Outdoor Fireplaces, Patios, Kitchens & Walkways
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A Dream Backyard from Start to Finish

7/26/2016

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Every once in a while, The Backyard has the opportunity to work on an outdoor living space that lets all of our installation skills shine. One recent project presented us with an interesting combination of design elements, challenging site work, and large scale proportions for the work to be done.
  • 25 ft. X 30 ft. Flagstone Patio
  • Masonry Fireplace with Separate Wood Storage
  • Seating Walls with Accent Lighting
  • Brick Cabinet with Round Granite Bar Top
  • Outdoor Kitchen with Blaze accessories, Grill, and Refrigerator

​With any installation, there is no right or wrong plan. Each design is custom made to fit the customer’s preferences and planned use of the space, while creating a good flow in proportion to the space available. The customers on this project had a detailed design in mind - complete with pictures. Examples of similar projects help owner/designer, Bryan Waits, visualize the concept to give each customer their perfect finished product. You can check out some of our other projects at the sites below:
  • The Backyard on Houzz
  • The Backyard on Pinterest
  • The Backyard’s Website


​All of our installations start with site work – good preparation equals a firm foundation for any project. For this project, we had to do the following:
  • The footprint of the project was drawn on the ground using marking paint
  • We worked with a heavy machine operator to excavate the yard to create the space for the patio and fireplace
  • Landscape help allowed us to re-route irrigation lines from the existing system
  • As part of construction, drainage was installed to help with the flow of water on the new surface
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Masonry Fireplace

​The first design element installed was the Fireplace. The Installation Crew usually begins with this feature, so there is no risk of damage to a new floor and it helps with the clean-up later. This Fireplace with separate wood storage took four days to complete.
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Flagstone Patio

The Backyard Installation Crew laid the large Flagstone patio after finishing the fireplace. This patio was about 25 feet by 30 feet, or about 750 square feet of space. This required The Backyard to bring in 9 tons of Flagstone – about 5 pallets worth!
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Outdoor Kitchen

The outdoor kitchen was built with a brick cabinet for the outdoor kitchen with granite top. This project’s design included a brick cabinet with rounded bar top. After the cabinet was finished, a mortar wash was applied, changing the bricks from red to brown. 


With planning, hard work and the help of the Installation Crew and several outside contractors, The Backyard was able to complete another awesome project. All of these elements combined to create a unique space, perfect for entertaining family and friends with ease and in style. We hope the customers enjoy their outdoor living space for years to come! 

If you would like more information on creating YOUR perfect outdoor living space, call The Backyard at 334-524-3550, or contact us through the website for a FREE estimate.
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Have Rocks, Will Travel

2/25/2016

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While each project that we do is unique, The Backyard recently completed a fireplace that was out of the ordinary – by about 200 miles.
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​Customers Johnny McDonald and his wife, Barbara, contacted The Backyard to help them create an appealing outdoor living space at their Mirimar Beach, FL, property. They are building an event ready condo complex, complete with an amazing outdoor living space for their guests to enjoy.
Agreeing to do this job required a lot of advanced planning, including shipping over 23 tons of rock and materials from our Auburn location. Some of the items needed for this large scale project:
  • A 48-inch, pre-engineered fire box (your normal fireplace is only about 30 inches)
  • 20 tons of Tennessee Fieldstone
  • 200 Bags of Mortar
  • 36 Scaffold Frames
  • Lift with 40 Foot Extension

47,000 lbs headed to Florida
Chimney by The Backyard
Each Backyard project is custom, based on each customer's budget and style. Jim and Barbara had a good idea of what they wanted: they contributed ideas and some of their own materials at the beginning of the project that were incorporated into the final design of the two-story chimney and fireplace.
  • An old mill stone was used to create interest on the rear of the chimney
  • Rocks from the family farm were used in the body of the fireplace and as focal point for the keystone over the firebox         

Hearth by The Backyard
The Backyard’s has a guiding principle: do one job at a time, and do it well. This belief was a key factor in our ability to complete the installation of this fireplace in only eight days. ​Our finished project is 36 feet tall, due to building safety codes: the chimney must be 4 feet higher than the roof and be more than 10 feet away from it. The hearth has a whopping 48-inch fire box, substantially larger than the average fireplace.

