Northern VA Outdoor Living Blog | Deckscapes of Virginia

Project Spotlight: Waterford Porch, Deck and Patio Retreat

Written by Josh Desilets | Oct. 21, 2024

Transforming a backyard into a dream outdoor oasis takes vision, craftsmanship, and a touch of magic. That's exactly what we created for this wonderful retired couple in Waterford, VA, who wanted to turn their blank slate of a backyard into something truly special. They came to us with a clear vision: a space that offered sun and rain protection, integrated elements that blend seamlessly with their home, and a cozy spot for gathering with family and friends. And what makes this story even better? They found us through a referral from a neighbor right on their street, proving once again that word of mouth is the best form of advertising. From the moment we met, it was clear this project would be a delightful journey of creativity, collaboration, and a few unexpected twists.

The Big Picture: Client Vision

When this couple decided it was time to create their ideal outdoor living space, they knew they wanted more than just a basic deck or patio. Their vision was to have an outdoor area serving multiple purposes year-round. They dreamed of an open porch where they could enjoy the sun without getting soaked in the rain, a stylish deck with a built-in rain system to keep the space below dry, and a welcoming patio with a fireplace for cozy evenings. Further, this upgrade could not appear as an afterthought; it needed to be an extension of their beloved home.

Design and Planning Challenges

One of the main challenges was incorporating a rain protection system under the deck, which would require careful planning and expert installation. Supply chain issues posed a significant challenge, particularly with the custom fireplace, which was delayed due to backorder. But rather than letting these challenges slow us down, we adapted our timeline to ensure our clients could enjoy their new space as soon as possible. We completed the porch, deck, and patio on schedule, leaving the fireplace installation for when it finally arrived.

Collaborative Process

The collaborative relationship we built with these homeowners made this project truly special. We remained open to new ideas and adjustments throughout the process, including adding a walkway connecting the deck steps to the driveway, enhancing accessibility and functionality. Our team worked closely with them every step of the way, making sure all their needs were met and their vision realized. 

Highlights of the Outdoor Living Space

Open Porch with Gable Roof

One of the standout features of this project is the open porch with a gable roof. This porch provides a perfect balance of sun and rain protection, allowing for enjoyment of the outdoors in any weather. The gable roof adds architectural interest to the home’s exterior, creating a sense of openness and airiness. We’ve included a ceiling fan in the covered area for comfort during cozy conversations. The client has fitted the adjacent area with a long dining table, perfect for transitioning between lounging and dining.

Curved Trex Deck

This innovative curved deck allows for the possibility of adding additional living space beneath the deck, such as a patio or storage area, maximizing the functionality of the entire backyard and showcasing the versatility of Trex decking. The design adds a unique and modern touch to the outdoor space, setting it apart from the standard straight-edged decks. Trex decking and railings provide a low-maintenance, slip-resistant surface perfect for outdoor use, combining safety with style. The integrated rain system beneath the deck is a clever addition, ensuring that the space below remains dry and usable regardless of the weather.

Large Patio with Fireplace

The patio area, featuring Unilock pavers, provides the perfect base for relaxing and gathering. The pavers were chosen for their durability and aesthetic appeal, offering a range of colors and textures. The patio's centerpiece is the custom-built fireplace with integrated wood storage. With its clean lines and quality materials, this stunning focal point with a brick herringbone accent blends seamlessly with the rest of the outdoor space.

Secluded Hot Tub Area

We created a cozy, covered area on the lower level. Tucked away under the deck, this secluded spot features a hot tub that provides a private retreat for the homeowners to unwind year-round, regardless of the weather. We’ve situated a stately staircase nearby to facilitate intuitive flow between these outdoor living zones. The hot tub placement ensures privacy and protection from the elements, making it a perfect place to relax after a long day.

Integrated Walkway

We added a walkway connecting the deck steps to the driveway during construction. This addition enhances the backyard's flow and accessibility and ties the different elements of the outdoor space together.

Materials and Features

This project showcases high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship, each chosen with expertise and care.

Trex Decking and Railings

Trex decking and railings offer a combination of beauty, durability, and low maintenance. Trex is an ideal choice for decking because it resists fading, staining, scratching, and mold, which means the deck will look beautiful for years with minimal upkeep. The Trex railings add an additional layer of safety without sacrificing style, featuring a clean, modern design that complements the curved deck.

Unilock Pavers and Fireplace

Durable Unilock pavers are known for their strength and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them perfect for outdoor use. They come in various textures and colors, allowing for a customized look that enhances the overall aesthetic of the outdoor space. The custom fireplace, also made from Unilock materials, provides a durable and visually appealing feature that ties the patio together.

Versatex PVC Trim

We used clean white Versatex PVC trim throughout the project to add a polished and cohesive finish to the porch and other structures. This material is resistant to moisture, insects, and decay, making it an excellent choice for outdoor use. Versatex trim adds a refined touch to the outdoor space, enhancing its visual appeal while ensuring long-lasting durability.

Client Testimonial and Experience

Nothing speaks to the success of a project quite like hearing directly from the clients themselves. Hear directly from our clients and treat yourself to a virtual walkthrough complete with sweeping aerial views. They loved how the new outdoor space seamlessly integrated with their home, feeling like it had always been there rather than an addition.

The homeowners were particularly pleased with our professionalism and craftsmanship. They appreciated how carefully the construction crew worked, always conscious of minimizing disruption to their daily lives and taking great care not to damage any part of the property. They also valued the team’s willingness to accommodate changes, no matter how late in the process, and their attention to detail in ensuring every element of the project was executed perfectly.

Their testimonial says it all: “The teams that came out to do the construction were fabulous. They were very conscious and considerate about the property, and we’re really appreciative of that. The attention to detail was just fabulous—a great experience all the way around.”

Deckscapes of Virginia is Ready to Design and Build Your Backyard Paradise

Deckscapes of Virginia creates beautiful, functional outdoor spaces that seamlessly integrate with your home and lifestyle. Whether you're looking to build a new deck, add a patio, or completely transform your backyard, our team of experts is here to help you bring your vision to life.

Are you ready to turn your backyard into the outdoor living space of your dreams? Contact Deckscapes of Virginia today to schedule a consultation and let us help you create a beautiful, safe, and functional outdoor environment that you'll enjoy for years to come.