How To Update Your Existing Outdoor Living Space Instead Of Starting From Scratch
Yes, we love those larger-than-life outdoor living space transformations that have made us a household name here in Austin. But sometimes, our clients simply need a touch or two to create a better, more desirable, and appealing outdoor leisure environment.
Meet The Small Outdoor Living Project With Big Results
The homeowners wanted to add some functional pizazz to their existing covered patio area in the Vizcaya neighborhood of Round Rock, TX.
The first order of this home improvement project was to extend the footprint of the front exterior foundation of the patio to give it more dimension and interest – as well as adding a wraparound garden bed for perennials along the rear perimeter of the space on either side of the new stone stairs leading into their backyard.
To do just that, we used white limestone with nicotine on the planter façade, creating a stunning plateau of form and function. We also used chocolate Lueders limestone as the cap atop the limestone planter wall – a rare find indeed in today’s materials market.
The finishing touch? Fortress aluminum railing in black for privacy and protection was used. Durable, affordable, and memorable, Fortress aluminum railings allow us to build smartly and boldly.
The railing’s aluminum foundation isn’t susceptible to corrosion or rust. It can easily hold up to tough weather, including ice, snow, rain and UV rays. And if that isn’t enough, aluminum railings won’t splinter, twist, shrink or warp and they require little upkeep. It’s a great way to enjoy elegance and style without excessive weight or expense surrounding your outdoor living space.
Proud To Be All Things To Some People
We are often asked the question, exactly what does Archadeck of Austin build?
Our answer is we are ALL things outdoor living.
Regardless of the size or scope of the project or outdoor living space enhancement, we build decks, porches, poolside structures, outdoor kitchens, outdoor fire features, pergolas, and much more! We specialize in designing and building custom outdoor living structures for the way you want to live outdoors. From high-quality, low-maintenance composite and PVC decks, to perfect porches, patios, and pergolas, we do it all.
With an expansive and extensive selection of premium building materials to choose from, our goal is to bring only the best to our clients and that includes not only the best design and craftsmanship but also the finest materials available.
What Kind Of Outdoor Magic Can We Custom Create For You Today?
Explore everything that is possible in your backyard with a complimentary design consultation with a member of our design team. Click here and let’s get started.
Patio Overlay And Masonry Wall Adds Privacy And Luxury To Georgetown, TX Backyard Space
Enjoying your backyard outdoor living space is wonderful. But when it becomes a “stage” for your nearby neighbors to see, well then, something needs to be done to ensure some modicum of privacy.
After all, just because you’re outside doesn’t mean your outdoor living activities and festivities need to become a reality show…
CALL ARCHADECK FOR PRIVACY OPTIONS FOR YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE
Reminiscent of a multi-level outdoor living luxury patio and hardscape space that you would see in the movies, this one had one thing missing. Privacy. So when the family connected with Archadeck of Austin designer, Jim Schallon, he knew exactly what was needed.
CMU to the rescue – or a Concrete Masonry Unit Wall.
Concrete masonry units are made from a mixture of Portland cement and aggregates under controlled conditions. The units can be made to various dimensions, but typically have face dimensions of 8 inches high by 16 inches wide.
Portland cement is the most common type of cement in general use around the world as a basic ingredient of concrete, mortar, stucco and non-specialty grout. It was developed from other types of hydraulic lime in England in the early 19th century by Joseph Aspdin, and is usually made from limestone.
This CMU concrete substructure with stone on both sides now provides a host of benefits for the family to remedy the fact that they were previously feeling “exposed.” They jokingly refer to it as “patio protection.”
Prior to the installation of the outdoor living privacy wall, we added a new overlay on the concrete patio to give it a refreshed look – a worthy host for what was to come atop it.
Typically known as the Georgetown patio and deck experts, this sight-and-sound outdoor barrier was quite fun for our team to design and install. It was a great change of pace – and perspective – for our outdoor living solutions experts.
WHY SHOULD I CONSIDER A CMU CONCRETE MASONRY UNIT WALL FOR MY BACKYARD OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES?
Now that this installation is part of our outdoor luxuries repertoire, we could spend hours talking about its features and benefits. But cutting to the chase, here is what is most important to know.
