Search results for "Ground level deck" in Home Design Ideas
![Azek composite wood deck with brick columns in Homer Glen, Illinois](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/porches/azek-composite-wood-deck-with-brick-columns-in-homer-glen-illinois-millennium-construction-img~4da1225a000ea78a_1530-1-6bf04b8-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Millennium Construction](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/9d439d2a0dbc8cc3_2435-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
A family in the Chicago suburb of Homer Glen needed to replace an aging cedar deck that extended out from their home's second-floor kitchen and living room areas and that featured a stairway down into the backyard.
Seeking a new, more permanent structure, the family enlisted Millennium Construction's services. Using their desire to include brick columns as a starting point, we worked with them to select the right materials for the new deck — and to create a design that could bring their vision to life while improving the overall aesthetics and versatility of their outdoor space.
For the new deck's surface, we chose brownstone-colored AZEK® decking that complemented the home's siding. Unlike the wood deck it replaced, AZEK decking doesn't require staining every few years, and it doesn't absorb water or buckle as traditional composite woods can. Instead, its PVC boarding is nonabsorbent and stain- and scratch-resistant to provide a lifetime of virtually maintenance-free use with only infrequent washing.
Extending out from the second-floor deck, we built a stairway leading down to the backyard. At the bottom of the stairs, we opted for an open platform area instead of a simple stoop for a more open, inviting feel. This also created an additional outdoor leisure space at the ground level.
The brick columns built to support the deck were topped with iron post lamps to provide a classic look and a pleasing light source for evening recreation. To match the lamps, we installed a textured Fortress Iron Railing between the columns. Galvanized and coated for many years of maintenance-free use, the Fortress product supplies the traditional elegance of wrought iron, while also blocking outdoor views less than thicker railing materials like composite wood can.
We waterproofed the bottom of the deck using a Trex®RainEscape® deck drainage system. By providing complete protection of the area below the deck from rain, sun and other elements, the RainEscape system makes it possible to install ceiling fans, TVs, speakers and more in the outdoor living space below a deck without worry. We finished the deck bottom in wood paneling and then painted it. We hid the drainage pipe for the RainEscape system in the crown molding, which we ran to a gutter emptying out into the yard below the deck stairway.
In the shaded area underneath the deck, we installed two ceiling fans for a cooling effect. We also put in recessed ceiling lights and connections for a flat screen and speakers so the family could watch television and listen to music anytime in a relaxed outdoor setting. After brick pavers laid the patio floor, we screened the area in, placing French doors at each end of the screen room. At six feet wide, the doors retain easy access into the house for furniture and other large items.
While the family opted not to install windows in the screen room, the framing system we used also gives them the flexibility to enclose the space fully from the elements with four-track windows should they wish to do so in the future.
With the new deck and screen room, the family now enjoys a more attractive upstairs area off the living room and kitchen areas where they can grill, entertain and bask in the sun on pleasant days. The screened-in area below gives them the ability to remain outdoors when it's hot or rainy, or when they want to watch their favorite shows. The end result is a house with a more refined look — and a family with a variety of new ways to enjoy the outdoors from the comfort of home.
![Trex Composite Decking.](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/decks/trex-composite-decking-american-deck-and-patio-img~bb61811b0f467c66_0459-1-acd70e9-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![American Deck and Patio](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/e8d3b0cc0f3a7b68_8076-w32-h32-b1-p10--.jpg)
Built in Winchester, VA for the Trex Company. Low level deck allows for alternate design elements such as wide cascading steps, planter boxes, and custom benches. Notice use of mutiple material colors.
![Contemporary Backyard Retreat](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/decks/atlanta-backyard-retreat-boyce-design-and-contracting-img~051117100c3659e0_6100-1-db3bc13-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Boyce Design + Build](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/bdd3832701237394_5572-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
The upper level of this gorgeous Trex deck is the central entertaining and dining space and includes a beautiful concrete fire table and a custom cedar bench that floats over the deck. Light brown custom cedar screen walls provide privacy along the landscaped terrace and compliment the warm hues of the decking. Clean, modern light fixtures are also present in the deck steps, along the deck perimeter, and throughout the landscape making the space well-defined in the evening as well as the daytime.
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![Rectangular](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/pools/rectangular-lewis-aquatech-img~4331bc4c0e16fe00_8798-1-fc0eda3-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Lewis Aquatech](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/f24384230e16f48e_7246-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
Traditional rectangular pool with beautiful landscaping.
