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Arizona’s Best Paver Decking
California Pools and Landscape was awarded six prestigious awards for specialty pavers from the Southwest Hardscape Association, highlighting travertine and porcelain paver deck installations. The awards were presented for Residential Patio projects, Residential Swimming Pools, and Specialty Paving for Commercial projects. These honors were bestowed due to our outstanding hardscape teams and the superior building materials used by California Pools & Landscape.
The Southwest Hardscape Association Specialty Pavers category was for any paver used in an outdoor project, other than concrete pavers. Two of the award-winning residential backyard projects feature travertine pavers, and two feature porcelain paver decks.
With the distinction of winning both first and second place awards in the Residential Swimming Pool, Residential Patio, and Commercial categories, California Pools & Landscape once again solidified its position as the most awarded Hardscape installer in the Southwest, a testament to our commitment to excellence.
Each of these award-winning projects features exemplary design elements and materials that carry lifetime warranties, providing exceptional value.
Award-Winning Travertine Pool Deck Installation
1st Place - Residential Swimming Pools 2024
This Gilbert backyard is no stranger to the awards circuit, as it was also recognized with a 2024 PHTA Geometric Silver Award, a 2024 World’s Greatest Pool Award, and named the 2023 Cody Pools ‘Pool of the Year’.
Designer Aaron Heninger worked closely with the homeowners to create the ultimate Arizona oasis: a large play pool with a baja shelf, water feature walls, a swim-up bar, a sunken structure, and a stunning zero-edge perimeter overflow spa.
This Arizona paradise is all connected with 12x24 Frost tumbled travertine pavers and artificial turf, combining for an elegant aesthetic for every step in the backyard.
2nd Place - Residential Patios Over 1,000 Sq Ft 2024
Over 1,600 square feet of Noce Nuevo travertine pavers were used in this stunning xeriscape backyard in Phoenix, creating an outdoor living space that blends in with the natural desert surroundings. Because a natural wash runs through the backyard, designer Jacob Gello added a bridge over the wash to lead to the outdoor living space.
With natural elevation changes through the yard, striking staircases were added to the design, leading to natural seating areas. This stunning natural backyard is an excellent example of design possibilities without a swimming pool.
Award-Winning Porcelain Paver Installation
Porcelain pavers are our most versatile decking surface option and are the ultimate material finish for a modern backyard design. They are similar to indoor porcelain tiles but thicker and more durable to last in the outdoor environment.
Porcelain pavers typically come in 12x24 or 24x24 sizes, which look best on a geometric pool design versus a curvy, freeform design.
1st Place - Residential Patios Over 1,000 Sq Ft 2024
This modern Scottsdale, AZ backyard is a striking example of luxury desert living, combining sleek contemporary design with resort-style amenities.
The ultimate backyard features a large covered patio with several areas for gathering, before steps lead you down to a geometric pool with a raised water feature wall and a baja shelf. Over 4,800 sq ft of Frontier Series One Chalk porcelain pavers cover the raised patio from the moment that you step out of the residence. The 24x24 pavers complement the modern design aesthetic with straight lines and sharp angles.
2nd Place - Residential Swimming Pools 2024
Perched on a hillside in scenic Fountain Hills, Arizona, this modern backyard retreat features a stunning negative-edge pool that appears to spill effortlessly into the surrounding desert landscape. The outdoor space is thoughtfully designed with multiple tiers that step gracefully down the slope, enhancing both form and function.
Over 2,900 sq ft. of Cross Cut Silver 24x24 porcelain pavers are used throughout the outdoor living space, which adds sophistication with its smooth texture, neutral tones, and exceptional durability, making it ideal for the Arizona heat.
Strategic landscaping softens the structured geometry with lush green hedges, vertical cacti, and low-maintenance desert plantings that echo the natural terrain, creating a harmonious blend. Our hardscape team integrated accent lighting into the stairs, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere as the sun sets over the mountains.
Award-Winning Commercial Paver Installation
Our commercial pools and surrounding decks bring life to communities with spaces for gathering and relaxing. The decking materials need to stand up to high traffic and be built to last. Our commercial team is proud to highlight two additional awards for Commercial Specialty Pavers, which can apply to any paver product.
1st Place - Commercial Specialty Pavers 2024
2nd Place - Commercial Specialty Pavers 2024
Arizona Decking Material Options
Travertine pavers, porcelain pavers, and concrete pavers are all excellent choices for your pool decks and patios. With a variety of design materials available, finding the right material and color will depend on your design aesthetic and your budget.
Remember to consider the warranty provided to you by your installer as well as their license and accreditation for completing the work. Choosing a licensed contractor will ensure that your investment in your backyard deck starts on a solid foundation.
Since 2007, the Southwest Hardscape Association has served to continue the growth of the segmental concrete pavement industry’s information, technical training, education, and workforce development.
Jon Hayward, Creative DirectorPublished: August 22, 2025