Privacy: Unless your next door neighbor has x-ray vision like Superman, they will never, ever see you sunbathing on your newly refurbished patio. Period. And if you’re enjoying tunes from your digital device with ear pods, chances are they will never know you’re out there. How’s that for privacy?
Security: Instead of being exposed for all to see, a Concrete Masonry Unit Wall is a great deterrent for possible intrusions. What can’t be seen is automatically protected from wandering eyes and sightlines.
Beauty: One look at the stunning structure of varied geometric shapes and sizes, the varying tones of gold, coral, tan and soft gray are magnificent to see. With such vertical beauty at your side, this privacy solution instantly eliminates the need for privacy landscaping that requires upkeep and eventually possible replacement in years to come. CMU is a one-and-done solution. Actually, here, no maintenance means no maintenance. Just turn you head and enjoy the view and serenity. And at night as the sun sets, the family now enjoys soft illumination cascading down from the cap area on top of the privacy wall.
Functionality: With some creative thinking, you can put your outdoor privacy wall to work. For example, for this family, we added a protected enclosure for an outdoor television. The new CMU now serves as a catalyst for an outdoor entertainment area. As you can see, we also added a recess with custom cedar shutters in order to enclose an outdoor TV. And connected to the home’s Wi-Fi, the family streams the most popular movies and TV series available!
WE’RE READY WHEN YOU ARE TO SOLVE YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING CHALLENGES
Contact Archadeck of Austin today to schedule your free design consultation.
Patio Gets Premium Upgrades for Family’s New Swim Spa in Mayfield Ranch, Round Rock, TX
The purchase of a swim spa was the inspiration for these homeowners in the Mayfield Ranch area of Round Rock, TX, to call Archadeck of Austin. They needed an extra-strong concrete pad for their new swim spa. It was the perfect opportunity to extend and upgrade their existing patio. Now they enjoy a much larger patio while they wait for their swim spa to be delivered. When it finally arrives, they will be more than ready for it!
Multi-tiered Patio Extends this Mayfield Ranch Family’s Outdoor Options
Our clients had a covered patio at the back of their home and wanted to extend it. We added what is essentially a second patio, just a few steps down from the first. The result is one big, multi-tiered patio that extends from the house out to the new swim spa location. The original patio is the family’s shaded area, and the new section is open to the stars. They will especially enjoy this open patio after dark.
Before 
Before
In preparation for the new patio area and swim spa support pad, we did a lot of digging! The early stage of installing a concrete patio involves digging trenches and laying steel rebar. The rebar stabilizes the concrete floor to give the patio a longer life. On this project, we also used the trenches to bury conduit so the client’s electrician can run power to the swim spa when it arrives. They will install outdoor electrical outlets, too, so the homeowners will have electricity on the patio for their convenience.
After 
After
The new patio surface features a beautiful flagstone pattern overlay. To create this surface, we used a mixture of quartz and concrete that is 8 times stronger than the concrete surface it is binding to. We etched the flagstone pattern into the surface of the overlayment, completing the grooves and grout work by hand. Then we hand-stained each individual piece and sealed the patio surface.
Turning Patio Steps Into an Art Form
Tying the new patio area into the existing patio, we rebuilt the patio steps more to the clients’ liking. These new steps leading from the covered patio to the open patio are wider and deeper than the original, increased from 12″ deep to 18″ deep. They are also shallower than the original steps, creating a more graceful transition from the upper to the lower tier.
As a finishing touch, we built a bench of chopped stone with a smooth stone cap for seating. Much like a seating wall, a bench like this saves space on the patio because it can seat more people than a row of bulky chairs. It’s perfect for additional seating. The homeowners can also use its surface as a place to set out refreshments.
Now the clients’ remaining task will be to install the swim spa on its new concrete pad at the end of the patio. With dimensions of 16’ long x 7’ wide x 60″ tall, this swim spa will be big and heavy. The concrete pad we have prepared for it will stand up to the test, we are certain.
Do you need a larger and more beautiful patio and a place for your hot tub or swim spa? We would love to create a custom solution to meet your outdoor living needs. Contact Archadeck of Austin to schedule your free design consultation.