Inspiration for a timeless rectangular pool remodel in DC Metro
Inspiration for a timeless rectangular pool remodel in DC Metro
![Multi-Level Radius Deck With Pergola](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/08316a2d032b4e70_1942-w360-h360-b0-p0--.jpg)
![Advanced Deck Builders of Madison](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/a253fc4f032b4991_2128-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
Elegant and modern multi-level deck designed for a secluded home in Madison, WI. Perfect for family functions or relaxing with friends, this deck captures everything that an outdoor living space should have. Advanced Deck Builders of Madison - the top rated decking company for the Madison, Wisconsin & surrounding areas.
![Fiberon](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/decks/fiberon-fiberon-decking-img~0d514b8a051b2234_3723-1-58124a2-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Fiberon Decking](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/9913311e013751ab_9532-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
This Tuscan inspired outdoor space features Fiberon composite decking in the 'Rosewood' color. Fiberon's Horizon line comes in 5 colors; each are multi-chromatic, with realistic streaking and grain patterns which emulate the look of real wood, minus the upkeep. Fiberon composites offer easy outdoor living, and great looks that last.
![Lexington, MA screen porch and bi-level deck](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/decks/lexington-ma-screen-porch-and-bi-level-deck-archadeck-of-suburban-boston-img~5d41268901e8b064_4565-1-6bc8c29-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Archadeck of Suburban Boston](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/a703bc390177f3d5_0982-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
These Lexington MA homeowners can now explore endless entertaining options with a spacious deck and screened porch for dining and seating. The space is intimate enough for two but still large enough to handle a crowd!
![Breakers Beach House](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/exteriors/breakers-beach-house-noel-cross-architects-img~d6d1c3190ea4d518_8509-1-5f46b23-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Noel Cross+Architects](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/e163a4300e173e20_6600-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
Firmness . . .
Santa Cruz’s historically eclectic Pleasure Point neighborhood has been evolving in its own quirky way for almost a century, and many of its inhabitants seem to have been around just as long. They cling to the relaxed and funky seaside character of their beach community with an almost indignant provinciality. For both client and architect, neighborhood context became the singular focus of the design; to become the “poster child” for compatibility and sustainability. Dozens of photos were taken of the surrounding area as inspiration, with the goal of honoring the idiosyncratic, fine-grained character and informal scale of a neighborhood built over time.
A low, horizontal weathered ipe fence at the street keeps out surfer vans and neighborhood dogs, and a simple gate beckons visitors to stroll down the boardwalk which gently angles toward the front door. A rusted steel fire pit is the focus of this ground level courtyard, which is encircled by a curving cor-ten garden wall graced by a sweep of horse tail reeds and tufts of feather grass.
Extensive day-lighting throughout the home is achieved with high windows placed in all directions in all major rooms, resulting in an abundance of natural light throughout. The clients report having only to turning on lights at nightfall. Notable are the numerous passive solar design elements: careful attention to overhangs and shading devices at South- and West-facing glass to control heat gain, and passive ventilation via high windows in the tower elements, all are significant contributors to the structure’s energy efficiency.
Commodity . . .
Beautiful views of Monterey Bay and the lively local beach scene became the main drivers in plan and section. The upper floor was intentionally set back to preserve ocean views of the neighbor to the north. The surf obsessed clients wished to be able to see the “break” from their upper floor breakfast table perch, able to take a moment’s notice advantage of some killer waves. A tiny 4,500 s.f. lot and a desire to create a ground level courtyard for entertaining dictated the small footprint. A graceful curving cor-ten and stainless steel stair descends from the upper floor living areas, connecting them to a ground level “sanctuary”.
A small detached art studio/surfboard storage shack in the back yard fulfills functional requirements, and includes an outdoor shower for the post-surf hose down. Parking access off a back alley helps to preserve ground floor space, and allows in the southern sun on the view/courtyard side. A relaxed “bare foot beach house” feel is underscored by weathered oak floors, painted re-sawn wall finishes, and painted wood ceilings, which recall the cozy cabins that stood here at Breakers Beach for nearly a century.
Delight . . .
Commemorating the history of the property was a priority for the surfing couple. With that in mind, they created an artistic reproduction of the original sign that decorated the property for many decades as an homage to the “Cozy Cabins at Breakers Beach”, which now graces the foyer.
This casual assemblage of local vernacular architecture has been informed by the consistent scale and simple materials of nearby cottages, shacks, and bungalows. These influences were distilled down to a palette of board and batt, clapboard, and cedar shiplap, and synthesized with bolder forms that evoke images of nearby Capitola Wharf, beach lifeguard towers, and the client’s “surf shack” program requirements. The landscape design takes its cues from boardwalks, rusted steel fire rings, and native grasses, all of which firmly tie the building to its local beach community. The locals have embraced it as one of their own.
