Archadeck of Columbus just completed a backyard transformation in Vinmar Farms, a neighborhood located in Galena, Ohio. When we originally met with the homeowners they had recently purchased the home and their existing outdoor living space consisted of only an 8x 10 builder grade deck. Not only was the deck small it created a boxed in feeling of not being able to turn around in the space, and it offered no access to the backyard from the deck itself. In order to enter the backyard you had to do so from the main level of the home. Since the home included a walkout basement, not having access to the backyard from the deck was an issue they wanted to rectify.
When we met with the homeowners to discuss upgrading their outdoor living space there was another prerequisite we needed to address. Aside from all the reasons associated with the size, flow and functionality of the existing space. The homeowners, being caring dog owners, wanted a space that would give their beloved canines, and themselves, an open space to spend time outdoors together and separate.
The final design we came up with speaks to all their concerns through a new (much larger) low-maintenance deck, spacious Unilock patio and under-deck space that could provide a shady spot on those dog day afternoons. The entire space flows from one into another and offers access to the backyard AND walkout basement.
The deck is built in durable TimberTech Terrain in brown oak, this color is not only easy on the eyes, it also helps mask any dirt brought onto the deck by muddy paws. The deck also includes a white vinyl rail with a TimberTech rail cap which unifies the design. We used a three-board tread step approach to the stairs to make travel up and down into and from the deck into the yard easier for the homeowner’s aging dogs.
Just a gentle walk below the deck is the stunning curvilinear paver patio which opens up the outdoor living space possibilities for man, and man’s best friend. The patio is built with Unilock Beacon Hill Flagstone pavers in platinum with a sailor course edge in Unilock Basalt Courtstone. The patio is finished off with a cropped rotary wall of Ledgestone which compliments the edge of the patio and adds a custom touch to the entrance into the walk-out basement.
As you can see, the patio floor extends the length of the under-deck area to provide a shady spot for the homeowner’s dogs to relax on warm days. The homeowner’s plan to add low-profile outdoor furnishings to help make the under-deck area easily accessible for the dogs too.
The entire space is built with pet-friendliness and extended outdoor living capabilities in mind. The homeowners are elated with their new backyard, as are their dogs. We look forward to revisiting this project in the months ahead and capture images of our four-legged clients enjoying the space too!
If you are ready to extend your outdoor living possibilities, for all members of your family to enjoy, Archadeck of Columbus can help! We can address any special circumstances and expertly refine an outdoor living space to address those needs. Contact us today to learn more at (740) 879 – 3730 or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net.
Low-maintenance is defined as requiring little work to keep in good condition. When most homeowners think about adding a low-maintenance outdoor living space, they often automatically imagine a composite or PVC deck. It is only natural that many of our clients assume that decking is the only material that comes in low-maintenance because we design and build many stunning TimberTech, AZEK and Fiberon decks here at Archadeck of Columbus. However, many clients are pleasantly surprised when they learn about another low-maintenance option we specialize in; patios.
Paver patios in particular, are becoming more popular with Columbus homeowners who are looking for low maintenance, durability, and stability in their outdoor living space. In fact, more than 200 million square feet of pavers have been installed throughout North America.
Our patios are built with quality and beauty in mind for the long haul.
They require very little attention on the part of the homeowner aside from just maintaining them with common sense practices to ensure their aesthetics; i.e.keeping leaves blown off the patio, cleaning up mud where the dog tracked it from the yard on a rainy day, etc.
Our custom paver patios work well as part of an outdoor living space combination, with a deck or porch, around a pool of to highlight your landscaped beds. Patios serve as the perfect space to complete your backyard retreat. Paver patios, when properly installed, are as reliable and stable as concrete patios. They last just as long as concrete patios and with only minimal maintenance requirements trumping the time you spend laboring over the constant cleaning, staining and maintenance of a wooden deck.
We take our building process very seriously and do not cut corners when it comes to building paver patios or any other hardscape structure. Since patios don’t require maintenance as often as other structures, low-maintenance does not mean NO maintenance. In order to keep your patio and/or hardscape looking and performing its best, professionals do recommend intensive maintenance/patio restoration services and resealing every 2 -3 years. Along with patio design and installation, we also offer a patio restoration service here at Archadeck of Columbus. Our professional team has you covered from every angle!
Contact us today to design your one-of-a-kind patio or hardscape! We will create a space for you that delivers the epitome of outdoor living at its best. You can reach us at Call (740) 879 – 3730, or email us at westcolumbus@archadeck.net.
As part two of our 3-part series exploring top design trends, Archadeck of Columbus explores the top 16 trends in decks among homeowners in our region, and all across the country.
The deck of your dreams is just a phone call away at Archadeck of Columbus!
Archadeck of Columbus is in what many would call an enviable position. We have the opportunity to meet with homeowners around Columbus throughout the year and get to hear what they like, what they are looking for and what type of things they are contracting us to build in their backyards. As 2013 will soon be drawing to a close, we would like to share some of the trends we’re seeing on the front line.