Patio Perfection in the Cedar Park Neighborhood of Brushy Creek TX
When a project isn’t completed properly, you may try to live with it for a while. Perhaps you hope that, as time passes, you’ll decide it’s “good enough.” It has been our observation that sometimes this works, but more often it does not. Most clients who call us to complete another company’s work feel that when a project isn’t done right, it’s just not right. So they call Archadeck of Austin to finish the job correctly, sometimes to re-do the work of the first contractor. You might be surprised to learn how often we receive these calls.
Such was the case with the Brushy Creek patio featured here. This home is located in the Cedar Park neighborhood of Brushy Creek, TX. The homeowners were disappointed in the work of the company that poured their concrete patio. Their primary complaint: the patio just wasn’t finished in a way that spoke to their outdoor living needs.
When is a Cedar Park patio finished? The word “finish” has several meanings. First, we mean completed. The patio builder left the job without completing it (although they evidently believed they had completed it).
Austin Patio Builder Takes Patio from Barely There to Beautifully Appointed
Having their concrete patio finished properly was just the beginning for these homeowners. They had a vision for their patio that was based on how they wanted to use it. And not just that, but how they wanted to feel when they used it. They wanted this setting to feel comfortable, intimate and luxurious. Their vision included nighttime use, which meant the addition of lighting. Finally, their vision included entertaining guests, which meant the addition of bench seating around the patio’s perimeter.
Archadeck of Austin was able to improve upon the patio by creating the cozy space they craved through enhancement of the original design. We built a low stone wall around the patio’s perimeter with flagstone and capped it with a smooth stone surface for plenty of seating. We also skim coated the turn down wall (face wall) of the patio to give it a finished look.The finishing touch to the project was elegant lighting that provides the perfect ambiance after dark. For this lighting, we ran an electric line out to the patio and installed 6-inch LED lights between the stone wall and the wall’s top cap.
This feel-good story gets even better! We used the homeowner’s super smart transformer for this lighting installation so he can control the lighting intensity from an app on his cell phone. Sheer perfection.
Whether you are looking for an outdoor living company to re-do a poorly done job, or you simply want to be sure it’s done right the first time, call Archadeck of Austin today at 512-259-8282 or email us to schedule your free design consultation.
Patio, Pergola, Fire Pit Combination Transforms Liberty Hill, TX, Back Yard
A wise man once asked, When you have a big ol’ back yard, why be satisfied with a teeny-tiny, little patio? We like where he was going with that thought! And we would add, Especially here in Texas!
While it’s not entirely true that EVERYTHING’S bigger in Texas, Archadeck of Austin is doing our part to make it so, one patio at a time. The project we’re featuring today is a perfect example. The homeowners had a small patio at their back door. The door to the patio was also small, just a single door. The homeowners had big dreams of a better lifestyle that included a whole lot more patio enjoyment. To remedy the situation, they called Liberty Hill patio designer Archadeck of Austin.
Take a look before we began the project:
Our mission: increase the patio size, build a total shade pergola over most of the new patio area, add a fire pit, and install larger patio doors. Patio enjoyment would be theirs in no time.
Patio Builder Archadeck of Austin Makes Little Patios Bigger
Our first order of business was to increase the patio size. Hardscapes and patios are some of our specialties! For this project, we built the additional patio areas with concrete, and we added a nice stamped overlay finish. We kept the patio width the same on one side, but on the other side we extended the patio along the length of the house. We extended the middle section of the patio out into the yard, the perfect spot for a fire pit. We ended the middle section with a rounded shape where we nestled the round fire pit. The patio encircles the fire pit beautifully with room for family and guests to pull up chairs all the way around the entire circle.
The homeowners wanted a custom wood-burning fire pit, and for their fire pit materials, they selected white limestone with nicotine. The stone stands out nicely against the new, textured patio surface. It’s clear that we designed the rounded patio section and the fire pit to complement each other perfectly. The homeowners and their guests will spend many relaxing hours under the stars, mesmerized by the fire in their new fire pit.
Shaded Patios are the Standard in Liberty Hill, TX
The tiny, original concrete slab patio was covered by a roof, completely shaded, and that was the one thing about the original patio the homeowners liked. They definitely wanted the extended patio to be shaded, too – except the end that would be reserved for fire-gazing and star-gazing.
