If you are planning a custom patio, outdoor fireplace, outdoor firepit, outdoor kitchen, masonry project, walkway, steps, or a complete outdoor living space in Atlanta, one of your first questions is probably: How much is this going to cost?
At Arnold Masonry and Landscape, we have been creating custom masonry, hardscape, and outdoor living spaces throughout Atlanta and North Atlanta since 1985.
Because every property and project is different, we do not believe a generic online calculator can accurately tell you what your project will cost. The size of the project, existing conditions, access, demolition, material selections, masonry complexity, elevations, custom features, and overall design can all influence the final investment.
Our projects currently have a $15,000 minimum investment. We charge a $100 on-site consultation fee, which is applied toward your project if you choose to move forward with us.
The best way to begin is to tell us about your project through our Request a Quote form.
Hardscape Pricing at a Glance in Atlanta
Custom hardscape construction can range from a relatively focused project to a complete backyard transformation incorporating several major features.
Our projects currently begin at a $15,000 minimum investment, while our Houzz profile lists a typical project range of approximately $15,000 to $250,000.
That is intentionally a broad range.
A custom walkway or masonry entrance is fundamentally different from a complete outdoor living environment incorporating a large stone patio, outdoor kitchen, outdoor fireplace, custom steps, built-in seating, and extensive masonry.
Rather than publishing generic per-square-foot prices that may not reflect the actual project, we evaluate the entire scope.
What Can Affect Your Hardscape Investment?
| Project Consideration | How It Can Affect the Scope |
| Project size | Larger spaces generally require more materials and labor |
| Existing conditions | Removing existing construction can add demolition and disposal work |
| Site access | Restricted access can make moving materials and equipment more difficult |
| Material selection | Natural stone, brick, countertops, and specialty materials vary in cost |
| Masonry complexity | Detailed patterns, cuts, curves, and custom masonry require additional craftsmanship |
| Elevation changes | Steps and transitions can increase design and construction complexity |
| Outdoor kitchen design | Size, masonry, countertops, appliance openings, and custom details affect scope |
| Outdoor fireplace design | Size, masonry materials, architectural details, and placement affect construction |
| Outdoor firepit design | Size, shape, material, surrounding seating, and masonry details affect scope |
| Built-in seating | Custom masonry seating adds materials and construction |
| Number of features | Combining several outdoor elements creates a larger overall project |
| Site preparation | Existing site conditions influence the work required before construction begins |
These factors are why two projects that appear similar in photographs can have very different final investments.
What Changes the Cost of a Custom Patio?
A custom patio may look straightforward once it is finished, but the final investment is influenced by much more than its overall size.
At Arnold Masonry and Landscape, we design custom patios using natural stone, brick, masonry materials, and other finishes selected around the architecture of the home and the intended use of the space.
Size & Layout
A larger patio requires more material and labor, but square footage alone does not determine the price.
The layout also matters.
A simple rectangular patio and a highly customized patio with curves, multiple elevations, steps, borders, seating areas, and detailed masonry may have significantly different construction requirements even if their overall sizes are similar.
Material Selection
Material choice can have a major impact on the final investment.
Natural stone, brick, and other masonry materials vary in price, appearance, installation requirements, and availability.
We also consider how the selected material complements your home and any other features being incorporated into the outdoor space.
Existing Conditions & Demolition
If an existing patio, walkway, concrete surface, or other structure needs to be removed before new construction can begin, that work becomes part of the project scope.
Demolition may involve breaking apart existing materials, removing them from the property, and preparing the area for the new construction.
Property Access
Access can significantly affect how a project is constructed.
A backyard with wide, convenient access may allow equipment and materials to move efficiently.
A property with narrow gates, limited side-yard access, steep elevations, or other restrictions can require more labor to move materials and complete the work.
Steps, Transitions & Elevation Changes
Changes in elevation can require additional planning and construction.