Even though our masonry contribution to the project is done, it will be exciting to continue to watch this design come together. The customers are adding a pool, pavilion and outdoor kitchen to their condo - check back for updates on the finished outdoor living space!  

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3 Easy Steps to Your Dream Outdoor Living Space

1/11/2016

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Patio with steps
Flagstone patio by The Backyard
Planning an outdoor project can seem overwhelming: measuring square footage, coming up with a design that works with your space, choosing materials, finding furnishings and so many other little details. While it seems complicated, this process doesn’t have to be. The Backyard works hard to help each customer create a unique project based on their location and style. We do the details and heavy lifting so you can enjoy your outdoor living space.

Keep reading to see how easy it is to get the backyard of your dreams!

Step One: Contact The Backyard
  • Give us a call at 334-524-3550 or contact us through the website.
  • You may not know exactly what you want yet, but we can meet and help come up with a design and estimate for your project. Owner/designer Bryan Waits will schedule a time to come to your location and take a look at the space and hear your ideas.
Flagstone patio, steps and stepping stones
Flagstone patio, stepping stones and steps by The Backyard
Step Two: Tell us what you want to build

You don’t’ need to know exactly what that is at this point – we can start with a rough idea. Bryan has more than 20-years-experience in the masonry business and can build to an existing plan or customize a design for you. And because each project is built from the ground up, you can customize the design to fit your style and budget.  
 
We have a wide variety of rock, stone and bricks on hand at our Auburn and Montgomery locations and can special order materials, if needed. So start tearing out magazine pages and creating new Pinterest boards: you can check out some of our work there too!  
Step Three: Say yes!

Once you give us the go-ahead, your idea will go from dream to reality. Your project goes on the schedule and we’ll be in touch to make sure all the details are covered before we arrive to build. The Backyard crew works with one customer at a time - once we start your project, the work will go fast as we give your installation our undivided attention. 

When installation is complete, you will be able to enjoy your new space immediately: the crew’s last task is to remove any construction debris and wipe down the stone.​ The Backyard can also help you find the right accessories to complete the look of your outdoor space. Check out our the tabs above for more information on gas grills, Big Green Eggs, outdoor lighting and a wide variety of outdoor accessories and furnishings.
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Brick Fireplace w/flagstone patio
Brick fireplace with flagstone patio by The Backyard
Whether you want to create a small outdoor space or are looking to build an over-the-top outdoor kitchen for entertaining, it all starts with three easy steps. The Backyard is here to help you have exactly what you’re looking for.    
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The Backyard Completes Patio Bar Area at LiveOaks in Auburn, Alabama (photos)

