM
https://amzn.to/3DepGjk
https://amzn.to/3lwOmxK
Video by Doug Kalal, Great Gardens Landscape Design
Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Video - Landscape Design Tips for a Kid-Friendly Backyard | Safe & Fun Outdoor I...
Looking to create a beautiful, kid-friendly backyard? πΏ In this video, I share professional landscape design tips for building a safe, fun, and low-maintenance outdoor space your whole family will love. Learn how to blend play areas, shade, soft surfaces, and drought-tolerant plants into a landscape that’s both functional and stylish.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or remodeling your yard, these ideas will help you design a backyard where kids can explore, play, and grow safely — while keeping it beautiful for adults too!
π Topics Covered:
Kid-safe landscape design ideas
Backyard play zones & soft surfaces
Family-friendly plants & materials
How to balance play and style in your yard
✅ Subscribe for more landscape design tips, backyard makeovers, and outdoor living ideas!
We transformed the back yard into a little kid's dream play area with artificial grass, a giant play structure and lovely patio for the parents to watch the play unfold. The pavers we used are called Antique Cobble, color - Sky Ranch. This video was shot in San Diego, California.
Here's a link to the play structure in the video plus some other good ones:
https://amzn.to/3STzgTG
https://amzn.to/43dTX1n
https://amzn.to/4qFhbaD
https://amzn.to/4hMq1zy
Looking for more landscape makeover ideas? Check out these books:
https://amzn.to/3mYIFfv
https://amzn.to/3ixeAhM
https://amzn.to/3DepGjk
https://amzn.to/3lwOmxK
πHere are some more videos from my channel to help you with your landscape:
https://youtu.be/tAh6riCutoE?si=grPKTWXJjGEgM1DO
https://youtu.be/DnCOZMfYwV4?si=ARGtI3sThIEfI6Lt
https://youtu.be/dGM-riZLv8U?si=_2IuPdRLz5biIjIi
https://youtu.be/Ynp3RPCrSEc?si=RMjlGRL1aC0TgAnT
https://youtu.be/VHfIzvqHHN4?si=N38N8sQTr7VCUEdD
Video by Doug Kalal, Great Gardens Landscape Design
Friday, October 31, 2025
Video - Outdoor Kitchen Tournament Showdown! Match #4
It’s time for the Outdoor Kitchen Tournament! Match #4
π₯ Two incredible backyard kitchens go head-to-head — and you decide who moves on to the next round.
Check out each design, vote for your favorite in the comments, and help crown the Ultimate Outdoor Kitchen Champion!
From sleek modern styles to cozy rustic designs, this tournament will showcase some of the most creative outdoor kitchens around. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the action!
π Vote below and make your pick before the next round begins!
π‘ Subscribe for more backyard inspiration, landscaping ideas, and tournament updates.
Here are some books to give you more ideas on patios.
https://amzn.to/3ixeAhM
https://amzn.to/3DepGjk
https://amzn.to/3lwOmxK
This video was shot in San Diego, California.
Here are some of the grills and accessories featured in this tournament:
https://amzn.to/31FjIL6
https://amzn.to/31yofiE
https://amzn.to/3xZEn8C
https://amzn.to/3Ise0gf
https://amzn.to/3GoMM8q
https://amzn.to/3pRoygP
https://amzn.to/3EyILOv
https://amzn.to/338DdfJ
Video by Doug Kalal, Great Gardens Landscape Design
Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Video - How to Build a Large Paver Patio
Watch this large-scale paver patio project come to life from start to finish!
In this video, we install 2,100 square feet of Angelus Courtyard pavers in the Gray / Pewter / Charcoal color blend — a beautiful and durable choice for any outdoor living space.
You’ll see every step of the process, from grading and base prep to compaction, laying patterns, and final cleanup. If you’re planning your own backyard makeover or patio remodel, this video will give you real-world insight into what a professional paver installation looks like.
Project Details:
π‘ Patio Size: 2,100 sq ft
π§± Paver Brand: Angelus
π¨ Style: Courtyard
π¨ Color: Gray / Pewter / Charcoal
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, landscape designer, or homeowner looking for patio ideas, this video will help you understand the full scope of a large paver patio build.
π Subscribe for more landscape design tips, outdoor living ideas, and real-life installation videos!
Here is how a large paver patio is done from start to finish. We used 2,100 sq ft of Angelus pavers for this project. The style is Courtyard, the color is Gray/Pewter/Charcoal.
πHere are some more videos from my channel to help you with your landscape:
https://youtu.be/bcc4toaOo5g?si=KAPb_uBC6__VFJag
https://youtu.be/xLqriAj-YII?si=V2C8CV-n_f40JI_J
https://youtu.be/DzseHs4xeZQ?si=y7CQJ3p-YtaFRWDz
https://youtu.be/jut5cyW18pU?si=UVzQFC6o28__rOiR
https://youtu.be/OEud536RFU8?si=hKJomwXfBiB9xEPA
Looking for more patio ideas? Check out these books:
https://amzn.to/3ixeAhM
https://amzn.to/3DepGjk
Here is a link to the products in this video:
https://www.angeluspavingstones.com/
π Like this video for more landscaping and construction projects, and don’t forget to subscribe for design ideas, DIY tips, and big backyard transformations!
