Illumination

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First Place

DeckRemodelers.com

Partners: Wolf Home Products, in-lite

Lighting was super important to the homeowner on this project. From the walkway lighting, step lighting, torches, landscape lighting, and more, this project is the epitome of Illumination.

A little about the project: Working within the existing footprint of a fully finished yard presented a unique design challenge—transforming the space without expanding its boundaries. The solution was a complete reimagining of the structure, integrating a roof, retractable Phantom screens, and a striking two-sided fireplace to create distinct zones for dining, cooking, and relaxation.

A wraparound outdoor kitchen—featuring Blaze appliances—anchors the design, with screens that lower around the kitchen for year-round use. Two custom rail-top bars, each crowned with Fire Garden Tempest torches, create dramatic focal points that bring warmth and movement to the space.

The deck’s structure was modified to elevate one side, improving flow and visual balance. Wing walls were introduced to support the screened areas, and the home’s rear façade was finished with dark Versatex and stone, unifying the overall aesthetic.

Blending transitional lines with rich textures and subtle lighting, this project demonstrates how thoughtful design and structural precision can completely redefine an existing space—without increasing its footprint.

Second Place

Northern Outdoor Living

Partner: Eva-Last

This deck project transforms light into an immersive art experience. The centerpiece is a fiber-optic system powered by a light engine that drives over 1,000 individual strands of light. Each strand had to be pre-drilled and threaded through the back of the wall. On the front side, the lights emerge inside a recessed shadow-box, covered with decorative PVC lattice. Hidden strip lighting illuminates the shadow box from within, allowing the twinkling fiber optics and the flowing strip lights to blend into a dynamic, motion-rich light display. Every color, every shimmer, and every sequence can be endlessly customized.

On that same wall, seven architectural wall fixtures project upward and downward beams. Each fixture is equipped with adjustable shutters, enabling the angles, widths, and intensity of the beams to be changed at will. Using both light and intentional darkness, the wall becomes a canvas—capable of nearly infinite, never-repeating light art.

Under every stair tread and picture-frame board, continuous strip lighting runs through a hidden network of
strategically placed trim channels. Finally, eclipse-style fixtures along the skirting illuminate a lower lounge space, controlled by a touch dimmer—perfect for reading, relaxing, or simply enjoying the art of illumination.

Third Place

Techwood Decks

This project is a complete backyard transformation designed to bring outdoor living to life — beautifully illuminated in every detail.

When the homeowner first approached us, the yard had potential but lacked warmth and function. Our vision went beyond pavers: we created a large, multi-level deck that connects all areas of the property, blending structure, nature, and light.

Lighting became the soul of this design. LED step lights highlight every level with a soft, elegant glow, while colored lights accent the plants and landscaping. The existing tree was illuminated to create a stunning focal point — adding that special touch that makes the space magical at night.

We also added round recessed lights directly into the decking boards, giving the deck a floating effect. The custom outdoor kitchen is fully illuminated, making it both functional and dramatic after dark.

During the day, the homeowners can relax and enjoy the open space — and when night falls, the party doesn’t have to stop.

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