When this homeowner came to us, they had an underutilized backyard and a back door that opened to nothing. No usable outdoor space. No shade. No reason to go outside. They wanted something they could actually live on — not just look at.

What We Built

The centerpiece is a large elevated deck built off the second story of the home, fully covered with a tongue-and-groove wood ceiling and recessed lighting. It's the kind of space you can use on a rainy afternoon or host a crowd on a summer night. The deck framing is supported by bold black structural posts that give the whole build an intentional, architectural feel rather than an afterthought.

For the decking surface, we used composite boards in a warm walnut tone — low maintenance, built to last, and good-looking year after year. The railing system pairs white vinyl posts and rails with black aluminum balusters, a combination that photographs beautifully and holds up against the elements without painting or staining.

The stair treads are one of the design details that set this project apart: alternating charcoal and warm brown composite boards create a two-tone striped effect that's subtle but striking up close.

Below the deck, we laid a paver patio using a multi-size pattern in a blended tan, rust, and gray colorway with a contrasting charcoal soldier-course border. It ties the space together from ground level and gives the homeowners a second usable zone — shaded naturally by the deck above.

The Result

Two distinct outdoor spaces. One cohesive design. A backyard that went from bare lawn to the best room in the house.