Custom masonry steps and transitions can help different outdoor areas connect naturally while also becoming architectural features themselves.
What Changes the Cost of an Outdoor Fireplace or Outdoor Firepit?
Outdoor fireplaces and outdoor firepits can range from relatively simple gathering areas to substantial custom masonry features.
Outdoor Fireplace Size
A large outdoor fireplace naturally requires more material and labor than a smaller design.
The overall height, width, depth, architectural detailing, and surrounding masonry can all influence the scope.
Stone & Brick Selection
Material choice has a major impact on the appearance of an outdoor fireplace or firepit.
We can coordinate stone or brick with the home, patio, outdoor kitchen, steps, seating areas, and other masonry elements.
Specialty materials and more complex installation patterns may affect the final investment.
Custom Masonry Details
Mantels, hearths, integrated seating, decorative stonework, columns, and other custom masonry elements can turn an outdoor fireplace into a major architectural feature.
Those details also add to the construction scope.
Location Within the Outdoor Space
Placement matters both aesthetically and practically.
We consider how the fireplace or firepit relates to seating areas, patios, outdoor kitchens, walkways, the home, and the overall flow of the backyard.
Arnold Masonry and Landscape does not install gas systems. If your outdoor fireplace or outdoor firepit requires gas work, that portion must be completed separately by the appropriate qualified contractor.
What Changes the Cost of an Outdoor Kitchen?
An outdoor kitchen can be anything from a focused grilling area with custom masonry and countertops to a major centerpiece of a complete outdoor entertaining space.
The final investment depends heavily on what you want the kitchen to include.
Kitchen Size & Layout
The length and configuration of the kitchen affect the amount of masonry, countertop material, and construction required.
An L-shaped or multi-section kitchen, for example, involves a different scope than a single straight cooking station.
Masonry Materials
Stone and brick can be used to coordinate the outdoor kitchen with your home and other outdoor features.
The type of masonry, installation pattern, cuts, detailing, and overall amount of material all influence the scope.
Countertops
Countertop material, dimensions, edges, openings, and overall configuration can also affect the project investment.
Appliance Openings
Outdoor kitchens can be designed around grills, refrigerators, pizza ovens, and other appliances selected by the homeowner.
The kitchen structure needs to account for the dimensions and placement of those components.
Arnold Masonry and Landscape does not install electrical, gas, water, or plumbing systems. Our work focuses on the applicable masonry and hardscape portions of the outdoor kitchen.
What Should a Detailed Hardscape Estimate Include?
When comparing hardscape estimates, the lowest number does not necessarily represent the same project.
Two contractors can provide very different prices because the proposed scope, materials, preparation, and construction details are different.
A detailed estimate should make it easier to understand what you are actually paying for.
Depending on the project, the written scope may address:
- Demolition
- Site preparation
- Materials
- Masonry construction
- Patio construction
- Outdoor kitchen structure
- Outdoor fireplace construction
- Outdoor firepit construction
- Walkways
- Steps
- Built-in seating
- Custom masonry details
- Cleanup
- Material selections or allowances
- Project exclusions
- Payment schedule
- Estimated construction scope
At Arnold Masonry and Landscape, after we evaluate your project, we provide a detailed proposal outlining our scope of work, materials, and pricing.
We want you to understand what is included before construction begins.
Why Detailed Scope Matters When Comparing Hardscape Quotes
Imagine receiving two quotes for what appears to be the same outdoor project.
One is significantly less expensive than the other.
At first glance, choosing the lower quote may seem obvious.
But are they actually quoting the same project?
One contractor may have included demolition while another did not.
One may have specified a particular natural stone while another included a basic material allowance.
One may include custom steps, detailed masonry, or cleanup that is absent from the other proposal.
That is why homeowners should compare scope to scope, not simply price to price.
Questions to Ask When Reviewing a Hardscape Estimate
Before choosing a contractor, make sure you understand:
- What materials are included?