4/3/2015

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Bryan Waits and the entire crew at The Backyard and Bryan Waits Masonry are excited to have completed the outdoor patio, dining and fireplace areas for Auburn's newest restaurant, Live Oaks. Live Oaks is located at the corner of North College and Glenn Avenue in Auburn. Many residents have watched with anticipation as the abandoned gas station on this corner became vibrant new addition to Auburn's growing restaurant and bar scene.
Live Oaks in Auburn, Alabama
Bryan and his team were excited to have been involved in transforming the outside areas of LiveOaks into an inviting patio bar. The patio features numerous custom elements that The Backyard has become known for in and around Auburn, Opelika, Montgomery and Lake Martin. The focal point of the patio bar is, of course, a large outdoor fireplace. The fireplace creates a unique ambiance for the business that is unlike any other establishment in the area. The bar area is also an exceptional and functional design for friends to gather for dinner, drinks or to catch their favorite sporting events on TV.
Live Oaks fireplace in Auburn, AL (334) 524-3550
LIVEOAKS Auburn Alabama
Live Oaks Restaurant Auburn AL
LiveOaks bar in Auburn, Alabama
LiveOaks downtown Auburn, AL
The exterior of the patio is well-integrated with the fencing and entryways, creating a very pleasing view from the street. The curb appeal of the LiveOaks patio bar is one of the main factors in driving patrons to the new business in a bustling downtown area.
Live Oaks Auburn football gameday
LiveOaks at Auburn University
Sports bars in Auburn with outdoor fireplace
Are you refurbishing or planning to open a local restaurant, bar or other business in Auburn, Opelika or Montgomery? Contact Bryan Waits for a complimentary consultation on creating an outdoor area that drives business and keeps customers coming back. Call any time: (334) 524-3550.
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A New Outdoor Living Space from Concept to Complete in Seven Days!

1/27/2015

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When you finally make the decision to invest in an outdoor living space at your home, business, lake house or hunting land the last thing you want to do is WAIT! At The Backyard of Auburn and Montgomery we completely understand. That's why Bryan Waits and his team of professionals work quickly to bring your backyard dreams to reality.

We recently worked with a homeowner who had a plan in mind. Bryan came to their home, made recommendations and immediately began to draw up the plans based on their conversations. Everything was taken into consideration including topography, drainage and current utility lines. Below are the original drawings from that meeting.
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As you can see, there is nothing overly fancy - just an honest desire to meet the wants and needs of the homeowner. Once an estimate was provided the work began to create the vision that the homeowners had dreamed of.
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Outdoor fireplace contractor Auburn, AL Montgomery and Lake Martin
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And so, within seven short days from creating the design, Bryan Waits and The Backyard team have completed the outdoor patio, fireplace, wall, steps and bridge to make this homeowner's dream of a beautiful outdoor living space come true. 
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Are you interested in having your own backyard oasis for entertaining and enjoying time with family and friends? Contact Bryan Waits for a free estimate at you home or property. (334) 524-3550.
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The 12 Days of Christmas? What Do People REALLY Want?

12/9/2014

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Beginning today, Bryan Waits and The Backyard are going to feature 12 great gift ideas over the next 12 days - giving you enough time to bring REAL joy to your gift recipients this holiday season. Now, what do we mean by REAL joy?? The best gifts are the ones that invoke a lifetime of memories for the recipient, the gift-giver and all of their friends, family and acquaintances. The Backyard of Auburn and Montgomery create true outdoor living spaces where life happens and memories are made. Long after the iPhone screen is cracked or dropped in the toilet, the fancy purse or fashion item has become unfashionable and the wine-of-the-year has been consumed, your outdoor living area is still there and still a place to gather friends and family.
Your true love deserves and outdoor living space from The Backyard in Auburn, AL (334) 524-3550
So, check back here each day over the next 12 days as we add a new "perfect gift idea" for the loved ones in your life. And today we begin with...

On the 1st day of Christmas my true love said to me...
"I want a large size Big Green Egg!"

The Backyard of Auburn is your premiere source for the world's favorite ceramic egg. Smoke, grill, bake, steam.. the Big Green Egg does it all. We have a large selection of Eggs IN STOCK (no pre-order required). You will probably choose our most popular model, the large Big Green Egg.
Get your large Big Green Egg at the Backyard of Auburn before Christmas (334) 524-3550
Buy your Large Big Green Egg before December 19th and we'll deliver it to your home, office or secret hiding place FREE of charge. PLUS - get $50 in FREE Eggcessories as our "thank you" for choosing The backyard. Call now for best selection: (334) 524-3550.

On the 2nd day of Christmas my true love said to me...
"Hey, don't forget the Eggcessories!"

