Unique Landscapes & Custom Pools is a trusted custom pool builder in Cave Creek, AZ, specializing in pool design, pool construction, pool remodeling, and complete backyard environments. Cave Creek’s setting—where custom homes are sited on large rural lots amid saguaro‑studded hillsides—demands a builder who understands desert topography and the western character of this town. Our in‑house designers and craftsmen create pools that respect the Sonoran Desert backdrop, preserve privacy, and take advantage of panoramic views
Whether you’re planning a new pool, upgrading an existing one, or building a full backyard environment, working with a professional Cave Creek pool builder ensures your project is designed correctly, built efficiently, and performs long‑term in Arizona’s climate.
Homeowners searching for a trusted pool builder in Cave Creek are typically looking for a backyard that matches the rustic luxury of their neighborhood. Across communities like Desert Mountain, Lone Mountain, Rancho Manana, and Stagecoach Pass, homes are built on expansive parcels with natural desert vegetation and limited disturbance areas. Many lots are non‑HOA and rely on gravel roads or private drives, while hillside subdivisions enforce design guidelines to protect view corridors. This means backyard construction must be intentional—respecting drainage patterns, hillside ordinances, and the town’s western architectural style
What sets Unique Companies apart:
Unique Landscapes & Custom Pools has over 24 years of experience designing and building custom pools and outdoor environments throughout Cave Creek and the North Valley.
🕒 Store Hours
Monday – Friday
7 AM–5 PM
Saturday – Sunday
Closed
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As a custom pool builder in Cave Creek, we design and construct swimming pools that respond directly to the property’s layout, elevation, and surrounding environment. Many Cave Creek lots require custom grading, structural consideration, and layout planning to ensure the pool integrates naturally with the land.
Landscape Design Cave Creek
Professional landscape design in Cave Creek requires a strong understanding of desert ecology, drainage flow, and long-term water management. Unlike traditional suburban landscaping, Cave Creek projects often incorporate native terrain, existing vegetation, and natural elevation changes into the final design.
Pool Remodeling in Cave Creek
A pool remodel in Cave Creek often involves more than surface updates. Many older pools were built without considering modern efficiency, layout flow, or how the backyard is used today. Renovation allows homeowners to improve both performance and design.
Backyard Builder in Cave Creek
As a full backyard builder in Cave Creek, we design and construct complete outdoor environments that include pools, landscape, and outdoor living features in one coordinated plan. This is especially important on larger properties where layout flow and spacing matter.
What Our Cave Creek Customers Are Saying
Unique Delivers Quality and Care Every Step of the Way!
Went with Unique because I knew it would be done right and with quality components and materials. They regularly checked in to ensure everything was going according to my expectations and answered any questions. Came out exactly the way it should.
Chris Byars
Top-Notch Design, Craftsmanship, and Service
We had an outdoor kitchen built, an outdoor bathroom built, and an expansive irrigation system installed by Unique. We also had their team fix existing drainage issues. The price was competitive, the design process was detailed and complete (and fun), the interactions with the staff were always friendly and professional. The final product was beautiful and matched what was described in the design phase. I highly recommend this company based on their integrity, work ethic, competence, and interactions with their team. This company has created a high benchmark for craftsmanship and client relationships. I recommend them 100%.
Debra Sheets
Flawless Backyard Transformation
We recently had a whole backyard remodel done by Unique. We are thrilled with the final project! It was a long and complicated process (our backyard was 90% gutted) but was so pleasant from start to finish. We had a competent team that would pass on to the next person flawlessly and circle back when needed. We would choose Unique again if we ever found ourselves in need of another backyard remodel. Thanks Unique for hopefully years of backyard fun in the sun!!
Sherri Donovan
Unique Exceeded Expectations!
Kevin from their design team was great. Really listened and took the time to come to our house and sketch things out. Also the building process was great with constant updates thru their web portal. Timeline was wonderful. 7 months start to finish in 2022 during pool build supply chain issues!!!
Cole Philips
Our Pool Design & Construction Process
From Vision to Poolside — In 5 Easy Steps
Step 1
Schedule Consultation
We start with a quick conversation about your goals, space, and budget. Whether in-person or virtual
Step 2
Design & Showroom
You’ll visit our design studio and showroom to hand-pick materials, finishes, and features. See 3D renderings of your pool and landscape
Step 3
Construction Begins
Our project team handles permits, prep, and build. We coordinate everything — excavation, plumbing, electrical, and installation
Step 4
Updates & Walkthrough
We keep you informed at every milestone. You’ll see progress photos, get timeline updates, and do a final walkthrough
Step 5
Enjoy Your New Backyard
Fire up the grill, pour a drink, and dive in. Your new outdoor space is ready for years of relaxation, entertainment, and pride.
What Cave Creek Homeowners Should Know Before Building a Pool
Cave Creek neighborhoods often have unique visual and environmental standards compared to many Valley communities. Large rural parcels outside HOAs allow for creative freedom but also require diligence with septic systems, wells, and natural drainage. Hillside regulations limit the amount of land that can be disturbed and may dictate pool placement and driveway slope. Washes must be respected, with engineered channels and retention to protect homes during monsoon storms. Choosing an experienced Cave Creek pool builder reduces the risk of delays, layout problems, or backyard elements that feel disconnected once construction is complete.
One Team, Your Vision
One of the biggest advantages of working with a design‑build pool contractor in Cave Creek is coordination. Rather than hiring separate companies for pool design, pool construction, landscaping, hillside engineering, and outdoor features, homeowners can work through one process with one team guiding the layout and build sequence.
