A returning customer is Archadeck of Austin’s best advertisement! We consider it the ultimate compliment when a past client moves to another home and hires us to design their new outdoor living space. The large, multi-faceted Round Rock, TX, outdoor living project featured here is the result of that kind of builder-client relationship.
The clients had total confidence that we could design and build anything they wanted for this space. While many homeowners think an outdoor kitchen and fireplace need to occupy a patio, this project illustrates that a deck can also hold a kitchen and fireplace.
These homeowners purchased a new home that was a completely new build. Naturally, since they loved the work we had done at their prior home, they called us again. While their new home was still under construction, we met with them and planned the outdoor living space they wanted.
Before Archadeck of Austin began the project.
Like so many brand-new homes, this one had very little in the way of outdoor structures for relaxation or entertaining. There was a tiny covered patio off the home’s main level that didn’t even come close to meeting the needs of the homeowners. Ultimately their project included several elements: a large, multi-level deck with a pergola, an outdoor kitchen and a fireplace. We were able to complete the design phase of the project even before our clients could move into their new home. Once they closed on the house, we were ready to begin our work onsite.
Round Rock TX Low-Maintenance AZEK Deck
This combination outdoor living space features a large deck spanning the entire length of the back of the home. If you have that much space available, why not make good use of it? The center portion of the deck is level with the main part of the house, including the original covered patio. We applied a decorative finish on the concrete patio to tie it into the deck.
On either side of its center portion, the deck steps down to another level. On one side, we built a beautiful chop stone fireplace. On the other side, we built an elegant outdoor kitchen with plenty of cooking options.
.jpg)
The clients chose low-maintenance AZEK decking in the Mahogany color. Our multi-level deck design includes picture framing around the perimeter of each section and at the base of the fireplace and kitchen structure. A deck this large is going to have a lot of railing, and the client selected black railing with thin balusters that don’t block the view.
Deck Amenities for Pure Outdoor Enjoyment
This deck design includes covered and open areas so the clients will always have access to shade but can enjoy the sunshine when they want to. Open areas on a deck are great for stargazing, too! The first shaded area is the original covered patio. The second shaded area is the outdoor kitchen.
Our clients wanted the dramatic look of a pergola for their kitchen with additional coverage for shade and protection from rain, too. A pergola over a specific section sets off that area and defines it as an outdoor room. As you may know, some pergolas provide more shade than others. It all depends on the pergola design. This large two-beam pergola, attached to the house, is designed for shade with purlins that are close together. The pergola also has a translucent cover that filters UV rays, blocks heat, and shields the outdoor kitchen from rain.
We built the base of the outdoor kitchen with chop block stone. While we didn’t install the granite countertops, we did install the smooth, cream Lueders stone surface that supports the clients’ Big Green Egg. You can see these homeowners plan to do a lot of cooking outdoors. In addition to the Big Green Egg they have a grill, a griddle, a refrigerator, storage space, warming drawers and more. With bar seating at the counter, their guests will be able to visit with the chef easily.
At the opposite end of this long deck you’ll find the clients’ outdoor fireplace. It’s a gas-burning fireplace we built with chop block stone matching the outdoor kitchen. We added a cap of cream Lueders stone on either side of the chimney. You may notice the stone hearth built into the deck. Building code requires you have non-combustible materials outside the fireplace doors. We used a combination of inlaid stone and an AZEK decking border for the hearth. There is plenty of room for comfortable seating in front of the fireplace.
Additional Work in Front of the Home
What you cannot see in these backyard photos is the front porch and path we also designed and built for this home. Your front porch and entry-way create the first impression of your home, so we made sure it will be a good impression. As for the backyard structures, you can tell our work here made a good impression on the clients’ sweet dog.
Are you looking for the functionality that a deck, pergola, outdoor kitchen and outdoor fireplace would bring to your back yard? Contact Archadeck of Austin to schedule your free design consultation.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