Okay, so now that you have the Large Big Green Egg under the tree, you need some Eggcessories to go with it. If you already have a Big Green Egg at your home or lake house, then fill your true love's stocking with a plethora of accessories made specifically for Big Green Egg enthusiasts. The Backyard in Auburn has a large selection of charcoal, wood chips for smoking, grilling utensils, covers, lighters, charcoal starters, racks made especially for Eggs, seasonings, aprons, pizza stones.... schwew! 
Eggcessories for the Big Green Eggg are available at The Backyard in Auburn, AL
Big Green Egg accessories available at The Backyard of Auburn, AL
Bottom line: The Backyard is THE place for Eggcessories - the perfect gift for your Egg enthusiast. Stop by our store on Highway 14 in Auburn (headed towards Loachapoka). 

On the 3rd day of Christmas my true love said to me...
"We need a place to entertain in the back."

Entertaining family and friends in style starts with a great patio. Your new patio is the foundation for a complete outdoor living space. Add some furniture for lounging or dining and you have a new "room" where memories will be made for a lifetime.
The Backyard offers patio design and construction in Auburn, AL, Opelika and Lake Martin
The Backyard of Auburn creates and installs unique patios in Auburn, Opelika, Lake Martin and the Montgomery area. The process can be very fast, sometimes taking only a few days from design to completion. How surprised would your true love be to have a gift letter under the tree for a new patio? Contact Bryan Waits at (334) 524-3550 to make it a reality. 

On the 4th day of Christmas my true love said to me...
"Did you see the gorgeous pottery at The Backyard?"

If you've driven by The Backyard on Highway 14 in Auburn then you probably noticed the awesome selection of pottery for your home and outdoor living space. We have a great selection of unique pottery in many different colors and styles. Our pottery collection is the perfect compliment to your outdoor patio, fireplace or deck. Add an interesting flower, plant or tree and you have an excellent Christmas gift that your true love will LOVE!
See the unique selection of pottery at The Backyard in Auburn AL
Shop early for best selection. Some of these unique pieces will not last. Call (334) 524-3550.

On the 5th day of Christmas my true love said to me...
"That Mini Big Green Egg is sooooo cute!"

It's true. The Mini Big Green Egg is not only cute, it's also the perfect way to take smoking and grilling perfection with you anywhere you go. Great for picnics, tailgating, camping and boating trips. It's also just the right size for apartment or condo balconies. You can read more about the different Egg sizes on the official site, but choose The Backyard in Auburn for free delivery and free Eggcessories.
Mini Big Green Egg is available at the Backyard of Auburn (334) 524-3550

On the 6th day of Christmas my true love said to me...
"We need a walkway between the deck and the guest house."

A professionally designed and installed walkway can make a big difference in your backyard plans. Or consider the beauty of a new walkway between the street and your home's entrance. A beautiful brick or stone walk will create that elegant entrance that you've always dreamed of.
Walkways from the Backyard of Auburn (334) 524-3550
Give the gift of an updated and upgraded walkway to your true love this Christmas. Call Bryan Waits for a free estimate at your home, business or lake house to see how easy it is.

On the 7th day of Christmas my true love said to me...
"Wouldn't a backyard fire pit be perfect for this weather?"

Whether you're gathering the family around the fire during the holidays or entertaining a large crowd, a well-constructed fire pit can bring a focal point to your backyard, pool area, lake home or hunting land. Bryan Waits and the Backyard of Auburn can design and build the perfect fire pit for any area. Our team takes special consideration of the current landscaping, topography and (especially important) current infrastructure like HVAC connections, electrical and drainage. 
Fire pits in Auburn AL from The Backyard
Fire pit for your lake house from the Backyard of Auburn
Contact Bryan Waits at (334) 524-3550 for a free consultation and estimate at your home or property. What a great gift idea to go under the tree!

On the 8th day of Christmas my true love said to me...
"I want it ALL! Get me the Extra Extra Large Big Green Egg!"