Architect - Noel Cross Architect
Landscape Architect - Christopher Yates
Interior Designer - Gina Viscusi-Elson
Lighting Designer - Vita Pehar Design
Contractor - The Conrado Company
![Decks](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/decks/decks-residential-decks-porches-patios-img~b781f3b404ce41d0_6321-1-7f0797e-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Residential Decks, Porches, Patios](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/0d53f5cc02e0020c_7744-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
Ground level Fiberon deck located in Emmitsburg MD includes Azek PVC fascia, Benches, circular paver patio with fire pit, low voltage lighting.
Mid-sized elegant backyard deck photo in Baltimore with a fire pit and no cover
Mid-sized elegant backyard deck photo in Baltimore with a fire pit and no cover
![Decks](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/decks/decks-american-deck-and-patio-img~c71120b4040f18b7_7311-1-57a6648-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![American Deck and Patio](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/e8d3b0cc0f3a7b68_8076-w32-h32-b1-p10--.jpg)
Craig Westerman
Example of a large classic backyard mixed material railing deck design in Baltimore
Example of a large classic backyard mixed material railing deck design in Baltimore
![Ipe Decking Spicer, MN](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/decks/ipe-decking-spicer-mn-trinity-construction-services-llc-img~be11ec6405f70485_8363-1-6813156-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Trinity Construction Services, LLC](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/0553d92200354ce8_0376-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
Inspiration for a large transitional backyard deck remodel in Minneapolis with no cover
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![Summit, NJ Ground Level Ipe Deck](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/decks/summit-nj-ground-level-ipe-deck-deck-pros-img~133172cb04f8d0b2_2000-1-974511a-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Deck Pros](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/84a3702f04f103bc_6711-w32-h32-b1-p10--.jpg)
This two level deck in Summit, NJ transitions to a pool and patio. The flooring is Ipe hardwood. The upper deck has a custom cedar bench.
Inspiration for a mid-sized timeless backyard deck remodel in New York
Inspiration for a mid-sized timeless backyard deck remodel in New York
![Archadeck Outdoor Living](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/patios/archadeck-outdoor-living-img~80013a710373f0f9_2521-1-828442f-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![archadeckoutdoorliving](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/3b53884a037d1ef7_8856-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
This wonderfully stunning backyard is a sight for sore eyes, as it seems to beckon “Welcome, please come on in.” At the rear of this outdoor living space is a step-up hot tub that easily holds a entire family of eight. The upper level deck is actually two decks in one. The upper tier – decked out with hardwood floor, columns and black metal rail posts, serves as an outdoor dining room, outdoor living room and outdoor kitchen. The lower tier is a rain deck, completely protected from weather elements above. A slate patio sets the stage for this all natural rock and boulder firepit.
![Multi-level Ipe Deck in Newton, NJ with built-in planters](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/decks/multi-level-ipe-deck-in-newton-nj-with-built-in-planters-deck-remodelers-com-img~61c1fe27059e96b8_1038-1-33de31b-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Deck Remodelers.com](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/2b8355cf0138a0b9_7297-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
Amazing multi-level deck in warm, rich ipe in Newton, NJ. The first level has large area for grilling and eating. Built-in planters at either end of the the stadium stairs leading to the second level, providing a more intimate cocktail area. The stunning 2 tiered pergola with box lattice provides all the privacy these homowners need to enjoy this luxurious outdoor living space.
![Multi Level Deck and Patio Creates a Seamless Flow Over in Towaco, NJ](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/patios/multi-level-deck-and-patio-creates-a-seamless-flow-over-in-towaco-nj-deck-remodelers-com-img~fa211adb061c010a_6880-1-6724e7f-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Deck Remodelers.com](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/2b8355cf0138a0b9_7297-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
The client wanted a deck to be connected to the rest of the yard and transition to the upper deck 10ft of grade to the patio on grade. The centrally located circular kitchen area services both the patio and the upper deck and gives lots of options whether it’s just the family or a party for 50. Minimizing rails and stairs during the transition from the upper deck to the lower deck on grade was critical to the clients. Adding the kitchen to the project without obstructing the view out the rear patio doors was also an important request from the client. The WOLF PVC Black Walnut accents and fascia really sets off the Driftwood field. Dutch Quality weathered ledge stone was used in the kitchen with a granite counter. Custom welded aluminum rails and EP Henry Bristol pavers are also featured. The built in flower beds extend the feel of the patio area and allow for plantings to be added. This project turned an unusable back yard and disconnected elevated deck into cohesive multi-level living space.
