The new patio cover in this West Ashley backyard actually started beyond the edge of the existing pool deck. To create enough room for a substantial covered outdoor area, Express Sunrooms of Charleston first extended the pool patio. The additional hardscape gave the new structure its own footprint beside the pool rather than trying to squeeze the cover into the space that was already there. From there, our team built the patio cover over the newly expanded area, turning what had been part of the yard into a covered extension of the pool patio.

Extending the Patio Before Building Up

The progress photos show just how much went into preparing the backyard before the finished patio cover took shape.The new section of patio was laid out alongside the existing pool area, with the travertine extension designed to continue the usable surface beyond its original footprint. Once that additional space was established, construction could move upward with the columns, framing, gable roof, siding, and finishing details. Taking this approach allowed the patio cover to be sized for the space the homeowners wanted instead of being limited by the dimensions of the original pool deck.

A Dedicated Covered Area Beside the Pool

The finished patio now has two distinct areas that work together. The pool remains surrounded by open patio space, while the extension provides a large covered cabana area for outdoor furniture, dining, entertaining, or simply getting out of the Charleston sun. Wide openings between the columns keep the covered area connected to the pool rather than making it feel like a separate room. One side is enclosed to give the space additional definition, while the pool-facing sides remain open.

Finishing the Patio Cover to Match the Home

With a project this visible from both the pool and the house, the finishing details mattered. White columns, trim, and a finished ceiling tie into the home’s existing exterior details. The gable siding complements the darker siding of the house, while the black ceiling fan provides airflow and a subtle contrast overhead. The result doesn’t just add a roof to the backyard. By extending the patio first, the project created an entirely new section of usable outdoor living space where there wasn’t enough room for one before.

Planning More Space for Your West Ashley Backyard?

Sometimes adding a patio cover means working with the patio you already have. Other times, the better solution is to create more room first. Express Sunrooms of Charleston can help plan the patio space and the cover together, giving you a finished outdoor area designed around how you want to use your backyard.