As part two of this 3-part series exploring top design trends, Archadeck of Columbus explores the top 16 trends we’ve seen in our market.
Top 16…
#1) The use of roofed structures on top of decks – Currently, we are seeing a high demand for roofed structures on decks. Roofed outdoor structures include covered porches, screened porches and even 3- and 4-season rooms. The trend toward these covered structures indicates that homeowners are entertaining more and investing in their home’s living space more via the outdoor room. Having a roofed structure adds both shade and comfort to a deck space.
#2) Combination of a deck with other structures such as a patio or porch -The great part combining your deck with a porch or patio, is that it is the perfect add-on to give you those multiple outdoor living areas that you really want. A patio can be added with a new or existing deck at any time. Adding a patio to your deck is a great way to spice it up and put that spark back into your outdoor entertaining as well enhance the beauty in your backyard. Adding a porch will extend the function of your outdoor space and provide shade and shelter from inclement weather. If considering a screened porch and deck combination, you will also gain protection from hungry insects too!
TimberTech Evolutions Terrain is more affordable than other composites.
#3) The availability of more affordable composites for your deck – Up until recently, all high-quality composites came with a price tag to match. There has been a new addition to the composite line called TimberTech Terrain. Terrain is a wood and plastic capstock product that is similar in many ways to the popular Earthwood Evolutions line. The Terrain line features a thinner profile, similar to the TimberTech Reliaboard line, but with the same attributes that makes homeowner’s flock to the Earthwood Evolutions line at about 30% lower cost.
#4) More available decking board textures – New synthetic decking materials have a little more cleft in them which replicate more of a natural wood texture. Many decking companies are doing their best to make synthetics look far more like real wood than in years past.
#5) Contrasting color choices – Combining contrasting rails and decking add character and style to your deck. Even if you are considering a deck built with wood, you can stain your railing a different color to add contrast.
#6) The use of thin profile aluminum or cable railing – Thinner, lower profile railing will not impede visibility into your backyard or outdoor space.These include architectural rail such as Feeney Cable rail and many others. Not only will using less obtrusive railing open up the view, it gives your deck an upscale elegance with a contemporary feel. If using wooden decking, you can also get the same effect by using more upgraded pickets.
This deck was built using TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions- beautiful.
#7) Integrating different colors within the deck itself – Today’s decks aren’t always one color. Archadeck of Columbus is constantly asked to integrate additional colors into homeowners’ decks through picture framing and parting boards. Additional colors are sometimes used to highlight a specific part of the deck, such as a dining or living area. By adding colors you can also accentuate the dimensions of your deck. By thinking outside the box when using colors, you can turn your outdoor living space into a one-of-kind work of art!
#8) More use of exotic woods such as Ipe and other Brazilian hardwoods – There is a growing trend among homeowners choosing to build their deck with Brazilian hardwoods such as Ipe. Ipe is simply beautiful. Along with the rich wood tone and natural streaking that sets this exotic hardwood apart from all others, it is also strong – so strong in fact, holes need to be pre-drilled prior to installation. Ipe looks the part, and performs the part. It requires less maintenance than other hardwoods and when left untreated will weather to an elegant dove-gray over time.
#9) Deck lighting is a big trend – Lighting adds safety and ambiance to your deck. We install a huge amount of LED lighting into deck risers and posts, rail posts and even integrate lighting into the floor of the deck. Deck lighting will extend the function of your deck into the evening hours and give your space a romantic feel that invites you to linger a while longer.
#10) Stairs – Stairs are now wider and more decorative than the minimum code of 3 feet. We also design stairs that are more aesthetically interesting like flared stairs or landing with integrated seating. The reason behind this is because homeowners want wider stairs to create more seating options. It also helps balance larger and more elaborate deck designs.
2nd story deck in Delaware County, OH with finished under deck space.
#11) Multiple stairs for traffic flow – Archadeck of Columbus thinks about the flow of your entire backyard, not just the simplest way to get from here to there. We place heavy consideration on exactly where your stairs should be placed to offer the most benefit, and many times we integrate more than one set of stairs to add function and harmony to your space.
#12) Under deck systems for elevated decks – More and more, homeowners are looking to utilize the “under deck” so their elevated decks become viable outdoor living spaces. By implementing an under deck rainwater carrying system such as Dry Snap, or outdoor ceiling systems like Inside Out into an elevated or 2nd story deck, you can create a under deck space that functions like a covered porch or patio.
#13) Balusters – Options for balusters are huge! In terms of distinction and design, balusters come with a myriad of design options. These include balusters topped with decorative finials, arches, baroque styles and even integrated lighting with the baluster itself Archadeck of Columbus uses a lot of Deckorators balusters because they are a high-quality product that offers many options to the homeowner.
#14) Lattice is out – and so is skirting – Skirting is sometimes requested, but we do not recommend it because it takes away from the view and surrounding landscaping. In addition, a skirted portion of your under deck space can inadvertently become the perfect spot for wildlife.