Showing Results for "Ground Level Deck"
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![Contemporary Decks](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/decks/contemporary-decks-decks-by-kiefer-llc-img~88f1ad06011aad89_4905-1-2fe4ba9-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Decks by Kiefer LLC](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/0f63264d011aaa36_5779-w32-h32-b1-p10--.jpg)
Elegant multi-level Ipe Deck features simple lines, built-in benches with an unobstructed view of terraced gardens and pool. (c) Decks by Kiefer ~ New jersey
![Patio and Multi-Level Deck](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/decks/patio-and-multi-level-deck-j-m-bryson-construction-management-img~04f1afe9090398ee_1935-1-c1dfd50-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![J. M. Bryson Construction Management Inc.](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/5b73be5d0faa69f3_0925-w32-h32-b0-p0--.jpg)
Upper and lower level deck
Large trendy backyard outdoor kitchen deck photo in Providence with no cover
Large trendy backyard outdoor kitchen deck photo in Providence with no cover
![Stylish Outdoor Living in Oakton, Virginia](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/pictures/exteriors/stylish-outdoor-living-in-oakton-virginia-michael-nash-design-build-and-homes-img~093101ec025e8ab0_2143-1-98eb60b-w360-h360-b0-p0.jpg)
![Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes](https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/c6a3306b02431d45_8286-w32-h32-b1-p10--.jpg)
2010 NATIONAL NARI REGIONAL AWARD WINNER
Project Scope
The owners of this 7,000 square foot colonial in Oakton, Virginia, were seeking a multi-level Mediterranean-style indoor/outdoor living space off the back of their home. They turned to Michael Nash Design, Build & Homes for a design solution that would include a stone patio, a second-story deck, a screened-in porch and linking staircases.
While the structure was designed primarily for family dining and entertaining, it also had to accommodate periodic social gatherings of one hundred guests or more. To meet these needs, the project would include a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen, several serving counters with permanent refrigeration, and well-delineated socializing and dining zones.
The existing home’s setting offered several impressive assets the new outdoor living area was designed to exploit. The sprawling acreage features old stand trees, wooded paths and a private lake. Beautifully landscaped, it unfolds as an idyllic panorama that naturally draws people to the outdoors.
Challenges
Since the rear elevation was situated on a slope that drops away from the house, the Michael Nash team had to raise the grade two feet within in a 2,000 square foot area extending out from the back of the house. Infrastructure plans also called for a sophisticated drainage system that had to accommodate a whole series of water “runoff” considerations to be integrated into the decking itself. Excavation included constructing retaining walls to bolster the elevated grade—which also had to support a concrete slab, the primary foundation for the entire complex.
Solutions
The ground level decking consists of a 2,000 square foot flagstone patio level with the home’s lower level doors. There is a decorative water fountain mid-patio—an ornate collectible acquired in Florida. Food preparation is concentrated within a specially designed semi-circular wall that creates an “outdoor kitchen” equipped with a 60” Viking barbecue grill, a prep sink, a warming drawer, refrigerator and appropriate storage. There is a granite surfaced dining counter with seating for eight.
Wrought iron railing and approximately 20 decorative columns (some encasing steel vertical supports) are incorporated into the design scheme. Many of the columns house accent lights.
The top level—supported by horizontal steel beams– is a 2,500 square foot deck constructed entirely of Trex decking. The open air decking is, again, directly accessible from rooms on the second level of the house including the kitchen, sunroom and family room.
The platform’s most prominent feature is a U-shaped “kitchenette” with cedar shake shingle roofing. Like its counterpart one level below, the facility is equipped with grill, refrigerator and stainless steel cabinetry.
One portion of the deck has been allocated for a 16’ x 16’ octagonal screened-in porch crowned by a pair of 2’ x 4’ skylights. The porch can be accessed from the home’s conservatory via a set of French doors. With its mosaic tile flooring, stained cedar panel ceiling and honed granite counters, the interior is elegant and calming. Hand-painted stenciling and a wall-mounted water feature provide distinctive detailing.
Finally, the design introduced elements to highlight and reinforce an awareness of the lovely bucolic setting. Fountains and water features combined with textured surfaces and mosaic tiling and backsplashes to present a villa-like ambiance well-suited to the Virginia countryside.
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