Transforming a Backyard Obstacle Course into a Seamless Outdoor Living Space
This project was about much more than just laying boards; it was a complete backyard transformation that required careful logistics to keep the home functional during construction.
The Challenge
The backyard was originally cluttered with a rotten deck, an oversized flower garden, and various stone patios and walkways. To make matters more complex, this area served as the family’s primary entrance to their vehicles. I needed to clear the space and build a new, ground-level deck without ever cutting off their access to the back gate.
The Strategy
To keep the family moving safely, I approached the build in two distinct phases. I framed and finished the first half of the deck entirely before touching the second. This allowed the family to transition from the old path to the new finished deck while I worked on the remaining section. I even had to play a game of "shed Tetris," moving a large existing shed onto the first finished half of the deck to clear the way for the second phase of framing.
The Result
By removing significant amounts of clay and dirt to keep the deck at ground level, I created a single, seamless surface that spans the entire backyard. The family now enjoys a townhouse that feels twice as big, with a versatile space where the BBQ, tables, and chairs can be moved anywhere without restriction.