This wide set of stairs allows for easy traffic flow between the deck and patio. The stairs also include riser lights for visibility in the evening.
#15) We foresee the trend towards more electrical considerations – Homeowners are now asking for some hardwired plugs within their new deck. These outlets are installed for varied purposes including plugging in space heaters, laptop computers and even to operate holiday lighting along their deck railings. As technology advances, so does the increase in varied places available to utilize those technologies, including outdoor spaces.
#16) Gorgeous outdoor furnishings and accessories – Even though we don’t build it, we would be remiss at not mentioning the benefit eye-catching furnishings and accoutrements add to your completed outdoor living space. Just like the suit is said to make the man, outdoor furniture makes the deck. Finishing out your space with comfy couches and chairs featuring oversized pillows is hugely popular, as is using pillows and cushions covered with weather resistant Sunbrella fabrics. Many of today’s contemporary outdoor furniture designs also use streamlined design with deeper seating with less of an emphasis on a slender leg. Stacked resin furniture is wildly popular right now. The trend we see throughout outdoor furniture design is taking the comfort and easy feel of your living room into the exterior. Homeowner’s are leaning toward outdoor furniture that mimics the comfort and loftiness of their favorite couch or easy chair but with low-maintenance outdoor fabric choices.
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
If you are starting to think about adding a new outdoor space to your Columbus area home, give Archadeck of Columbus a call for a free consultation. We can help you plan and design an outdoor space that suits your individual function with a cutting edge deck, patio or porch addition.
(740) 879 – 3730 westcolumbus@archadeck.net
Take a look at our extensive deck photo galleries by visiting our website today!
Archadeck of Columbus delivers the forecast in what is hot in outdoor living trends for this Spring. Deck and patio combinations, as well as porch and patio combinations seem to be at the top of the list.
This photo shows how each of the structures,the custom deck, screened porch and patio by Archadeck of Columbus work together as one.
We are really excited about the outdoor living season this year. We recently took part in two fantastic home shows in the area and got tons of ideas on the outdoor living trends for this Spring. While at the show we had a great deal of interest in not only decks, but also adding a patio to your deck. The trend we see is that Columbus area homeowners are requesting the addition of a patio to go with their new AND existing decks and porches. It stands to reason that even when it comes to outdoor living structures the hot new idea is to double the fun.
The great part about adding a hardscape, such as a patio, to your deck or porch is that it is the perfect add-on to give you those multiple outdoor living areas that you really want. A patio can be added with a new, or existing, deck or porch at anytime. Adding a patio to your deck is a great way to spice it up and put that spark back into your outdoor entertaining as well enhance the beauty in your backyard.
Wouldn’t it be great to have your deck serve as your outdoor cooking or gathering location and have a beautiful patio adjacent to use for dining and conversation? Or even a deck that leads into a covered hardscape patio with a fully functional outdoor kitchen? The entertaining opportunities that open up to you when you think about a dual structure such as a deck and patio combination are endless. Having multiple living areas within your outdoor design can offer more room and expand the functionality of your design. We can design a project for you that will turn your backyard until the ultimate backyard oasis.
Synthetic Deck with Hot Tub and Paver Patio
Archadeck of Columbus also offers “phased building”. This means we can plan upgrades or additions to your current project to accommodate for later additions or enhancements. For instance, if you really want a deck for this season, but foresee the future facilitating a patio and deck combination, we can make all the necessary adjustments in advance so when your budget allows you to add the patio a little later the structural necessities needed to make the transition run smoothly are already put into place.
Contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn more about our deck/patio and porch/patio combinations, and to learn more about our phased building program. We are now scheduling projects for the Spring season to have the backyard of your dreams in time for warmer weather, don’t delay. (740) 879 – 3730 westcolumbus@archadeck.net
Archadeck of Columbus just completed a backyard transformation in Vinmar Farms, a neighborhood located in Galena, Ohio. When we originally met with the homeowners they had recently purchased the home and their existing outdoor living space consisted of only an 8x 10 builder grade deck. Not only was the deck small it created a boxed in feeling of not being able to turn around in the space, and it offered no access to the backyard from the deck itself. In order to enter the backyard you had to do so from the main level of the home. Since the home included a walkout basement, not having access to the backyard from the deck was an issue they wanted to rectify.
When we met with the homeowners to discuss upgrading their outdoor living space there was another prerequisite we needed to address. Aside from all the reasons associated with the size, flow and functionality of the existing space. The homeowners, being caring dog owners, wanted a space that would give their beloved canines, and themselves, an open space to spend time outdoors together and separate.
The final design we came up with speaks to all their concerns through a new (much larger) low-maintenance deck, spacious Unilock patio and under-deck space that could provide a shady spot on those dog day afternoons. The entire space flows from one into another and offers access to the backyard AND walkout basement.
Columbus Decks, Porches and Patios by Archadeck of Columbus 