San Rafael Overview: This garden project began with the demolition of an existing pool and decks cantilevered over a hillside. The garden was originally a Japanese-themed garden retreat and free-form shaped pool. While the client wanted to update and replace many elements, they sought to keep the free-form characteristics of the existing design and repurpose existing materials. BK Landscape Design created a new garden with revetment walls and steps to a succulent garden with salvaged boulders from the pool and pool coping. We built a colored concrete path to access a new wood trellis constructed on the center-line view from the master bedroom. A combination of Bay friendly, native and evergreen plantings were chosen for the planting palette. The overhaul of the yard included low-voltage lighting and minimal drainage. A new wood deck replaced the existing one at the entrance as well as a deck off of the master bedroom that was also constructed from repurposed materials. The style mimics the architectural detail of the mansard roof and simple horizontal wood siding of the house. After removing a juniper (as required by the San Rafael Fire Department within the Wildland-Urban interface) we designed and developed a full front-yard planting plan. All plants are Bay-Friendly, native, and irrigated with a more efficient in-line drip irrigation system to minimize water use. Low-voltage lighting and minimal drainage were also part of the overhaul of the front yard redesign.

Outdoor dining and seating areas are oriented to maximize bay views.
Trendy rooftop rooftop deck photo in San Francisco with a fire pit and a pergola

Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary backyard deck remodel in Detroit with no cover

Ray Strawbridge Commercial Photography
Example of a large classic backyard deck design in Raleigh with no cover

Steel Cable Railing Kit installed by the owner of this beautiful mountain home. Black railing posts provide contrast with redwood decking, and stainless steel cable infill provides a safe and transparent barrier for safety on this raised hillside deck. www.sandiegocablerailings.com Photo--Christophe Interiors Inc.

Inspiration for a contemporary deck remodel in San Francisco

Astonishingly beautiful setting and deck for the best in outdoor living.
Inspiration for a contemporary second story glass railing deck remodel in San Francisco with a fire pit and no cover

Trendy second story cable railing deck photo in San Francisco with no cover

Master bedroom deck, overlooking yoga terrace. Photographer: Matthew Millman
Inspiration for a contemporary balcony remodel in San Francisco with a roof extension

Photo of a contemporary rock hillside river rock landscaping in San Luis Obispo.

Deck - contemporary deck idea in San Francisco with no cover

Minimalist deck photo in Los Angeles

Redwood deck with grey stain on hill with glass railing and redwood posts.
This is an example of a large contemporary full sun backyard landscaping in Los Angeles with decking for summer.

Staircase - modern staircase idea in Los Angeles

Redwood deck with grey stain on hill with glass railing and redwood posts.
Photo of a large contemporary full sun backyard landscaping in Los Angeles with decking for summer.

Redwood deck with grey stain on hill with glass railing and redwood posts.
This is an example of a large contemporary full sun backyard landscaping in Los Angeles with decking for summer.

Photography by Steve Knetig ©2013
Inspiration for a rustic deck remodel in Austin

Deck - mid-sized contemporary backyard deck idea in Detroit with no cover

Steve Lerum
Design ideas for a contemporary full sun garden path in Orange County with decking.