For shade, we designed a custom pergola made of cedar that does more than just provide shade. It transforms the concrete patio from “a place in the sun” into “the place to be.” The big, sturdy pergola, with ornamental cuts on the ends of the support beam and the rafters, makes a statement! It is boldly decorative, and it also provides shelter. The homeowners wanted complete shade as well as protection from inclement weather, so we added a polycarbonate sheet on top of the pergola to make the patio weatherproof.
Patio Windows Can Easily Become Patio Door
The homeowners wanted bigger patio doors, and they wanted those doors to offer a view of the back yard. Their original patio door gave them a view of a brick wall. Meanwhile, they had two nice-sized windows overlooking the patio and the back yard. Yes, these windows were occupying the space nature had surely intended for the placement of doors. Big doors that were also windows! The solution: remove the windows and install a pair of sliding glass doors.
Archadeck of Austin was up to this challenge. We removed the brick below the windows, removed the windows, and created a new door opening big enough for a set of sliding glass doors. Once we installed the new doors, we rebricked around them so you can’t even tell work has been done there. On the interior, we put in new drywall and headers above the doors. Our standards are high, and we do very good interior finish work when it’s called for. Inside and outside, the area surrounding the new doors looks impeccable and undisturbed. The homeowners have the bigger doors they wanted and a better view of the amazing new patio and the back yard.
Is There Anything Else We Can Do for You?
Clients are accustomed to seeing the “pretty” side of the work we do, but sometimes there’s another side, too. As part of this project, we also installed a drainage system for the yard. The homeowners had found that water running off of the house wasn’t draining well due to the slope and topography of the lot. We used a catch bucket and basin system to distribute any water from left to right to prevent rainwater from flooding the patio.
Now these Liberty Hill TX homeowners have a much bigger patio with plenty of shade and room for grilling and dining outdoors. After dinner, they’ll enjoy their new fire pit. They couldn’t be happier with their combination patio-pergola-fire pit outdoor living project.
Are you ready to transform your outdoor living area? We can custom design and build a covered patio, fire pit, or whatever it will take to improve your outdoor living space. Call Archadeck of Austin today at 512-259-8282 or email us to schedule your free design consultation.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
Dog approves of NW Austin total patio makeover by Archadeck of Austin
When we took on this project in the NW Austin area off of 620 and Boulder Ave., we didn’t quite understand that all work had to be dog-approved. Luckily we got along well with the family pet, which loves the new bigger-and-better patio and pergola combination we designed and installed. On sunnier days, this pampered pooch probably make its way over to the side of the patio that’s covered by the pergola. We’re betting on that.
These NW Austin homeowners called patio builder Archadeck of Austin because they wanted to overhaul their patio and deck combination. The low-to-grade wood deck was not aging well and needed to be replaced. The covered patio wasn’t functioning as a patio at all, but more as a place to walk through on your way from the yard or deck to get into the house.
Before Archadeck of Austin began the project:
The new outdoor living space we designed for the family called for removing the low deck and extending the patio in its place. We also added a stone retaining wall that can be used for additional seating, and we built a big, beefy pergola to replace the smaller one they had on the deck.
As sometimes happens, when we demo’d the deck we came across hidden conditions the homeowners had not been aware of. The deck had included one wooden step up from the patio to the deck surface, and that step had rotted. The step had been built closely around the original posts holding up the roof over the patio, so the posts had been compromised. They were no longer sound enough to continue supporting the patio cover.
To remedy this problem, Archadeck of Austin replaced the four original posts with what are called star posts, technically load-bearing posts that are hollow on the inside. These new posts are specifically designed to carry loads. In this case, the load is the roof over the original portion of the patio. We put a new base around each star post and painted them to match the original color.
And … there was more. When we removed the deck we found that water had seeped into a gap where the deck met the house, and the house siding had rotted at that connecting point. Fortunately the homeowner had an extra piece of siding tucked away in the garage. We were able to remove the damaged portion of the siding and replace it with the extra piece. With the siding repaired, we painted the replacement piece of siding to match the house color.
So, back to the patio! We extended the patio across the area previously covered by the deck. The homeowners now have a large and truly functional patio. The patio surface is a resilient stained concrete, and we stained the original section of the patio, too, so it would all match. We built a stone retaining wall enclosing three sides of the patio, and that wall has a smooth stone top that also makes it the perfect seating wall if additional seating is needed outdoors.
