Open Porch

From the moment these homeowners shared their vision, we knew this build would be something special. They wanted a deck that didn’t just extend their living space but created an atmosphere a place that felt like a private retreat or even their own backyard winery. Every detail, from the layout to the roofline, was designed to evoke that warm, relaxed, and refined feel.

The biggest challenge wasn’t the distance though the project was two and a half hours south of our usual area it was engineering a roof that could connect seamlessly to the home without compromising headroom or proportion. The original plans made that seem impossible, but after careful redesign, we lowered the deck’s center section to achieve perfect clearance. That structural decision became the turning point of the entire project.

With the new elevation came opportunity: open beams, natural light, and airflow transformed the space into a stunning focal point. Underneath the roof, the homeowners now enjoy a comfortable, shaded gathering area that flows effortlessly into the deck’s intricate borders and custom inlays.

This project is more than craftsmanship it’s creativity, problem-solving, and architectural harmony brought to life.

Homeowner’s Goal: Transform the deck into a year-round outdoor living space with full coverage and no snow
shoveling.

Engineering Challenge: Massive footers were dug into existing concrete, requiring absolute precision for
structural integrity.

Architectural Timber Package:

• 8″x16″ milled rough beams for dramatic scale
• 8″x8″ milled rough posts anchoring the structure
• 6″x8″ milled rough rafters in a fully exposed layout
• 2×6 tongue-and-groove (T&G) decking above rafters for a finished architectural ceiling

Structural & Framing Complexity:

• A double hip beam was installed at the end of the gable to achieve proper beam height.
• Five windows were removed, reframed smaller, and rebuilt to accommodate the new gable roof design.
• House sits on an angle; deck roof was designed to follow this geometry.
• Rafters framed square to the ridge beam, requiring precise compound cuts both at the house and outer
  edges.

Waterproof Innovation: The deck system was waterproofed, making the space beneath a second functional
outdoor living area.

Final Result:
A bold timber-framed structure with flawless exposed joinery. Seamless integration with the home’s unique architecture. Two levels of usable, protected outdoor space—enjoyed year-round without snow removal.

This project presented unique challenges due to existing windows and the desire to maintain natural light through the back doors. The homeowners wanted a covered space without compromising daylight and without adding a hood over the outdoor kitchen.

The solution features a combination of a louvered roof and a traditional fixed roof. The louvered section provides adjustable shade and ventilation, while the traditional roof offers solid coverage for the kitchen and lounge areas. One window on the house was replaced to seamlessly integrate the roof structure without disrupting sightlines.

Transitional design elements—including cable railings and a curved fire lounge—soften the home’s angular architecture and create a flowing, inviting space. The lounge’s curvature encourages conversation and enhances the connection between covered and open-air areas.

Through careful structural planning and thoughtful design, this backyard transforms into a versatile retreat that balances light, function, and style, demonstrating how multiple roof types can coexist elegantly within a single cohesive space.