Clark Outdoor Designs

The majority of Dallas homes have patios because the rocky, uneven ground of bare clay soil in North Texas isn’t great for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors comfortably. And neither are the invasions of fire ants that spring up in exposed dirt. Both challenges make it difficult to enjoy being out in your yard at different times of the year. That’s why patios, and hardscaping in general, is so popular in Texas -you’ve got to upgrade your yard from bare dirt and grass to be able to make regular use of it. But, with the pockets of harsh weather that Dallas endures annually, homeowners have to be consistent with patio maintenance to keep their outdoor spaces looking great and in top condition over the years. The thing is, though, most homeowners haven’t the slightest idea how to care for masonry installations like patios, walkways, and other hardscaping elements. Most people don’t have any masonry experience themselves, and despite most Dallasites living in brick and stone houses, have n...

Outdoor living spaces are quickly becoming a must-have, as homeowners are now spending 25% of their home improvement budgets on outdoor upgrades. From outdoor kitchens to multi-tiered patios and custom organic inground pool designs; there are many options when it comes to backyard renovations or front yard glow-ups. Different Dallas neighborhoods lean towards different styles, when it comes to outdoor design, that reflect their unique character. In Oak Cliff, for example, recycled concrete pathways are popular and blend seamlessly with mid-century modern homes. Over in Southlake, homeowners prefer resort-style cabanas with slip-resistant porcelain tile — perfect for sunny poolside relaxation. Wherever you live in DFW, there’s an upgrade that can turn your outdoor space into something both functional and inviting. Landscape With Native Plants Landscaping with native Texas plants is smart because it works with Dallas’ climate instead of against it -you’ll appreciate this when you’re su...

Considering travertine for your Dallas pool deck? Here’s what you need to know… If you’re thinking about travertine for your Dallas pool deck , you’re on the right track. After managing lots of pool projects across North Dallas, we’ve seen firsthand how travertine stands up to our harsh climate like scorching August heatwaves, sudden January freezes, and everything in between. A pool deck isn’t just a border around the water. It’s where summer memories are made — kids learning to swim, weekend barbecues with friends, and quiet evenings under the stars. That’s why picking the right material isn’t just practical — it’s personal. This guide cuts through the hype. You’ll get straight talk about costs, durability, and maintenance, plus why Dallas’s tricky clay soil makes installation a make-or-break factor. I’ll share design tips that actually work with Texas homes and help you avoid costly mistakes I’ve fixed for too many homeowners. Let’s start with what matters most when the Texas sun is...

Looking to create a stone walkway that actually works for your Dallas home ? After 8 years of installing paths from Little Elm to Kessler Park, we’ve learned what separates a showstopper from a project you’ll regret. Native Texas and regional stone varieties aren’t just beautiful — they’re practical. Clients often tell us their stone paths become the heart of their outdoor spaces. Not just because they look good, but because they make their yards work better. The right path guides you naturally from one area to the next, like it’s always belonged there. That’s the magic of natural stone. You’ve got endless creative options, whether you want bold drama or understated charm. The trick is working with the stone’s personality instead of forcing it into something it’s not. Today, we’re sharing hard-won lessons from dozens of installations. You’ll learn which stones give real value, which “deals” to skip, and how to avoid the pitfalls that trip up many Dallas homeowners. (Read the original...