The homeowners wanted a bigger pergola for more shade, and we accomplished that. The new cedar pergola looks extra beefy because we used 2x10s for the rafter system instead of the traditional 2×8″ boards we usually use for that purpose.
Finally, we installed a ceiling fan under the pergola and placed sconce lights on the pergola posts for safety and ambiance on the patio after dark.
The family dog is truly content with the wonderful new patio, and we believe is fully appreciative of the shade the large pergola will provide once warmer weather sets in.
If you would like to talk with us about enlarging your patio or building a combination outdoor living space, contact Archadeck of Austin today at (512) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net to schedule a free design consultation.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
3 signs it’s time to kick your Round Rock, TX, builder-grade patio to the curb for something better
- You’ve purchased a brand new house — new construction — that came with a builder-grade patio.
- You’ve purchased an older home where the prior homeowner kept the original builder-grade patio.
- You’ve been living in your home for a while now, and you have it set up pretty much like you want it, except for the builder-grade patio.
You’re probably picking up on our theme here. If one of the above signs describes your situation, then you have a lot in common with our recent clients, who needed a reputable Round Rock patio builder. Wisely, they called Archadeck of Austin for a free design consultation. We have built many, many patios over the years, and each new client benefits from those years of experience.
Today’s featured outdoor living project is a patio extension, but it’s really more than just an increase in the patio’s size. When you increase the size of a patio (or a deck, for that matter) you increase its function exponentially. Suddenly you have a more livable outdoor living space that you can actually do something with. Decorate! Entertain! Cook out, eat out and just sit around relaxing with family and friends.
These homeowners wanted to increase their patio’s livability even more. Their dream project included a fire pit and an outdoor kitchen. At one point they were considering a deck addition instead of a bigger patio. As they explored options with their Archadeck designer, however, it became clear that extending the patio would be less expensive than adding a deck. And a patio would be the ideal setting for a fire pit and outdoor kitchen. That settled it.
When Archadeck of Austin builds patios, we dig trenches. Seeing the finished project, you wouldn’t know we’ve done that, but we add these trenches to give homeowners some extra peace of mind. We use a beam system under all of our concrete patios. First, we dig trenches about 12″ deep along the perimeter and some within the interior of the patio area. The perimeter and internal beams are reinforced with steel rebar to stabilize the patio. Having this reinforced beam system within the base of the concrete structure prevents the patio from moving and settling over time. While it’s still possible that the concrete will crack, as it often does, having that extra stability means ground movement will not cause structural damage to the patio.
We also dug a trench to run conduit for gas lines that would be needed for the fire pit and the outdoor kitchen. The trench specifically for this purpose must be 18″ deep.
For this patio, we used an overlayment process to create the beautifully textured surface you see here.
Once the trenches are dug and steel are in place, then we can pour concrete. For this patio, we used an overlayment process to create the beautifully textured surface you see here. We also added two sets of stairs, one by the kitchen leading to the side yard and the pictured stairs running to the rear yard. We also added two gates to the top of each , as they have grandchildren and pets to contain.
Now we come to this project’s special added features, which are very popular in Round Rock: the fire pit and the outdoor kitchen. These structures are made of white limestone. The outdoor kitchen includes a gas grill and a pedestal for the homeowners’ Big Green Egg style smoker. The 4′ fire pit has a regulator and starter. Notice how the back wall of the fire pit is built up so we didn’t need to run any railing across the backside of the fire pit. While practical, the stone wall also adds character to the project.
The finishing touch for this patio is a black metal railing system, by Fortress, that borders the patio’s edge. The railing helps define the area visually while also providing safety.
As you can see from the before and after pictures, these homeowners gained more than just a bigger space when they extended their builder-grade patio. They gained a multi-functional outdoor living area, with an emphasis on living. These clients are so pleased with the finished project that they have already referred Archadeck of Austin to two neighbors looking for a Round Rock patio builder specializing in outdoor kitchens and custom outdoor fire features. We love referrals!
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
If you have a builder-grade patio and want to learn more about the many benefits of expanding it into a more livable outdoor living space, contact Archadeck of Austin today at (512) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net to schedule a free design consultation.