Get a whole lot more of what you love about the Big Green Egg by treating your true love (and your family, heck, an ARMY) to the biggest Egg available on the consumer market. This Egg features a 672 inch cooking area. It can handle 20 racks of ribs, 35-40 hamburgers, 14-16 whole chickens, 18-20 steaks, even a whole pig!
Get the biggest Egge available from the Backyard in Auburn, AL
Image above is MUCH larger in real life!
Due to its size and limited availability, this Egg may take a little more time to get under the tree. Plan ahead and call The Backyard TODAY for additional information. (334) 524-3550.

On the 9th day of Christmas my true love said to me...
"We need a cart or table for our Big Green Egg"

Our store on Highway 14 in Auburn (headed towards Loachapoka) has just received a shipment of custom tables and carts for the Big Green Egg. Your new cart will make moving your Egg around the patio, deck or porch as easy as enjoying a mouthwatering meal fresh off the grill. Choose from several styles and colors, but shop early for the best selection. Purchase a new Egg and cart before December 22nd and we'll deliver to your home or hiding place for FREE! Plus, get $50 in FREE Eggcessories!
Big Green Egg carts and tables just in at The Backyard Auburn, AL

On the 10th day of Christmas my true love said to me...
"An outdoor kitchen sure would make this family gathering more, ummm, fun"

We know how the holidays can be. Everyone gathers in the kitchen, but everyone needs their "space" too. Well, nothing will solve that problem better than a new outdoor kitchen from The Backyard of Auburn. Bryan Waits and his team can design the perfect compliment to your outdoor living area that features a built in grilling area, space for your charcoal grill or smoker, refrigeration, warming oven, food prep areas, sink, storage and MORE! 
Outdoor kitchen froom the Backyard of Auburn
Outdoor kitchens enhance your backyard experience
The Backyard features premium built-grills and accessories from top brands like Blaze Grills, Lynx and Sedona.
Create a great escape for the cook in your life! Call Bryan Waits at (334) 524-3550 for a free estimate at your home or lake house.

On the 11th day of Christmas my true love said to me...
"A fireplace in the backyard would really be nice."

Imagine gathering friends and family around your toasty outdoor fireplace during holiday gatherings. A fireplace is a perfect setting for reminiscing about old times, catching up and making big plans for the future. Bryan Waits and The Backyard of Auburn are outdoor fireplace experts. Bryan's team can can take your dream through design and construction to completion sometimes within seven short days.
Give the gift of an outdoor fireplace to your loved ones. Gift certificates available.
Bryan can come to your home, lake house or property to give you a complimentary estimate on your new fireplace. No time before Christmas? No problem. The Backyard can supply a gift certificate for the new fireplace to put under the tree and handle all the details when you're ready. That will give you time to dream up exactly what you want. Call for details: (334) 524-3550.

On the 12th day of Christmas my true love said to me...
"Let's just take the plunge and create a complete outdoor living area!"

So on the final day of of our "12 Days of Christmas" mega post we want to encourage you to take the plunge and give yourself the beauty, elegance and functionality of a complete backyard renovation. We'll take a close look at the space you have and create the most enjoyable space you could ever imagine with a patio, fireplace, outdoor kitchen, walkways and more. You new outdoor living space will be a place where memories are made whether it's a special event, family gathering or just everyday life. Your home will be more enjoyable than ever before.
If you're ready, we're ready! Call East Alabama's #1 outdoor living company, The Backyard of Auburn.
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!
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Unique Outdoor Design for Your Business? We Can Do It!

10/30/2014

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If you travel at all on North College Street in Auburn you have certainly wondered about the new business going up on the corner of Glenn Ave and N. College. We're excited to be constructing the outdoor patio area for LIVEOAKS Restaurant & Patio Bar. The establishment will feature great food including a gourmet burger selection not seen in Auburn before. As you can see from recent construction photos below, the focus of the venue will be the outdoor patio area. The patio offers a great bar area with craft beers. There will be lots of TVs for sports watching and our favorite element - a huge fireplace for folks to gather around on chilly fall evenings.

