Outdoor living is a way of life in Southwest Florida, but many lanais, patios, and pool areas don’t fully reflect how homeowners want to relax or entertain. At Progressive Design Build, we specialize in transforming underused outdoor spaces into beautiful, functional extensions of your home. Take a look at these before-and-after projects that highlight how thoughtful design, skilled craftsmanship, and close collaboration can completely reimagine your outdoor living areas, turning them into inspired retreats built for Florida living.
Outdoor Kitchen & Living Space Remodel in Alva, FL
BEFORE
BEFORE
This home’s outdoor area was basic, with no functional layout and minimal shade options. The homeowners desired to have an outdoor living space with a pool and spa, an outdoor living room, a fireplace, kitchen and a covered patio so they could enjoy their riverside views while entertaining or for everyday use.
AFTER
Following their outdoor living space remodel, the homeowners now enjoy a spacious covered porch that complements their home’s Old Florida style architecture. Other outdoor improvements include a complete outdoor kitchen, covered dining area, cushioned lounge chairs, and a cypress ceiling that adds a Jamaican influence to the design detail.
“This project was all about creating a retreat that felt both personal and peaceful—the cypress ceiling became a beautiful way to honor the homeowners’ memories of their Jamaican honeymoon,” says Nikki Bruty, NCIDQ Certified Designer with Progressive Design Build.
Outdoor Kitchen & Living Space Remodel in Bonita Bay, FL
BEFORE
BEFORE
(case study) – NARI CotY 2020 Regional Winner
These homeowners weren’t very happy with their dated lanai, with its limited shade and minimal cooking space. They desired a space where they could entertain or enjoy the outdoors during any time of day or evening.
AFTER
We designed a complete outdoor living expansion featuring a cypress wood pergola with a custom retractable sunshade and an upgraded outdoor kitchen. The space was transformed from a partially covered patio into a fully functional outdoor kitchen, complete with a full bank of cabinetry to support their cooking and entertaining lifestyle.
“This award-winning transformation wasn’t just structural,” says David Wherry, President of Progressive Design Build. “It changed how the homeowners gather with their family and friends.”
Outdoor Living Space Remodel, with Multiple Zoned Areas, in Bonita Bay, FL
BEFORE
BEFORE
This home included a cramped lanai with no clear zones for dining, cooking or lounging. The homeowners desired an outdoor kitchen, bar area, and a courtyard/pool surround, along with a new hot tub that would integrate seamlessly with the existing pool.
AFTER
We designed a beautifully-zoned outdoor space with updated finishes, modern lighting and a seamless indoor-outdoor flow. But this project also came with challenges. We discovered that the entire roof would need to be replaced due to leaks.
After the remodel, the outdoor living area features a beautiful outdoor kitchen and grill, along with an outdoor bar and flat-screen TV. New planters filled with lush, tropical foliage became part of the landscape design and can also be enjoyed from the new hot tub. In the pool area, we added a sheer descent rain waterfall to create a unique, tranquil sound.
“Redefining how a family uses their outdoor space is one of the most rewarding parts of our work,” Nikki says.
Outdoor Kitchen & Pool Patio Remodel in Bonita Springs, FL
BEFORE
BEFORE
This aging pool area was in disrepair, and an outdated kitchen had limited functionality. The homeowners wanted an outdoor space they could truly be proud of.
AFTER
This project was part of a complete two-story guest house remodel and includes a fully renovated pool deck, an expanded kitchen, and a relocated BBQ station. Refreshed finishes, paired with new outdoor lighting and landscaping, breathe new life into the space. Together, these updates create an ideal ambiance for entertaining or relaxing.
“We wanted to create a space where every area—from the pool to the kitchen—felt intentional and inviting,” David says.
A Fort Myers, FL Backyard Designed for Entertaining and Golf
BEFORE
BEFORE
These homeowners felt their backyard lacked shade, structure, and outdoor amenities, and they wanted to upgrade it to improve outdoor comfort and enjoyment.
AFTER
We created a modern lanai featuring a full kitchen, lounge area, stunning architectural details, and even a putting green for this avid golfer. In the new backyard design, we seamlessly integrated the lanai living space with the golf green, creating a cohesive outdoor environment for year-round enjoyment.
“Our goal was to create a space that feels like an extension of the home’s interior style,” says Nikki.
Lanai Renovation with Unique Ceiling Design & Outdoor Kitchen Renovation in Bonita Springs, FL
BEFORE
BEFORE
This home had a traditional lanai, with tired finishes and minimal functional zones. As part of a full interior and exterior remodel, the homeowners included their outdoor kitchen and lanai renovation.
AFTER
We started this remodel by removing the stucco ceiling and replacing it with a gorgeous tongue-and-groove Roman Rock ceiling. Then, to create a warm, inviting entertainment space, we designed an electric fireplace into an outdoor living room and kitchen area. The pool also received an upgrade with new pavers and waterline tile. All outdoor improvements were designed to complement the home’s new contemporary interior.
The homeowners now enjoy a refreshed pool area, an expanded kitchen, upgraded lighting, and a cohesive resort-like design.
“This project was all about blurring the boundaries—giving the homeowners a space where moving from indoors to outdoors feels effortless and natural,” David says.
Southwest Florida Outdoor Remodeling with Progressive Design Build
These before-and-after remodels show that with the right design-build partner, your outdoor living space can become one of the most loved parts of your home. Whether you imagine a full outdoor kitchen, a modern pool deck, or a complete outdoor living expansion, Progressive Design Build can help bring your vision to life—beautifully, thoughtfully, and built to last.
Schedule your consultation and let’s talk about creating beautiful outdoor living spaces for your Southwest Florida home. Contact us today.
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