Designed for Desert Terrain
Cave Creek properties often include rocky soil, natural washes, and elevation changes. These conditions affect excavation, drainage, and structural design. A properly planned project accounts for these factors early to avoid costly adjustments later.
Building a pool is one of the most important upgrades a homeowner can make to an outdoor space, and choosing the right pool builder in Cave Creek has a major impact on the final outcome. The best projects are not just visually attractive; they are properly planned for the lot, the home, and the way the backyard will actually be used. On hillside lots, pools may be partially raised or terraced to follow the natural slope, while level desert parcels allow expansive decks with panoramic views.
Our custom pool work in Gilbert may include:
A complete Cave Creek pool remodel gives homeowners the opportunity to transform an outdated or underperforming pool into a more functional and modern outdoor space. In established areas like Rancho Manana, many pools were built decades ago using older finishes and equipment that now show wear from sun and chemical exposure. Remodeling allows those spaces to be updated visually and structurally while honoring hillside limitations.
Our custom pool builder approach plans the pool, hardscape, and outdoor living elements together so the entire space feels connected and intentional. Rural lots often have panoramic mountain views, so pergolas and seating areas are oriented to frame sunsets over Black Mountain or Elephant Butte.
A complete backyard does not stop at the pool. Professional landscape design in Cave Creek plays a major role in how the space looks, functions, and holds up over time. In Arizona’s climate, landscape planning is not just about appearance—it directly impacts maintenance, water usage, drainage, and long‑term durability. Desert‑adapted planting reduces water use and helps blends new construction into the natural surroundings
Cave Creek Is One of Arizona’s Best Pool Markets
Every backyard we build is fully customized—not pre‑designed or templated. As experienced Cave Creek AZ pool builders, we provide detailed 3D designs, realistic timelines, and consistent oversight so homeowners always know what to expect. Our experience with hillside lots, septic systems, and desert vegetation ensures that each project not only looks stunning but also functions properly in this rugged terrain.
Unique Companies stands out among pool builders in Cave Creek AZ because we focus on smart design, durable construction, and long‑term satisfaction. Whether you’re building a new pool, upgrading an existing one, or planning a complete outdoor transformation, our team brings the expertise to make it happen.
Start Your Free Design Today
Don’t settle for a mediocre backyard. Get the transformation you deserve and start living the good life.
A pool remodel in Cave Creek can range from surface updates to full structural renovations depending on the condition of the existing pool. Many older pools in the area were built with outdated finishes, inefficient equipment, or layouts that no longer match how homeowners use their backyard. Remodeling allows for upgrades in appearance, functionality, and efficiency while improving how the pool integrates with the surrounding space. A professional pool remodeling contractor in Cave Creek will evaluate both cosmetic and structural improvements.
Yes, many pool remodeling projects in Cave Creek include layout changes, especially on larger properties where there is room to reconfigure the space. Homeowners often add features like spas, baja shelves, or expanded shallow areas to better match how the pool is used. In some cases, modifying the layout improves flow between the pool, patio, and outdoor living areas. Working with an experienced Cave Creek pool contractor ensures structural changes are done correctly and safely.
For many homeowners, a pool remodel in Cave Creek is a better investment than building new, especially if the structure is still sound. Updating finishes, equipment, and layout can significantly improve both the appearance and functionality of the pool. In areas with custom homes and larger properties, remodeling also allows the backyard to be brought up to modern design standards. A well-planned renovation can extend the life of the pool while improving long-term performance.
Landscape design in Cave Creek requires a different approach than traditional suburban landscaping due to desert conditions and larger property sizes. Factors like water usage, drainage, native vegetation, and sun exposure all influence how the landscape should be planned. Many properties incorporate natural desert elements rather than fully replacing them, creating a more integrated and low-maintenance environment. A professional Cave Creek landscape designer will balance aesthetics with long-term performance.
Popular landscape design features in Cave Creek focus on durability, low maintenance, and blending with the natural desert environment. Many homeowners choose materials and layouts that complement the surrounding terrain while still creating a functional outdoor space. Lighting, hardscape, and plant selection all play a role in how the backyard looks and performs over time. A well-designed landscape supports both the pool and overall backyard usability.
Working with a pool builder in Cave Creek for a new home allows the pool and backyard to be designed alongside the house, creating a more cohesive final result. This is especially important on custom properties where layout, elevation, and access need to be planned early. Coordinating pool construction during the home build process can improve efficiency and reduce the need for rework later. An experienced custom pool builder in Cave Creek will work with the home builder to align design and construction.
The cost to hire a pool builder in Cave Creek depends on the level of customization, property conditions, and overall project scope. Standard pool builds in the area typically range from $60,000 to $100,000, while fully custom projects with upgraded features, complex layouts, or challenging access can range from $150,000 to $250,000+. Cave Creek properties often include larger lots, elevation changes, and natural desert terrain, which can increase excavation and structural requirements. When combining pool construction with landscape design or outdoor living in Cave Creek, total project cost can vary significantly depending on the full backyard scope.
The timeline for a pool builder in Cave Creek typically ranges from 9 to 16 weeks for construction, depending on design complexity and site conditions. Projects in Cave Creek can require additional planning due to elevation changes, access limitations, and natural terrain, which can impact scheduling. The full process also includes design, permitting, and pre-construction phases, which add time before construction begins. Working with an experienced Cave Creek pool contractor helps keep the project organized and reduces delays throughout the build.