New porch, patio and outdoor kitchen combo has Steiner Ranch family ready for Labor Day!
Make yours a combo! This combination screened porch, extended patio and outdoor kitchen project in the Steiner Ranch community of Austin, TX, has oodles of great features. Where do we begin?
These Steiner Ranch homeowners hired Archadeck of Austin to convert a covered patio into a screened porch with a patio extension. We extended the original patio outward from the home’s back door and also extended it across the back of the house, creating an “L” shape.
The new patio is made of poured concrete with a textured concrete overlay, and the textured surface is absolutely beautiful. To enhance it even more, we added a score pattern so that the surface actually looks like tile. Really! Then we added a flagstone patio two steps down for additional seating.
The lower patio is noteworthy because of the way we designed and built it for durability and longevity. Many contractors would simply build a wall around the defined patio area and fill it with decomposed granite for the patio base. Archadeck of Austin has seen too many of these patios gone bad. Using decomposed granite this way can cause cracking and sinking of the patio due to natural settling over time. Instead, we poured a solid concrete patio base and then installed the flagstone over it. This reduces the chances of the flagstone patio dropping, cracking, settling, etc.
Now, on to the screened porch. We built a 12×14-foot screened enclosure over the shorter part of the “L” shape on the upper patio extension. Remember, this is the part of the patio extension that looks like a tile floor. The porch has a stick-built gabled roof with a 2-inch screen system in clay to match the home’s existing windows. The ceiling of the porch is our favorite — the Synergy tongue-and-groove wood ceiling with rich, warm tones. We recommend this pre-finished wood ceiling for its beauty, and we use it whenever we can.
The new screened porch also included the installation of a full electrical package with ceiling fans and outlets for lighting or electronics. To make the space cozy when needed, we installed two heating units, one on either side of the porch.
For the grill-master/chef we installed an outdoor kitchen on the longer “L”-portion of the upper deck that was not screened in. The kitchen includes a good-sized counter space complete with electrical outlets, barbeque grill, cooktop, and storage areas. While these stainless steel components seem very practical, the presentation is also quite attractive.
The base of the kitchen area (also called the kitchen surround) is built with 4-, 6- and 8-inch chop block stone in the Santa Fe color. The countertop is made from smooth slabs of brown Lueders stone, a beautiful and durable stone. You can already picture the bartender standing here slicing limes while the family grill-master preps steaks and veggies for the grill.
We have this Steiner Ranch family ready to enjoy their cookouts, just in time for Labor Day! There’s a large dining table next to the kitchen area and room for additional diners to sit on the screened porch and out on the lower flagstone patio. Dining al fresco will become this family’s new favorite pastime.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
Where will you cook out? If you would like to learn more about creating a porch, patio and/or outdoor kitchen combination project of your dreams, contact Archadeck of Austin today at (512) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net to schedule a free design consultation.
Challenge us! Archadeck of Austin designs a permeable patio to complete the perfect combination outdoor space
Present us with a design challenge, and we will show you a big ol’ knock-your-socks-off solution. Archadeck of Austin was thrilled to work with this Northwest Austin homeowner to design and build a spectacular outdoor living space, a combination screened room, patio and deck with an outdoor kitchen. One of the things that is so special about this project is its unique patio with a hot tub and a dramatic fire wall.
What could be so unique about a patio? Well, that brings us to the challenge presented by this homeowner. We were asked to design a patio that incorporates the proper drainage for water runoff so moisture will be retained and released properly into the natural aquifers in and around the Austin area. A permeable patio, that is. Jim Schallon, Archadeck’s lead designer on this project, managed to meet the technical requirements while creating a beautiful and relaxing oasis for the homeowner, family and friends.
Image of backyard before we began the project:
The home had an existing wood deck in good shape and just the right size for an outdoor kitchen. By power-washing the deck and restaining it, we were able to restore the wood’s beauty and establish this area as the centerpiece of the project. On one side of the deck, we added a spacious screened room with a new roof cover that we tied into the existing slope system of the house. On the other side of the deck, we added the patio with hot tub and fire wall.
