Customer Testimonials

• Client: Toni Isbell
• Project: Outdoor kitchen, fireplace, fire pit, fencing, water feature, and landscaping including raised flowerbeds and sod
• Why: She lives on 25 acres of rugged Texas land and she was ready to create a beautiful sanctuary that she could come home to and enjoy.
• Extreme Exteriors Services Used:  Design, Construction, and Maintenance

Before the Extreme Exteriors team began work, Toni described the backyard as “waist deep in tumbleweeds and sticker burrs.” Toni built a covered patio area about five years ago but she had dreams of transforming her simple patio into a dynamic outdoor living area.

The dream started to come together last fall when she presented company president and designer, Randy Glenn, with an abundance of ideas. That included adding a large outdoor fireplace to the existing patio. Toni is exceptionally knowledgeable and talented, and once considered building everything on her own!  “I have sixteen years in residential construction, so if I had wanted to, I could have done it myself. The time came where I was in a position to just have it done.” As she consulted with Randy, she developed total confidence in Extreme Exteriors’ ability to meet her ideals.

One of the most pleasant features in the new outdoor area is the water fountain, especially this time of year when plants are dormant. Toni thought about having a waterfall cascading into a pond in a back corner of the property, but during the design phase she agreed that a water fountain would be more suitable in the proposed location. Now when she’s inside her home, she can look out and watch the water gently splash from the fountain. An altogether more pleasing view than a pond built further away would have offered. The outdoor fireplace made from Oklahoma flagstone is also clearly visible and even when it’s not in use the seamless visual flow from house to outdoor area provides a striking aesthetic.

Adjacent to the outdoor fireplace is an outdoor kitchen made of Leuders stone, complete with Bull grill, refrigerator, sink, and bar seating. Toni had praise for Randy when describing how he cooperated with her to come up with the right look: “We were able to bounce ideas back and forth until we came up with this design.” She was also very happy that during the entire building process she was listened to and respected. Jake Griffith, the construction manager, always told her when he could be there and he stayed on top of things. This was very reassuring and raised her confidence in the entire team.

Now that everything is complete, Toni’s already hosted a few large events, such as gathering for Thanksgiving and for her brother’s 50^th birthday party.  When guests come, there’s an abundance of options for sitting out and relaxing by the fire. Friends can pull up a cozy chair next to the fireplace, or they can chat comfortably around the fire pit. “We had over 50 people here for my brother’s birthday,” Toni said. “People were enjoying the patio and kids were roasting s’mores at the fire pit. My nephew was playing his guitar and my fiancée Martin was on the drums — everyone was jamming!”

Toni also really enjoys the raised flower beds. She’s looking forward to spring when plants such as desert willows and crape myrtles will bloom. She will also add more flowers in preparation for her daughter’s June wedding. She knows her beautiful home, with its remarkable outdoor features, will provide the perfect setting for this special event. Toni looks forward to more memorable events ahead with her grandson and other friends and family.  We feel honored that Toni chose Extreme Exteriors to build her spacious and beautiful outdoor living area. We know that she will enjoy it for many years to come!

• Clients: Adam and Deann Munoz
• Project: Front and Backyard Landscaping, Irrigation System, Patio with Custom Built Firepit, Pool with Sunken Kitchen, Swim-Up Bar, and Grotto Seating Area
• Why: Adam and Deann wanted a custom pool and backyard with plenty of visual interest to fit their custom built home
• Extreme Exteriors Services Used: Design and Construction

Imagine that you’re barbecuing dinner, carefully checking to make sure your steaks don’t get overcooked, but you’re always glancing over your shoulder and wondering what everyone is talking and laughing about.   You definitely know you’re missing out on the fun and you may very well be ruining your food at the same time!

When Adam Munoz stopped by Extreme Exteriors and saw photos of a pool we had made with a sunken outdoor kitchen, he knew he had a solution. At Adam’s previous home, he was cooking and running back and forth between the pool and the grill. Now he can talk, grill, and serve up tasty concoctions to any swim-up bar guests.

Deann and Adam’s outdoor space was a blank canvas, and the Extreme Exteriors design team was able to come up with a plan that showcased the pool and provided plenty of room for the kids and dogs to play. The pool is built for fun, from a beach entry with bubblers, to the swim-up bar, to the grotto seating behind the waterfall. The pool looks great from any angle, but Adam is especially happy that they can see it well from the moment they step through the front door of their home. The backyard was finished off in a worry-free way, with a complete irrigation system, easy to care for plants, and a wood-burning firepit.  The front yard irrigation system was also installed and the borders were planted with beautiful trees, shrubs, and grasses.