Take a look at our recent work:
So, if your business is in need of an outdoor space that draws oooohs and ahhhhhs from customers and clients call Bryan Waits and The Backyard of Auburn at (334) 524-3550.
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Game Day Home Has New HUGE Outdoor Living Space for Entertaining up to 150 Guests (Full Photo Gallery Included)

9/4/2014

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Football season is here and thousands of fans will flock to the Loveliest Village on the Plains for home football weekends.  One excited fan will be entertaining all of his guests in a brand new outdoor living space designed and constructed by The Backyard of Auburn.

This incredible outdoor area was created to match the architecture and theme of the original home. It features Tennessee Crab Orchard Flagstone and painted brick. The wall around the patio was constructed to offer bench seating all the way around. The outdoor fireplace features an AUsome inlay that you can see below.

Our design team took extra steps on the infrastructure to prepare for electrical and drainage needs. The crew also re-located the heating and air-conditioning for the home to make it all work. This type of comprehensive planning is a large reason so many homeowners trust Bryan Waits and The Backyard of Auburn with their outdoor living needs. 

This project will be finished off with a top-of-the-line outdoor kitchen that can feed a large crowd of hungry Tiger fans. We'll update this news section with additional photos and information soon.

If you'd like to upgrade your home or property in Auburn, Opelika, Montgomery or Lake Martin by adding an outdoor living area, contact Bryan Waits at (334) 524-3550 or use or handy contact page to get in touch.
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All Pottery 40% Off Through Saturday, April 26th

4/25/2014

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Bryan Waits, Owner of The Backyard, has announced that all in-stock pottery at the showroom on Highway 14 in Auburn will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis at 40%. Bryan has a large selection of unique pottery to enhance your outdoor living spaces and other parts of your home.  Below are just a few examples of the pottery being offered in this sale.
Supplies are limited and special orders are not included in this exceptional sale. Discounts are valid through close of business this Saturday, April 26, 2014 at our showroom on Highway 14 in Auburn.  Call (334) 524-3550 for more information or directions.

While you're in, ask about outdoor living design and construction.  We would love to help you build the backyard you've been dreaming of.
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Bryan Waits and The Backyard: A Timeline

12/13/2013

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With over 19 years in the masonry and outdoor living construction and design business, Bryan Waits has developed a style and flair that has customers raving all over East and Central Alabama. Bryan's experience and skill have helped homeowners in Auburn, Opelika, Lake Martin and East Montgomery realize their dreams of the perfect outdoor living area - bringing value and comfort to their property.

Bryan's skill and talent comes from years of hard work and learning the trade, and today we'd like to give you a basic timeline of his experience through the years.

When you're considering a contractor for your outdoor fireplace, kitchen, patio, walkway or entryway, consider Bryan's resume and experience:

1994- Began working as a Laborer/Apprentice at Charles Cleveland Masonry in Snead, AL

2000-Moved to Auburn, studied Building Science and Business Management and Began working independently on small masonry projects around Auburn

2001- Took an internship with Xcel Masonry in Trussville, AL

2004- Left school to start Bryan Waits Masonry, LLC.

2011- Opened The Backyard of Auburn, LLC.

2012-Opened the second Backyard location in East Montgomery, AL

When making choices about the designer/contractor for your outdoor living area, choose the experience of Bryan Waits and The Backyard. For a free consultation on your dream project call Bryan at (334) 524-3550.

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    The Backyard

    The Backyard in Auburn and Montgomery offers professional design and construction of outdoor fireplaces, kitchens, patios and walkways. Check back here for news on current projects and ideas for your own outdoor living space.

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The Backyard
2962 Highway 14 West
Auburn, AL 36832
(334) 524-3550

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