Few materials can match the natural beauty of a newly installed wood deck and fence, which were a dramatic transformation for this small backyard patio. A paraffin treatment brings out the rich colors of ipe, a hardwood with a 30 year life expectancy. We gave the fence a contemporary twist by running the boards horizontally and varying the width, gradually thinning them as they go up. The bluestone pavers add a bit of contrast and visual interest on the patio floor. In order to save space, our clients asked us to build the planters into the fence itself, rather than resting any free-standing planters on the patio floor. This backyard is located in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood. See more garden design photos at www.amberfreda.com.

Peter Murdock
Example of a mid-sized trendy deck design in New York with no cover

This roof garden design in Manhattan's West Village features a custom-built wood deck with matching planters made out of ipe, a hardwood with a 30-year life expectancy. We used very thin wood planks on the planter facades for a very contemporary effect. We also planted bamboo on one side to provide some much needed privacy from a neighboring terrace. Read more about this garden on my blog, www.amberfreda.com.

Notice the deck skirting which improves the decks appearance as well as eliminates rodents from inhabiting underside of deck.
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary sunroom remodel in Other with a standard ceiling

Dan S
Inspiration for a large traditional full sun backyard mulch vegetable garden landscape in Denver.

Telescoping French doors were adding in the living room for easy indoor-outdoor access. Photo by Lee Manning Photography
Inspiration for a large timeless medium tone wood floor home office remodel in Los Angeles with white walls

©StevenPaulWhitsitt_Photography New deck - built to face into back garden with direct access to newly redesigned main floor living areas. Design & Construction by Cederberg Kitchens and Additions http://www.cederbergkitchens.com/

Mid-sized arts and crafts brick screened-in back porch photo in Richmond with a roof extension

Foyer - contemporary white floor foyer idea in Austin with white walls

Tim Kramer
Eclectic screened-in porch photo in Miami with a roof extension

Example of a trendy deck design in Dallas with a fire pit and no cover

Deck - transitional deck idea in Los Angeles with no cover

A stunning pool designed and installed by Steve Evans of Waterscapes lies just beyond the outdoor kitchen, screen porch and warehouse/gameroom. Beyond the pool is a red barn recently installed by homeowners. Photography by Mary Ann Elston, Pool by Steve Evans of Waterscapes.

Located in Highland Park, Texas just off the Katy Trail, is this outdoor patio project that took a stale, harsh exterior space and turned it into an inviting and private space for the owner to enjoy. The project featured custom planters, led lighting, privacy screen plantings, ipe wood deck and an outdoor fire pit with comfortable exterior furniture for relaxing and entertaining.

Jesse Goff Photography www.jessegoff.com
Example of a transitional balcony design in San Francisco with a roof extension

Example of a trendy pool design in Dallas

Peter Lyons
Great room - large 1950s medium tone wood floor and brown floor great room idea in San Francisco with white walls

One of our most popular outdoor designs. This space includes wrap around stairs that connects the deck to the screened porch underneath.
Inspiration for a large craftsman beige three-story wood exterior home remodel in Kansas City

Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary drought-tolerant and full sun backyard gravel landscaping in Chicago for fall.