Video by Doug Kalal, Great Gardens Landscape Design
Sunday, October 19, 2025
Video - 40 Front Yard Makeover Ideas
Thinking about remodeling your front yard? πΏ Get inspired with 40 stunning front yard makeover ideas filmed across San Diego, California.
This video showcases a wide variety of real front yard designs including:
10 pathways (flagstone, paver, and concrete designs)
9 stairs with creative materials and layouts
9 walls for structure and privacy
5 driveways featuring both pavers and concrete finishes
4 patios perfect for relaxing or entertaining
2 examples of interior pathways and landscape lighting
Whether you’re planning a complete front yard renovation or just looking for fresh ideas, these designs will help you visualize what’s possible in your own landscape.
π Filmed on location in San Diego, CA
π₯ Subscribe for more landscape design inspiration and makeover ideas from real homes!
Friday, October 10, 2025
Video - Landscape Makeover From Brick Mess to Backyard Paradise!
Welcome to another edition of Landscape Makeover! In this episode, we take on a backyard that was trapped in a maze of bricks, pillars, walls, and fences — and completely transform it into a luxurious outdoor space made for entertaining.
This backyard remodel features:
πΏ A modern outdoor kitchen perfect for gatherings
π¦ A sparkling pool and relaxing hot tub
πΎ A large dog-friendly yard
πΊ An outdoor TV room for year-round enjoyment
Watch as this cluttered space becomes an elegant backyard retreat that blends comfort, function, and beauty. Whether you’re dreaming of adding a pool, upgrading your patio, or creating a dog-friendly outdoor area, this transformation is full of ideas and inspiration.. This video was shot in San Diego, California.
Looking for more patio ideas? Check out these books;
https://amzn.to/3ixeAhM
https://amzn.to/3DepGjk
https://amzn.to/3lwOmxK
πHere are some more videos from my channel to help you with your landscape:
https://youtu.be/Ynp3RPCrSEc?si=RMjlGRL1aC0TgAnT
https://youtu.be/a0VF5dBchZU?si=M4kii7hEiU4RD9Si
https://youtu.be/7JwLggNZ03Q?si=u29pTu9tqA1u-ywc
https://youtu.be/VkTavKdZ3tw?si=WaGeRFT18gAjpqu7
https://youtu.be/Nq6fo0Oe3C8?si=I2t5LChzDibTRC-n
https://youtu.be/Essh0jb2yVc?si=v_TOnI7cY_ImdXVL
Video by Doug Kalal, Great Gardens Landscape Design
Saturday, October 4, 2025
Video - 20 Outdoor Hot Tub Ideas | Backyard Spa Designs You’ll Love
Ready to design your own backyard dream oasis? This video is packed with backyard pool ideas for creating the perfect outdoor living space. From stunning water features to creative landscaping, get inspired to design your swimming pools.
✨ Subscribe for more backyard design ideas, outdoor living inspiration, and landscaping tips to make your space both beautiful and functional!
Looking for more landscape ideas? Check out these books;
https://amzn.to/3O6hclN
https://amzn.to/3ixeAhM
https://amzn.to/3DepGjk
https://amzn.to/3lwOmxK
πHere are some more videos from my channel to help you with your landscape:
https://youtu.be/xLqriAj-YII?si=V2C8CV-n_f40JI_J
https://youtu.be/DzseHs4xeZQ?si=y7CQJ3p-YtaFRWDz
https://youtu.be/jut5cyW18pU?si=UVzQFC6o28__rOiR
Video by Doug Kalal, Great Gardens Landscape Design
#HotTubIdeas #BackyardDesign #OutdoorLiving #BackyardInspiration #JacuzziIdeas #BackyardSpa #HotTubDesign
Thursday, September 25, 2025
Video - How to Build a Curved Retaining Wall for a Stunning Brick Patio | DIY La...
Learn how to build a beautiful curved retaining wall to support a brand-new brick patio! In this step-by-step DIY landscaping guide, we cover everything from layout and digging to stacking and leveling your blocks. This project will completely transform your backyard and create the perfect space for outdoor living. Time for a backyard makeover! Watch as we build a paver patio, adding an amazing outdoor living space to the backyard design. This DIY project is a great way to add landscaping and home improvement value!
If you love backyard makeovers and hardscaping tips, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for more landscaping inspiration
Here are some links for cool demolition tools;
https://amzn.to/46qgSbT
https://amzn.to/46xOZ0b
https://amzn.to/4gxixzw
https://amzn.to/47PwJBK
https://amzn.to/47ZDh0R
Video by Doug Kalal, Great Gardens Landscape Design
Sunday, September 14, 2025
Video - 20 Pool Design Ideas to Transform Your Backyard | Stunning & Creative Po...