When it came to working with Extreme Exteriors, it was experience that counted for them. Adam and Deann had worked with a different pool builder at their previous home and were disappointed with how long they took to build the pool and how they didn’t leave things cleaned up. Adam was also concerned about how other pool builders sometimes say, “Yeah, we can do that,” when talking about a pool feature, but they don’t really know how to build it. “We felt comfortable going with someone who has experience, “Adam said, “Randy gave us a lot of good ideas and I liked how he presented us with visual examples of how it would look.”

As much as Adam, Deann, and their kids use and enjoy their backyard they always hope their guests feel equally at home. “We want everyone to feel that they’re included in the party — whether they’re hanging out in the pool, eating at the bar, or relaxing by the firepit.”  The Munoz family’s great hospitality is now matched with an equally great outdoor living space.

• Clients: Cary Corthron and Lota Zoth Family Property
• Projects: Custom Pool, Irrigation, Firepit, Patio, Fencing, Putting Green, Pergolas
• Why: To enhance their naturally beautiful landscape, creating a place of serenity that is enjoyable to family and guests alike
• Extreme Exteriors Services Used: Design and Construction, Retail, Maintenance, Outdoor Lighting, Outdoor Living

In 2000, a family decision was made to buy property and build a home suitable for two families. The home was designed to suit Lota’s sister Ruth Ann, and Ruth Ann and Lota’s aging mother, Lovelle.  Ruth Ann and her husband Tom took care of Lovelle full-time until she passed away in September of 2007. In the months preceding her passing, Lota and Cary spent time there with her and realized how much they liked the location. After discussing it, they decided to move from Maryland and live there full-time. This works because Lota frequently travels for meetings between the east coast and the west coast, so Texas was a good in-between.

Lota’s sister always wanted a pool, and as a way to say thank-you for the love and care that Ruth Ann gave to their mother, they began researching ideas for a beautiful pool. They were able to meet with company president Randy Glenn and were quickly impressed with the unique pools that he had completed in the past. The design he drew up was a continuation of that unique vision, with a custom hot tub, a rock waterfall with fiber optic lighting, a beach entry, and a sunning area. They loved the design and work was commenced in the fall of 2007. The pool was surrounded with stained concrete, which extended into a patio area and outdoor kitchen. The patio was recently resurfaced with Soci tile pavers, after a few hard winters had damaged the surface layer of the concrete. Even though they could have simply resurfaced the concrete, Lota mentioned how Randy has come to know what they like and so when he recommended the new Soci travertine pavers, she agreed they would make a great addition.

Between the time that the pool was completed in 2008 and the pavers were added in 2015, many more changes have been made to enhance the look and livability of their outdoor space.  Cary asked Randy to add a seven-hole putting green for Lota’s birthday one year. What a great surprise it was for her when she came home from traveling and found a brand-new fun feature to enjoy. They recently added a large pergola over the putting green so that they can use it more often during the summer.

Lota and Cary also needed a way to contain their furry friends so they wouldn’t jump in the pool, so a separate enclosure was created for their dogs. The Extreme Exteriors team added an irrigation system and a back patio where someone can sit in an Adirondack chair and throw balls for the dogs to chase.

One of the most beautiful aspects of this property has nothing to do with Extreme Exteriors at all. Behind the pool is what Lota describes as a natural amphitheater of rock that forms a visually interesting backdrop to the entire backyard. This backdrop, although amazing, did pose its own challenges as rainwater draining off of it would quickly end up as standing water in the backyard. Lota said it’s been a very positive experience with how the Extreme Exteriors team has been able to troubleshoot the water problems and come up with multiple ways to carry water towards the front driveway, where it can flow into a drain grate. She said that the system of sump pumps, trenches, and creation of a berm to solve the water issues showed a maturity in thought and execution that makes her incredibly pleased.

Lota recognizes that the challenging landscape surrounding their home is also what makes it unique and beautiful. The enhancements to the landscape that she and her husband have chosen to undertake have made it a place where she feels calm, relaxed and serene. And in a busy, hectic world, not much more could be better than to feel that way every time you come home.

• Clients: Steve and Joy Ellinger
• Project: Backyard Landscape, Outdoor Lighting, and Outdoor Living
• Why: Their outdoor living area gives them another option for personal relaxation and for entertaining guests
• Extreme Exterior Services Used: Design, Construction, Lighting

As an experienced and respected architect, Steve Ellinger had a clear vision for his outdoor living area. He was looking for a team of people that could take his vision and make it a reality. “Every building I design, I want it built the best way possible. I was looking for a contractor who shows that same commitment; and I wanted to work with someone with the best business ethics and professionalism.” Thankfully Steve was able to find that in Extreme Exteriors. Steve’s son had worked for Randy Glenn, company president, and he knew the type of person Randy is. With his son’s personal experience and Steve’s knowledge of other projects that Randy had completed, he was comfortable moving ahead.  “Randy was able to execute my design in a manner that was very well done. He shared the vision and was very responsive.”

