Our most recent upcoming projects mark the shape of things to come for two Columbus area backyards

Archadeck of Columbus is thrilled to give you the chance to preview two upcoming outdoor living space projects. Both projects are outdoor living space combinations that integrate various functions into singular multi-faceted designs

Dublin OH TimberTech deck and open porch by Archadeck of Columbus
A peek into our upcoming outdoor living combination project in Dublin, OH.

Archadeck of Columbus is thrilled to give you the chance to preview two upcoming outdoor living projects we’re building in the Columbus area. Both projects are outdoor living space combinations that integrate various structures into singular, multifaceted designs. These projects serve as a great example of the unique qualities homeowners here in the Columbus area have a taste for. Take a peek at the shape of things to come in these Columbus area backyards…

Large, open, and worthy of lots of outdoor living

Our first upcoming project preview is located in Dublin, OH very close to the zoo. These homeowners had no existing outdoor living space and contacted Archadeck of Columbus to create a low-maintenance deck and covered porch to enliven their backyard enjoyment. The design includes a multi-level deck, open porch and extensive hardscape skirting.

Dublin, OH deck and open porch plan.
Dublin, OH deck and open porch plan.

This large multi-level deck is being built with low-maintenance TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions Terrain decking in Brown Oak. The stair treads and rail cap will be built using TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions in Tropical Walnut. The two neutral shades play off one another and add visual interest to the decking components in this project. Tan vinyl railings with round powder coated black balusters will finish off the details of this elegant deck which steps out on three different sides to lower levels. The deck itself encompasses an area of 1440 square feet. The large deck balances the long rectangular porch that will set in the middle of the space within its own level.

Dublin OH TimberTech Terrain deck in brown oak
This deck and open porch combination promises pure outdoor living bliss!

The open porch adds an air of charm to the outdoor living combination because it is reminiscent of the classic design of porches from another era. The porch is placed around the home’s existing bay window and will look original to the home once completed. The placement and design details make the porch appear as if it has always been there. The porch will have pressure treated pine rafters all wrapped in cedar. The six columns included in the design will have a recessed panel on the columns with each having skirts and collars. The ceiling will be finished in ply bead to further the country feel of the space. Finishing up the porch will be two ceiling fans, four down lights and for added enjoyment the interior will have speakers wired to all four corners. Adding sound to this already stunning outdoor oasis will enhance entertaining opportunities for these Dublin homeowners.

Since this backyard has a large amount of slope, the skirting including on this project is dramatic. At the lowest point the structure sits 6″ above ground and spans to 5′ in some parts. The skirting is being completed using cultured stone to match the front of the home. The cultured stone runs the entire perimeter of the backyard structure and encompasses 140 linear feet.

Here is a first look at this Arlington, OH outdoor living combination.
Here is a first look at this Arlington, OH outdoor living combination.

From weathered wood to stunning Ipe Brazilian hardwood

Our second upcoming project takes us to Upper Arlington, OH where the homeowners have a very old existing cedar deck that is just one step off of the ground. When the homeowner’s contacted us, their existing outdoor living space did not do the home or the surrounding landscape justice. Many times with aging decks of this nature, where time and weather have taken their toll, it is better to just clear the area and begin afresh. That is exactly what Archadeck of Columbus has in mind.

This image shows the space before we begin the project.
This image shows the space before we begin the project.

We are starting this backyard transformation by removing the old deck and railroad ties to make way for an Ipe deck and large pergola which connects the home to the deck space by way of a stunning natural Bluestone patio. The space will include an Ipe Brazilian hardwood deck which is covered with a large cedar pergola. The pergola is designed to include large structural elements including large beams and joists. The use of larger elements will give the pergola a “beefier” feel a really make a design statement as part of this outdoor living combination. From the deck we are building limestone walls that lead to the rear door of the existing home. The limestone walls are to be 6-inches wide and will harmonize beautifully with the wood used in the deck and pergola. Natural stone compliments wood when used together, and creates a space full of rustic natural elements.  As part of this project we will have to contend with some existing irrigation and electrical which will require retro-fitting a lot of new wiring and irrigation lines.

Upcoming Arlington OH Outdoor living combo
Upcoming Arlington,OH outdoor living combination.

As you can see, the shape of things to come is an outdoor space that combines multiple functions with multiple elements. Designing the perfect outdoor space for you and staying on top of outdoor living and design trends is our business. We are seeing an increase in the number of combination projects Columbus area homeowners are seeking such as deck/porch combinations and deck/patio and pergola combination. Clients who build combination projects want to create an outdoor space that fits all their needs, and allows the effortless flow from one structure into another to offer maximum enjoyment in their backyards.