Discover 20 stunning pool design ideas to transform your backyard into the ultimate outdoor oasis. In this video, we explore creative pool shapes, modern pool landscaping, and stylish features like waterfalls, lighting, and built-in seating that can take your backyard design to the next level. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for a small pool, a luxury resort-style pool, or a simple and budget-friendly design, these ideas will help you create a beautiful and functional outdoor space. Perfect for homeowners planning a new pool or updating an existing one, these pool design tips will spark your imagination and help you bring your dream backyard to life.
Thank you to Premier Pools and Unique Landscaping. They did a great job on these projects.
πHere are some more videos from my channel to help you with your landscape:
https://youtu.be/xLqriAj-YII?si=V2C8CV-n_f40JI_J
https://youtu.be/DzseHs4xeZQ?si=y7CQJ3p-YtaFRWDz
https://youtu.be/jut5cyW18pU?si=UVzQFC6o28__rOiR
Looking for more landscape ideas? Check out these books;
https://amzn.to/3O6hclN
https://amzn.to/3ixeAhM
https://amzn.to/3DepGjk
https://amzn.to/3lwOmxK
Video by Doug Kalal, Great Gardens Landscape Design
Thursday, August 28, 2025
Video - How We Built a Terraced Garden on a Steep Hill
This week's episode showcases how to terrace a hillside, focusing on the different methods of landscape design. The video highlights the transformation of the slope into a beautiful garden, including backyard landscaping ideas. Learn about retaining wall construction and materials used.
Thank you to Unique Landscaping for their assistance in making this video.
Do you have a slope in your yard that you want to turn into a terraced landscape? Here's a quick overview video on the basics of how to do it. This video was shot in San Diego, California.
Here are some books to give you more ideas on patios and walls.
https://amzn.to/3ixeAhM
https://amzn.to/3DepGjk
https://amzn.to/3lwOmxK
Video by Doug Kalal, Great Gardens Landscape Design
For more information about my San Diego based landscape design services, please contact me at Kalal5@sbcglobal.net
Monday, August 25, 2025
Video - Easy Steps to a Perfect Semplice Retaining Wall!
Doug explains what a simple keystone wall is, and how it differs from a country manor style, for garden design. He shows various stages of construction, providing a how to guide to building keystone retaining walls. The video covers landscape design and finishing touches. Keystone walls are a superb method of landscape wall construction. These interlocking blocks can be used to build walls from 1 foot to 6 feet. Semplice Keystone block walls can be used when you need a wall up to 3 feet high.
Thank you to Unique Landscaping for the great work on this landscape project.
Here is more info on the wall product
https://www.rcpblock.com/
Looking for more patio ideas? Check out these books;
https://amzn.to/3ixeAhM
https://amzn.to/3DepGjk
https://amzn.to/3lwOmxK
Video by Doug Kalal, Great Gardens Landscape Design
For more information about my San Diego based landscape design services, please contact me at Kalal5@sbcglobal.net
Tuesday, August 5, 2025
Video - See 6 Backyard Makeovers in Just 3 Minutes!
Doug showcases a rapid tour of landscape construction sites, highlighting a pool build in progress. He also shares insights on shade structures, backyard renovation, and flagstone patio design. This fast-paced video offers a glimpse into hardscaping and various stages of landscape design. The construction tour continues as I check on 6 projects I designed. This video was shot in San Diego, California.
Looking for more patio ideas? Check out these books;
https://amzn.to/3ixeAhM
https://amzn.to/3DepGjk
https://amzn.to/3lwOmxK
Video by Doug Kalal, Great Gardens Landscape Design
For more information about my San Diego based landscape design services, please contact me at Kalal5@sbcglobal.net
Thursday, July 3, 2025
Video - Watch These Landscapes Get Awesome Upgrades!
Doug shares a quick update on multiple landscape construction sites, including a synthetic shade structure. He's also overseeing an outdoor kitchen build and progress on a pool installation. Check out the video for some backyard design inspiration!
Here are the links to the shade structure kit;
https://www.try-tech.com/
https://amzn.to/441aq72
Looking for more patio ideas? Check out these books;
https://amzn.to/3ixeAhM
https://amzn.to/40x3Jds
https://amzn.to/3DepGjk
https://amzn.to/3lwOmxK
Video by Doug Kalal, Great Gardens Landscape Design
Thursday, June 26, 2025
Video - What happens in a week of Landscape Construction Demolition, Pools, Pa...
This week, Doug is on location to oversee the construction of a stunning outdoor living space featuring stamped concrete. He's also checking on the pool construction and gunite application, ensuring every detail aligns with the client's vision. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting project!
Looking for more patio ideas? Check out these books;
https://amzn.to/3ixeAhM
https://amzn.to/3DepGjk
https://amzn.to/3lwOmxK
Video by Doug Kalal, Great Gardens Landscape Design
Friday, April 25, 2025
Small Backyard Remodel #1 Paver Patio, Fireplace and BBQ
Do you have a small backyard that needs a remodel? This series will show you a dozen different ideas of what to do with a small backyard. This first one features a new backyard entertaining area with pavers, fireplace and a BBQ.
Looking for more patio ideas? Check out these books;
https://amzn.to/3ixeAhM
https://amzn.to/3DepGjk
Video by Doug Kalal, Great Gardens Landscape Design
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