Originally designed by one of the most notable landscape architects in town, this once impressive project had faltered in recent years. The pool and spa still functioned well, and the client wanted to keep it intact. In addition, they wanted to keep as much of the existing landscaping as possible. The surrounding decks, walls, and steps were fair game. At first glance, one might think that our changes were simple material changes. Upon closer inspection, however, one can see the subtle, yet transformative changes that come together to update this classic pool in a tasteful, timeless manner, and improve the flow and usability of the deck areas, while softening the feel of the massive hardscape. The subtle changes begin as soon as you walk out the back door of the house. The existing decking had a lot of what we call “tweeners”; areas that are overly generous walkways, yet not large enough to house furniture. The awkwardly small bluestone patio was expanded to accommodate a generous seating area, by pushing the step-down closer to the pool. Our talented stone mason carefully married the new bluestone into the existing, resulting in an imperceptible difference between the two. As you descend the new bluestone steps to the pool level, your bare feet will be thankful for the new smooth-finished limestone colored concrete, with a hand cut pattern carefully etched into its surface. The old red brick decking was so hot that the owners could not walk around the pool in bare feet. The brick coping was also replaced with an eased edge Pennsylvania Premier Stone which matches the new step treads throughout the project. Between the house and the pool, a large raised planter was reconfigured, giving additional space to the pool deck for a shaded lounge chair area. Across the pool, a bank of rather tall painted brick retaining walls were cut down, shortened, and moved. This lessened the visual impact of the walls, which were rather overwhelming in the space, as well as opening up a new seating area, nestled under the arms of the massive pecan at the back of the property. Rather than continuing solid decking around the entire pool, the area near these walls has been transformed to large stone stepper pads set in a sea of beautiful St. Augustine lawn. This creates a visually softened area that is still suited to setting tables and chairs when the guest list calls for additional seating. The spa area is quite possibly the most dramatic change on this project. Yet more raised planter walls divided this area into awkward spaces, unsuited to proper furniture placement. The planters were removed, new stone decks, once again expertly married into the existing, opening the area to house a large dining table and new built in bbq area. The spa itself was re-imagined with the bluestone coping, and painted brick veneer. The most impressive addition though is the new handmade glazed tiles that surround the existing cast stone water feature. This water feature was almost unnoticeable against the painted brick wall, but now the dramatic arch and pop of color draw the eye to this quaint little corner of the property.

Project designed and built by Atlanta Decking & Fence.
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This railing system offers safety without distracting from the view. Designed & built by Jim Odom at Archadeck Austin. Photo Credit: Kristian Alveo & TimberTown

This balcony deck features Envision Outdoor Living Products. The composite decking is Spiced Teak from the Distinction Collection.
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Photographer: Chris Bucher
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This sleek terrace, designed by Karen Garlanger Designs, LLC, features Fiberon Horizon composite decking in Ipe, and hidden fasteners. This small terrace makes a big impact with it's built-in seating, storage cabinet, and planter boxes. All of the components were built using the same material as the deck. The result is a cohesive, clean-lines look.

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arbors, trellis, pergolas, decking, custom wood structure, outdoor living space, outdoor seating, outdoor cook station
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AZEK Deck's Silver Oak has the aged look of teak with the rich personality of weathered wood. And, paired with white AZEK Premier Rail, it creates a warm and inviting space. All low maintenance, stain- and scratch-resistant AZEK Deck products carry a limited lifetime warranty and are designed to last beautifully. Available in 17 colors and several grain textures, AZEK Deck has a color to complement any housing exterior allowing you to personalize your backyard experience. Consider topping off your AZEK Deck with a pergola made of AZEK Trim to create a gorgeous and completely low maintenance outdoor space.

Deck with stone veneer storage area underneath. Roof over deck for shade. Picture taken while under construction.
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Two level deck with upper and lower wood-burning fireplaces, built-in ceiling heaters and numerous skylights for lots of sun.
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Zuri Premium Decking in Weathered Gray
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The upper deck from the house connects the house to the pool and lounging area.
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The step lighting and LEDs around the perimeter allow the homeowners to enjoy their deck day or night. Designed & built by Jim Odom at Archadeck Austin. Photo Credit: Kristian Alveo & TimberTown

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