Steve and Randy were able to collaborate on a backyard design that helped define a large space. Steve and Joy’s property extends out for two acres, so they wanted to limit the view by creating a curved wall
and placing contemporary looking potted plants nearby. He wanted an overall look and feel that matched the modern design of his home. “If you have clean design, it will always look good,” he said.

Steve’s favorite aspect of the design is the fire table,
not only for its own appeal, but also how it contrasts with the water fountain. “The fire and water are totally contradictory, but complement each other at the same time.” The Extreme Exteriors team consulted Steve on the type of fire table he was looking for and was able to order it from a company in Los Angeles. Steve was pleased that Extreme Exteriors had the resourcefulness to find the right pieces to “complete the picture.” The Ellingers are looking forward to a second phase to the design and Steve wouldn’t consider using anybody else.  “My design was very different than what I’ve seen Extreme Exteriors do and I cannot compliment you enough.”

Clients: Kirk and Suzie Boyd

Project: Front and Backyard Landscape, Water Feature, Firepit, Pergolas

Why: Desire to have another complete outdoor living area to enjoy the beautiful views

Extreme Exteriors Services Used: Design and Construction, Outdoor Lighting

Like many Texans, Kirk and Suzie Boyd like to take advantage of the pleasant weather that we’re blessed with most of the year. They had this in mind when choosing their home site, which gives them a great view of the neighborhood’s greenbelt.  When it was time to start planning their outdoor living areas, Extreme Exteriors was recommended by their homebuilder.

Suzie and Kirk initially met with Randy Glenn, company president, and expressed their desires to include a water feature and a firepit in the design. Because the Boyd’s had a new home built, they were also interested in a landscape plan for the front and back yards.  “Randy jumped right on it,” Kirk said. “And as changes were made to the initial design, the designers immediately got back to me.” The Boyd’s wanted to xeriscape large areas of the front and backyard, choosing some sod to complement the look. A variety of plants including Mexican feather grass, vitex, and golden esperanza were added to create plenty of visual interest.

One challenge that arose during construction was the placement of one of the pergolas. The pergola pictured here is actually the second one built. The first pergola went further out over the water feature and Kirk and Suzie were very happy with how it looked. Unfortunately, city planners took issue with its proximity to property lines and it had to be taken down.  This second one was built at a slightly modified location. Kirk was happy with the way that the Extreme Exteriors team was able to manage this unforeseen challenge. “When there were issues with the pergola, everything was just taken care of. If I had a question, someone answered it in a friendly way.”

The Boyd’s now have a unique and beautiful outdoor living space. Kirk expressed how he’s happy with everything that Extreme Exteriors created, and hopes that anyone who’s thinking of enhancing their outdoors will take us into consideration.  We’re so pleased that Kirk and Suzie trusted us to help make their new home look absolutely amazing; and we hope they’ll create many happy memories as they enjoy their new outdoor living areas.

Clients: Olafemi and Janetta Olaseni

Project: Front Yard and Backyard Landscape, Irrigation, Retail, Outdoor Lighting, Pool and Spa

Why: “We’re people of excellence and our home reflects that. I thank God for everything he’s given us.”

Extreme Exteriors Services Used: Design, Construction, Retail, Routine Maintenance

The Olasenis wanted to create a beautiful outdoor space, and the Extreme Exteriors team began from square one. Their home was in a new development, so the first step was to clear away the scrub brush, add an irrigation system, and plant grass. The design plan for the front yard and backyard followed next, which included a pool in the backyard and an oil jar fountain in the front yard. Olafemi and Janetta had a chance to review pictures of different pools to choose which style they liked best. Olafemi said, “We were debating about including the spa, but I’m glad we did it. We go in there all the time.” His children and their friends love the pool and backyard so much that the kids’ friends don’t want to go home!

As evidenced from the pictures, the Olaseni’s design is nearly complete. Stone will be added around the fountain’s perimeter, more pottery will be added, and the Extreme Exteriors team will add  gutters to the Olaseni’s home as rainwater tends to wash away mulch from the front flower beds. Olafemi is also excited about having the maintenance team keep the yard looking great. “I don’t have time for it and I don’t like to do yard work myself, so it’s good that I can have Extreme Exteriors do the maintenance.” One of Olafemi’s favorite things about working with Extreme Exteriors is the open lines of communication. “The customer service is really good. I can call and ask a question and receive a prompt reply. I appreciate the responsiveness.” He’s also happy with the price of the pool. He had called other pool designers and felt that the price was too high. “Extreme Exteriors’ cost was very reasonable,” he said.

