Framing Over $250k

This award-worthy 1600-square-foot multi-level deck redefined what’s possible on a hillside. Perched at a 45-degree angle with no backyard and no machinery access, every inch of this outdoor living space was built by hand—one shovel, one pickaxe, and hundreds of buckets of dirt at a time. More than 70 pin piles, a four-foot-high concrete retaining wall, and one-inch all-thread rods anchored deep into the hillside form the foundation of a structure designed to last forever. Engineering precision met raw determination as multiple geotechnical studies, core drilling, and permits ensured the deck could withstand the immense forces of Seattle’s rain-soaked slopes. The deck supports not only its framework of custom steel braces and beams spaced just 12 inches apart, but also a living lawn and a hot tub suspended 40 feet above the ground—capable of holding thousands of pounds of soil, water, and people. Integrated drainage and concealed electrical work complete the seamless design. Despite the tight terrain and punishing conditions, this project transformed an impossible slope into a breathtaking, enduring sanctuary—a masterpiece of craftsmanship, engineering, and vision.

This work of art used all 35 years of my deck building experience. The home was built on 14″ round wood piles driven to depth and the old deck was also built on the piles. The first of many challenges was that the original builder of the house framed the floor
right through the side of the home on to exterior beams and piles. The piles were still usable but showing signs of aging so we made certain to address and to protect the reused beams and piles so they would never see any more moisture. The key to a successful build is in the details.

Using aluminum framing materials proved to be a challenge as there are several curves involved in the feature section of this amazing deck. We had to create new ways to apply our standard methods to a new wave of exterior products to create something amazing that I’ve never seen before- A compound curved, tilt back bench. I used all 25 years of my deck board bending experience to create a one off work of art.

Transforming this forever home was a remarkable collaboration between the homeowners and our team. The family envisioned their final and lasting build centered around a durable steel framed deck that would stand the test of time. To honor that vision, we extended the steel structure to include steel framing in the walls of each outdoor feature, then finishing them with James Hardie concrete siding for exceptional strength and longevity.

New Castle Steel formed the core of the framing, reinforced with fourteen gauge steel floor joists with structural steel wall studs for unmatched durability. We finished the deck surface, skirting, and wall cladding with DuraLife Decking to create a seamless, cohesive design. Every inch of the new 4500 square foot patio was crafted for beauty and purpose, featuring a 36,000 gallon 24’x36′ pool with an 8′ tall by 24′ wide waterfall and jump platform, a 400sf screened deck, and a 22’x24′ louvered pergola with a changing room.

With a heated pool, hot tub, 60,000 watts of electric heating, and nearly 1 Million BTUs of gas, this space provides resort style comfort through every season—a true reflection of craftsmanship, creativity, and enduring quality.