- Is demolition included?
- What site preparation is included?
- Are steps and transitions included?
- What masonry details are included?
- Is cleanup included?
- Are material selections finalized or allowances?
- What is specifically excluded?
- How are requested changes handled?
- What is the expected payment schedule?
- What happens if the project scope changes?
A detailed written proposal can help prevent misunderstandings once construction begins.
From Request a Quote to Written Estimate: What Happens Next?
We believe homeowners should understand the process before committing to a major outdoor project.
Here is how our process begins.
1. Request a Quote
The first step is completing our Request a Quote form.
Tell us what you are considering, where the project is located, and what you would like the finished space to accomplish.
Helpful information can include:
- Photos of the existing space
- Inspiration photos
- Features you want to include
- Approximate project timing
- How you plan to use the space
- Any existing features that may need to be removed
Providing more information helps us understand your project before the next step.
2. On-Site Consultation
If the project appears to be a good fit, we can schedule an on-site consultation.
We charge a $100 consultation fee, which is applied toward your project if you choose to move forward with us.
The consultation gives us an opportunity to see the property in person and discuss your ideas.
3. Site Review & Measurements
We evaluate the existing space, take relevant measurements, look at property access, review existing structures, and consider other site conditions that may affect the project.
A photograph can tell us a lot, but it cannot tell us everything about a property.
Seeing the space in person allows us to develop a more accurate understanding of what the project may require.
4. Design & Material Discussion
We discuss materials, layout, features, and how you want the finished space to function.
For complete outdoor living projects, this may include coordinating the design of patios, outdoor kitchens, outdoor fireplaces, outdoor firepits, walkways, steps, built-in seating, and custom masonry.
5. Written Proposal
After evaluating the project, we prepare a detailed proposal outlining our scope of work, materials, and pricing.
This becomes the basis for understanding what is included in the project before construction begins.
6. Scheduling & Construction
Once the project is approved, we move into scheduling and construction.
Scheduling can depend on project scope, material availability, weather, and our existing construction calendar.
We prefer to establish realistic expectations rather than promise a construction date before we understand the actual project.
7. Final Walkthrough
Once our work is complete, we walk through the project with you to review the finished scope and answer questions about your new outdoor space.
Example: Pricing a Complete Outdoor Living Project
Consider a homeowner who wants to transform an underused backyard into an entertaining space.
The project could potentially include:
- A custom natural stone patio
- An outdoor kitchen structure
- An outdoor fireplace
- Custom masonry steps
- Built-in seating
- Walkways connecting the different areas
The cost cannot accurately be determined by looking at patio square footage alone.
The outdoor fireplace is its own substantial masonry feature.
The outdoor kitchen requires custom construction around the desired layout and selected appliances.
Steps and walkways add additional masonry and labor.
Material selections can also change the scope significantly.
And if existing construction needs to be removed before work begins, demolition becomes another part of the project.
This is why we evaluate the complete project, rather than relying on one generic cost-per-square-foot number.
Why Atlanta Homeowners Choose Arnold Masonry and Landscape
We have served Atlanta and North Atlanta since 1985.
Over those decades, we have designed and built custom patios, masonry, outdoor fireplaces, outdoor firepits, outdoor kitchens, walkways, steps, and complete outdoor living environments.
Decades of Masonry Experience
Masonry is at the heart of much of what we do.
Natural stone and brick require experienced craftsmanship, particularly when several masonry features need to work together as one overall design.
We consider material selection, scale, patterns, transitions, architectural details, and how the finished project relates to your home.
Highly Rated by Homeowners
We are proud of the reputation we have built throughout Atlanta and North Atlanta.
Homeowners have shared positive experiences with us across Google, Houzz, and other review platforms, frequently highlighting our craftsmanship, communication, professionalism, responsiveness, attention to detail, and finished projects.
Award-Winning Design & Service
Our work has earned Arnold Masonry and Landscape numerous Best of Houzz awards for Design and Service over the years.
