All Hale Concrete recently completed a front yard project in the heart of Sugarhouse, Utah that turned a steep lawn into a clean, modern landscape with structure, purpose, and serious curb appeal. The homeowners came to Ryan Hale with a vision to level out their sloped yard and create something timeless — and after two weeks of careful excavation and craftsmanship, that vision came to life.
The Challenge: A Sloped Yard with Limited Function
Before we started, the front yard had a sharp incline that made mowing and maintenance difficult. The homeowner wanted to create a modern, tiered look with spaces for future landscaping while improving the connection from the sidewalk to the front porch. The design called for multiple retaining walls, clean concrete lines, and a stair system that felt both inviting and architectural.
The Plan and Preparation
We began by excavating and grading the front yard to establish a stable base for the new concrete retaining walls and steps. Sod and soil were removed and hauled off-site with some left for backfilling.
Before we constructed the walls, we formed and poured footings to ensure long-term stability. Using our snap-tie form system, we built 112 linear feet of 8-inch-thick retaining walls, ranging from 2 to 3.5 feet tall. The crisp chamfer edges added a subtle detail that elevates the overall look and gives the concrete a more refined finish.
Building the Modern Entry
Once the walls were in place, we formed and poured the cantilever-style stairs—a bold design feature that gives the entryway depth and visual balance. The steps were poured at 6 feet wide and tapered slightly for a sleek, geometric appearance. The homeowner plans to incorporate lighting under the steps, adding even more dimension once the full landscape is complete.
Next, we poured a 17x5-foot sidewalk with a paver-style layout pattern. This subtle design touch ties the modern look together while keeping the surface durable and low-maintenance for everyday use.
The Final Result
The transformation speaks for itself. What was once an uneven, sloping yard is now a structured, elevated front space that enhances both curb appeal and property value. The retaining walls frame the home beautifully, the stairs make a strong architectural statement, and the flat terraces open up possibilities for planting and outdoor decor.
This was one of those projects that required determination, problem-solving, and precision from start to finish—and our crew delivered. The homeowners now have a front yard that’s not only practical but truly stands out in the neighborhood.
Ready to Bring Your Vision to Life?
Whether you’re looking to modernize your yard with retaining walls or create a custom concrete patio for family gatherings, All Hale Concrete can help you accomplish it.
We specialize in residential flatwork including concrete driveways, RV pads, patios, walkways, stairs, retaining walls, and even footings and foundations.
Request a bid today to start planning your own transformation — visit AllHaleConcrete.com or contact us directly to discuss your project.