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

To learn more about our outdoor combination designs, including the design details that helps bring it all to life, contact Archadeck of Columbus today. Call for a free consultation: (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net

See more multifaceted outdoor combination structures by visiting our many photo galleries, located on our website. There are so many wonderful and functional combinations it will be hard for you to choose!

Choose the right hue for your Columbus deck and create a fabulous outdoor space

Archadeck of Columbus explores the design and color trends in synthetic decking for 2013, what’s hot, what’s not and the importance of choosing the right decking material and color to express your style.

TimberTech XLM Harvest Bronze deck with TimberTech Radiance Rail Columbus
Choosing the right color for your new synthetic deck can be a daunting task, we can help.

Choosing the right color for your new synthetic deck can be a daunting task. Colors in general are a very personal detail of any project. In most cases homeowners will make their color selections based on complimenting the deck color to that of  their home or contrasting with their home. Each of these approaches to choosing a color for your deck can be quite powerful, but therein is where the problem can lie; choosing the right hue even when dealing with neutrals can open up a wide spectrum of choices. Too many choices can lead to confusion and uncertainty. Nowadays, brown is more than just a singular shade. There are a wide range of browns that start from light to dark and everything in between. With synthetic decking, there may be a dozen natural tone options.

If you can’t match the color of your new deck perfectly to the color of your home, don’t fret. Most houses have basic colorations of brown, gray or white, whether these colors are part of the hues in your masonry or whether they are the colors of your siding or trim. If your home has white siding for example, white is the perfect companion to any color you choose for your synthetic decking.

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This deck was completed in Walnut from the TimberTech Earthwoods Evolution line of decking.

Even though the New Year has just begun, we have already seen new color trends emerge from some of the top synthetic decking manufacturers. We work closely with these companies to keep homeowners “in the know” about what is new, what is popular and what we foresee as being hot for 2013. Some of the up and coming colors are brown hues, which also include streaked colors that give the decking a more exotic feel closer to the look of natural hardwoods. With brownish tones, there are numerous choices such as light browns and dark browns that mimic the look of Walnut which is really popular right now. Walnut in the TimberTech Earthwood Evolutions line is highly requested among our customers, as well as Walnut Grove which is a TimberTech XLM color. The only drawback to using a dark brown is that they indeed show dirt more easily than a lighter brown, much like a dark colored car seems to get dusty more often. Dark colors also retain more heat and are hotter to the touch. If the orientation of your deck receives a great deal of sun, this is an important consideration. Along with the many browns, there are also a lot of grays, and even reddish hues that resemble rust or terra-cotta tones. These hues are not requested as often as earth tones.

Azek Brownstone colored multi-level deck with Gazebo and Vinyl Rails, Reynoldsburg, OH, Columbus, OH
This multi-level deck and gazebo finished in AZEK Brownstone with vinyl rails.

AZEK synthetic decking also has a myriad of beautiful hues to choose from when considering color selections. One of their most popular colors is Acacia which is part of their beautiful Brownstone collection. Acacia is a darker brown with all the undulation and streaking that closely matches natural wood. Another great color by AZEK is Brownstone from their Harvest collection. Brownstone incorporates the best of both worlds by covering the realm of both gray and brown in this color. It makes a fabulous choice for contrast and complimentary color selections.

If you really are set on exactly matching your deck to the color of your home, you may consider choosing an all wood product as opposed to a synthetic deck. With wood, you can match it easily to any color by simply applying stain. Wood is also a less expensive investment to make when compared to synthetics. If you do however choose an exotic hardwood such as Ipe, then it is likely the price point will be about the same as synthetic. Exotic hardwoods have a lot of character including wood graining which resembles the graining and details of an interior walnut hardwood floor. These woods are dense and require more labor, which can be more expensive, because the holes have to be pre-drilled prior to installation.

 ipe-deck-archadeck-of-columbus
Ipe exotic hardwood deck in Columbus, OH.

All wood has to be stained or sealed. It’s never a good idea to paint a deck. Painting a deck can result in bubbling and it will also peel off very quickly, just imagine what our interior walls would look like if we walked on them?!  We urge you to have your outdoor living structure professional steer you in the right direction to make the most informed decision on choosing your deck’s color. Remember, if you find a color you like there are always ways to bring your home’s color into your space. Whether you apply your home’s color to vertical accessories or by matching your house or house trim, there is always a fabulous way to pull it all together.

If you are ready to turn your backyard into a design masterpiece this year, contact Archadeck of Columbus to learn how.We can turn your outdoor space into a thing of beauty and joy. Call for a free consultation today (740) 879 – 3730 westcolumbus@archadeck.net

Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus
Michael Reeder, Archadeck of Columbus

You can see great examples of the magic of color by visiting our composite and PVC deck gallery, and our wood deck gallery, located on our website.