Patio of the Week: Raised Deck for Enjoying a Tranquil Creek
A Texas couple now enjoy a multifunctional backyard that takes advantage of the natural beauty of their property
Scott and DeDe Vehslage’s split-level brick home in a suburb of Dallas sits on a lot that includes a tranquil creek running along the back of the property. But the couple, who have four adult children, were frustrated that their existing two-level wood deck felt closed off from the creek and the natural beauty of their scenic location. The aging deck and its boxy shape also had some structural issues that needed to be addressed.
The couple worked with deck designer Jamie Turrentine of Southwest Fence & Deck and now enjoy a multifunctional backyard with an updated two-level deck that better embraces the natural curves and views of the property. It offers spaces for entertaining, sharing meals outdoors and just relaxing amid the special scenery.
The couple worked with deck designer Jamie Turrentine of Southwest Fence & Deck and now enjoy a multifunctional backyard with an updated two-level deck that better embraces the natural curves and views of the property. It offers spaces for entertaining, sharing meals outdoors and just relaxing amid the special scenery.
This wider view shows the modern design of the main deck and its curved metal rails. These sleek rails provide safety and help define the space while still allowing views of the creek.
The black concrete planters seen on the deck in this photo feature an automated drip irrigation system that helps ensure the plants stay healthy and properly watered.
The black concrete planters seen on the deck in this photo feature an automated drip irrigation system that helps ensure the plants stay healthy and properly watered.
This view from the grill area shows the new lower deck on the right side of this photo, an adjoining lawn area with lounge chairs and the lovely views of the tranquil creek and its rock bottom. “This was designed so you can see the creek and take advantage of the natural feel of the property,” Turrentine says. “The lot itself is breathtaking.”
After: The new lower deck, accessed from the upper deck by stone steps, was made from the same PVC decking material as the upper deck. “This deck right there allows you to observe and experience the creek even more than the upstairs deck does,” Turrentine says.
An attractive tiered 8-foot cedar board-on-board fence replaced the old wood fence. The modern fence gives the updated backyard a cozy feel while also providing privacy from neighbors.
An attractive tiered 8-foot cedar board-on-board fence replaced the old wood fence. The modern fence gives the updated backyard a cozy feel while also providing privacy from neighbors.
After: This look from above at the lower deck highlights the curves of the updated deck and how it integrates with the existing and new vegetation.
A path with stepping stones leads from this lower deck down to a separate stone patio with a fire pit and lounge chairs. The existing retaining wall seen on the left side of this photo was integrated into the new design. “I’m very big on the repurposing part, and figuring out focal points and what you should be bringing attention to and what you don’t want to see,” Turrentine says.
A path with stepping stones leads from this lower deck down to a separate stone patio with a fire pit and lounge chairs. The existing retaining wall seen on the left side of this photo was integrated into the new design. “I’m very big on the repurposing part, and figuring out focal points and what you should be bringing attention to and what you don’t want to see,” Turrentine says.
This photo shows how the design team used metal posts and beams to keep the foundation of the new deck open to promote ventilation and preserve as much natural vegetation as possible.
New plants, rocks and boulders were added to the creek to enhance the look.
New plants, rocks and boulders were added to the creek to enhance the look.
Plans to adjust a nonworking waterfall and possibly add a pool are on the couple’s backyard to-do list for the future. For now, Scott and DeDe can enjoy a glass of wine, do yoga or entertain while enjoying the beautiful creek views from their updated backyard.
“We have been out of town and come home just to be on the deck,” DeDe says. “It has added living space, and you can see so much more from the deck now. It’s our new spot.”
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“We have been out of town and come home just to be on the deck,” DeDe says. “It has added living space, and you can see so much more from the deck now. It’s our new spot.”
More on Houzz
See more Patios of the Week
Get patio design ideas
Find a deck or patio builder near you
Shop for outdoor products
Deck at a Glance
Who lives here: Scott and DeDe Vehslage and their dog, Tucker
Location: Richardson, Texas
Size: About 2,600 square feet (242 square meters)
Designers: Jamie Turrentine of Southwest Fence & Deck (deck design) and Kevin Emery of Design Out (landscape design)
Scott and Dede relax with their dog, Tucker, on their new main deck, which can be accessed from their kitchen and living room. The decks, which replaced the old ones and are in a different design, are made from a PVC decking material that is laser engraved for color, depth and durability. The decks are also designed for temperature control. “Here in Texas when we have 100 degree days, we don’t need the deck to be 120,” Turrentine says.
The deck requires little maintenance and has a gray aged look that helps it blend with the home. “To put something in there that looks brand new would take away from the look of the property,” Turrentine says.
As many existing trees as possible were incorporated into the new backyard design. Landscape designer Kevin Emery of Design Out added string lights to the trees that help the space glow at night. “By cutting down one of the smaller unhealthy trees, it allowed the new ones to grow and they’re huge, so there’s now a shaded area that wasn’t there before,” DeDe says. “It created an umbrella.”
This photo also shows the couple’s grill area with a gas grill and separate smoker that allows them to prepare leisurely outdoor meals for family and friends.
Decking: Zuri
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