Turning a Rotting Deck into an Entertaining Hub

LOCATION: Brentwood Bay BC  |  TYPE: Deck & Patio | COMPLETED: 2013 | CLIENT: Private Residence | Budget: $25,000

A lush backyard features a patio with black outdoor dining furniture and chairs, creating an inviting entertaining hub shaded by a large tree. The tree is surrounded by a landscaped garden bed with small green plants and ornamental grass.

Introduction

Ray and Heather’s existing wooden deck had seen better days. The rotting boards were a safety concern, and the layout couldn’t accommodate a dining table with enough chairs for hosting friends and family. They wanted a more functional, inviting space—one that would let them comfortably gather outdoors and enjoy their yard.

A grassy backyard with a few leafless trees, a wooden deck featuring white patio chairs and a barbecue grill, creates an inviting entertaining hub beside a beige house partially visible in the background.

What They Wanted

  • A safe, durable replacement for the aging deck.
  • Enough room on the patio to seat four to six people comfortably for meals and socializing.
  • A seamless transition between the house and the backyard, with a design that suited their home’s style.

Challenges:

  • Rotten Deck Boards: The existing wood was past the point of repair.
  • Limited Space for Entertaining: The deck wasn’t large enough to hold a proper dining set.
  • Rocky Terrain & Tight Access: The property sits on shallow soil above bedrock, with a steep approach for delivering materials.
Outdoor patio with a black table and chairs next to a lush garden—an inviting entertaining hub where sunlight filters through the leaves, making this deck transformation perfect for relaxing or hosting friends under the shaded trees.

The Solution:

When Ray and Heather reached out, we developed a two-part plan to both reduce and replace the deck, and expand the patio:

  1. Custom Deck Footing & Smaller Deck Footprint

    • Poured a concrete wall to ensure the new deck remained sturdy and above grade.
    • Created a tighter, more manageable deck area that still connects seamlessly to the home.

  2. Spacious Patio Expansion

    • Built a larger patio capable of accommodating a dining table and chairs for six.
    • Used road base and sand delivered by a slinger truck to navigate the steep slope.

  3. Landscaping & Irrigation Updates

    • Incorporated low-maintenance plants suitable for rocky terrain.
    • Installed a new irrigation manifold, updated sprinklers, and a modern timer for efficient watering.
A patio with black chairs and a table sits beside a modern house, forming an inviting entertaining hub. Bordered by rocks and green plants, the bright outdoor space features grass, trees, and shrubs in the surrounding yard.

The Results:

  • Safe & Modern Outdoor Area: The rotting boards are gone, replaced by sturdy construction that meets their needs.
  • Ample Seating & Entertaining Space: The enlarged patio comfortably hosts family dinners and friend gatherings.
  • Seamless Aesthetic: The fresh design and plantings blend well with the surrounding environment while maximizing usable space.
  • Easy Maintenance: With updated irrigation and hardy plants, Ray and Heather can focus on enjoying their new space rather than maintaining it.

Ready to Create Your Own Private Retreat?

If you’re facing a challenging site or want to turn your backyard into a peaceful escape, we can help. Whether it’s designing a custom patio and deck, or transforming your outdoor space, our expertise in creating beautiful, functional landscapes will make your vision a reality.

Contact Us

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