He likes how Extreme Exteriors was able to use his water well for the pool and hooked up everything in a logical manner. He feels like the pool is easy to maintain, and especially enjoys using his remote control from inside the house to warm up the pool, so that it’s the perfect temperature when they’re ready to go out.

Olafemi and Janetta have a lot of guests over and feel a sense of satisfaction and pride in how their home looks from every angle. Olafemi said, “It was a collaborative effort, and in the end we got exactly what we wanted. I would recommend Extreme Exteriors to anyone.”

Clients: Karen and Tom O’Brien

Project: Pool Remodel, Backyard Landscape, Outdoor Lighting

Why: To create a beautiful, inviting extension of their home

Extreme Exteriors Services Used: Design and Construction

In a private oasis in Midland, you’ll find Karen and Tom O’Brien enjoying their redesigned pool in a setting distinguished by beautiful pavers and lush landscaping. But it wasn’t always that way. Theoretically, Karen and Tom’s backyard should have been low-maintenance.  But in reality, problem areas begged for a solution. “The brown tiles showed all of the dirt and several of them were coming loose,” Karen said. “Not only that, the pool deck drainage system was ineffective. We did have the option to simply redo the existing tile work, but we decided we wanted to redesign for a simple, peaceful aesthetic.”

Karen and Tom had a vision of how a redesign of their pool area would appear, and Extreme Exteriors worked with them to realize the look they desired. They wanted to retain the functionality of the pool which features a deep end and elevated deck, but they wanted a distinctive, tasteful appearance. “I wanted something other than the grey plaster that was there, and I wanted to add just a tiny bit of color. The staff at Extreme Exteriors helped me a lot in making selections that would go well together.” Karen and Tom opted to go with an eye-catching tile called “Mariana Green” which was set both below the deck and around the pool’s perimeter. Their pool floor is finished in a contrasting pebble plaster, “Black Onyx.” They also elected to place crème brulee Versailles travertine pavers that look beautiful, hide dirt effectively, and allow any standing water to drain off smoothly. An additional design change called for removal of a large, non-functioning fountain at the south end of the pool. Extreme Exteriors team members broke up the fountain and at first glance, Karen said, “it looked like a stick of dynamite had gone off in the backyard!” Karen was prepared though because “Jake told me, it’s going to look a lot worse before it looks better.”  Karen said she enjoyed watching the pool take on a new life. “I would watch the guys work and I’d sit there and be amazed as they added the pavers.” Extreme Exteriors not only added new pavers around the pool, but also extended a walkway to the side yard to achieve a consistent look. The deck area overlooking the pool was an existing feature that Karen and Tom wanted to keep, mainly because their grandkids like to jump from it into the deep end. The elevated deck was pulled apart during the pool resurfacing and tile work, but steps were taken by the Extreme Exteriors team to make sure it all came back together seamlessly. Karen added her own patio furniture and pottery to complete the look of her tranquil backyard. “We have so many views of the pool—from the den, from the front room, and from Tom’s office.   We wanted a serene, zen-like feeling.” And that’s what Extreme Exteriors achieved, leaving Karen and Tom very happy with the finished pool and pool deck. They were originally introduced to Extreme Exteriors by friends, and now they’re sharing their good experience with others. “We’ve recommended Extreme Exteriors to several people. We’ve been really pleased.”

Meet Micah and Erin Greathouse

• Clients: Micah and Erin Greathouse
• Project: Front Yard and Backyard Landscape, Pool, and Outdoor Living
• Why: Being able to host family and friends improves their quality of life as they make special memories
• Extreme Exteriors Services Used: Design, Construction, Routine Maintenance, and Retail

Micah and Erin Greathouse have enjoyed their Extreme Exteriors pool for several months and recently decided they would like a pool house added. They contacted our designers and set the process in motion.

We’re highlighting them this month as one of our favorite works in progress.  Homeowner Erin Greathouse recently spoke with us about her plans and what she’s looking forward to most. When asked what her biggest motivation was in adding to their existing space, she said, “We wanted a space where our family and friends could come together and enjoy our outdoor oasis.  Whether it’s the pool during the heat of the summer or watching football in the game room during the fall and winter.”

Erin is looking forward to utilizing the space for parties, a play area for her daughter and friends, and taking advantage of the new steam shower.

“Extreme Exteriors has been a joy to work with. They have been open to every idea and any change that we’ve thrown at them. Although the project has grown immensely from what we originally planned they have accepted the challenge! We are so excited to see the finished results and are looking forward to using the pool house of our dreams.”

Extreme Exteriors is thrilled with the opportunity to further enhance the Greathouse’s backyard oasis. Working together, their vision is getting closer to becoming a reality!