For homeowners comparing contractors, we encourage you to look beyond marketing claims.
Read reviews. Look at completed projects. Compare the type of work each company has actually completed. And make sure you understand the written scope before making your decision.
Serving Atlanta and North Atlanta
We provide custom hardscape and masonry construction throughout Atlanta and North Atlanta, including:
Atlanta • Buckhead • Sandy Springs • Roswell • Johns Creek • Alpharetta • Marietta • Smyrna • Brookhaven • Milton • Woodstock • Kennesaw • Vinings • Cumming • Chastain Park • East Cobb • North Atlanta
Project requirements and site conditions can vary significantly from one property to another, which is another reason we prefer to evaluate the actual property before providing detailed project pricing.
Request a Quote for Your Atlanta Hardscape Project
If you are considering a custom patio, outdoor fireplace, outdoor firepit, outdoor kitchen, custom masonry, walkway, steps, built-in seating, or a complete outdoor living transformation, the first step is telling us about your project.
Our projects currently have a $15,000 minimum investment.
We charge a $100 on-site consultation fee, which is applied toward your project if you choose to move forward with us.
Ready to Get Started?
Complete our Request a Quote form and tell us:
- Where your project is located
- What you would like to build
- Which features you are considering
- How you want to use the finished space
- Your approximate project timing
Photos of your existing space and inspiration images are also helpful.
Want to see more before contacting us? View our local hardscape projects and read our customer reviews to learn more about our work throughout Atlanta and North Atlanta.
Hardscape Cost Estimate FAQs
There is no single price that accurately represents every custom hardscape project.
Our projects currently have a $15,000 minimum investment, and our Houzz profile lists our typical project range at approximately $15,000 to $250,000.
The final investment depends on factors including project size, demolition, site access, material selections, masonry complexity, elevation changes, outdoor kitchens, outdoor fireplaces, outdoor firepits, steps, walkways, built-in seating, and the number of features included in the overall project.
A site consultation allows us to better understand your property and proposed scope before developing detailed pricing.
Square footage is only one part of a custom hardscape estimate.
Two patios with identical square footage could involve different materials, layouts, site access, demolition requirements, steps, elevations, masonry details, and connections to other outdoor features.
For that reason, we prefer to evaluate the complete scope rather than suggest that one square-foot number accurately represents every project.
A written estimate should clearly explain what the contractor is proposing to build.
Depending on the project, that may include demolition, site preparation, materials, construction, masonry details, cleanup, allowances, exclusions, payment terms, and other project-specific information.
When comparing estimates, make sure you are comparing similar scopes rather than looking only at the final price.
Yes.
We charge a $100 consultation fee, and that amount is applied toward your project if you choose to move forward with us.
Before scheduling the consultation, start with our Request a Quote form so we can learn more about the project you are considering.
Deposit and payment terms should be clearly stated in the project proposal and agreement.
Because those terms can depend on the specific project, refer to the written proposal for the payment schedule applicable to your project.
Construction time depends on the size and complexity of the project, materials, site conditions, weather, and our existing construction schedule.
A focused masonry project and a complete outdoor living transformation involving a patio, outdoor kitchen, outdoor fireplace, steps, and other custom features will naturally have different construction timelines.
We discuss the anticipated project schedule after we understand the actual scope.
No. Arnold Masonry and Landscape does not install electrical, gas, water, or plumbing systems.
Our work focuses on custom masonry, patios, outdoor kitchens, outdoor fireplaces, outdoor firepits, walkways, steps, built-in seating, and complete hardscape and outdoor living construction.
We design and construct applicable masonry and hardscape portions of custom outdoor kitchens.
Depending on the approved scope, this may include the kitchen structure, stone or brick finishes, countertops, appliance openings, preparation areas, storage areas, and other masonry components.
We do not install electrical, gas, water, or plumbing systems.