We placed the outdoor kitchen on the deck by building a wall, counter height, with Concrete Masonry Units (CMU, also called concrete blocks) and finishing it with a facing of beautiful ledgestone. All of the outdoor kitchens designed and built by Archadeck of Austin are built with masonry-cinder block construction. Other builders may use wood for the kitchen structure, since it will be covered with a stone facing and no one will see it. However, our sturdy outdoor kitchen construction won’t deteriorate or degrade over time; it’s permanent.
The 1” hand-installed ledgestone facing helps provide a solid support structure for the kitchen counter and appliances. The homeowner chose brown Lueders stone for the countertops, and we used matching brown Lueders cap to top off all of the walls. A dense limestone known for its durability and low maintenance requirements, Lueders stone is perfect for kitchen countertops.
This kitchen’s built-in grill alone will command your attention! It’s a Memphis wood-pellet BBQ system with Wi-Fi capabilities. The homeowner can monitor and adjust the temperature of the grill from anywhere; the grill can even send an alert to his smartphone if needed. In addition to the Memphis Wood Fire Grill, the new outdoor kitchen includes a refrigerator, drawers, storage and trash receptacle.
With plenty of space on the deck for a dining table and chairs, meals will go from grill to table in an instant. If (or when) insects are a problem, the new adjacent screened room offers a pest-free dining area as well.
This screened room boasts a rich Synergy Wood ceiling with ceiling fansto keep the air moving. A large flat-screen TV is mounted on a stacked stone wall built just for that purpose; we used the same ledgestone here that we used for walls in the kitchen and patio areas. Of course, we built in electricity to power the TV, fans, lamps and the homeowner’s outdoor heater to take the chill off in winter. The floor of the screened room is a textured stamped concrete that will stand up to many years of constant use.
And now for the patio, which had to be permeable. For the base of the patio, we layered gravel and soil. The patio surface is a repeating pattern of large pavers and smooth stones. Together these components allow water to flow naturally through the patio surface while providing a smooth texture on which to walk. Specifically, the patio pavers are 2×2 sawn cream Lueders stone, beautiful and durable.
The spaces between the pavers are filled with smooth Mexican Beach pebbles. Not only is the smoothness easy on bare feet but also the river rock feels cool to the touch as it retains the natural temperature of the ground at all times.
Prominent on the patio is the hot tub, and next to that we built a gas-burning fire wall, which might just be the fire feature of your outdoor living dreams. It is a ledgestone wall lined with fire brick and filled with lava rock. Hidden there are 60 and 72-inch stainless steel linear T-burners.
When lit, flames seem to dance along the top of the wall. The height of the fire wall is about even with the surface of the hot tub, so, as you can imagine, occupants of the hot tub will become a captive audience for this magical feature at night.
If you would like to challenge us to create the patio, porch and outdoor kitchen combination project of your dreams, contact Archadeck of Austin today at (512) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net to schedule a free design consultation.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
Archadeck of Austin Recommends Resurfacing Rather Than Staining Concrete
When is the last time you were told “satisfaction is not guaranteed“? Probably never! However, if you are looking at Austin patio ideas and are thinking about getting your existing patio stained, we ask you to give some more thought to that before you proceed. Archadeck of Austin can offer a better solution.
Perhaps you have wanted to give your old patio new life and considered staining to be like a face lift for concrete. You may have seen a neighbor’s patio that was stained, and maybe they were thrilled with it. We want to caution you about expecting the same results at your home. There is just no way of knowing how staining will turn out. Here is the truth: Staining concrete is so unpredictable that we ask our clients to sign a disclaimer before we will stain their concrete surfaces.
The best thing about staining is the price. It is the most affordable option if you simply want a new look for your patio. But is it worth the risk? We have stained patios with mixed results — and it’s not just us. We don’t want to get too technical here, but the most important factor is the condition of the concrete. How porous is the surface? And is that porosity uniform across the entire surface? Does the patio show any (unintentional) stains, maybe from fruit punch spilled during a long-ago birthday party?
Keep in mind that while stain adds color to concrete, it does not cover up markings already there. Stain does not cover a surface the way paint does; it permeates the concrete. If a concrete sealer was applied to your patio in years past, that sealer will affect the results of staining today. How well was the concrete cured, originally, and was it cured uniformly? Was a curing membrane applied to the concrete? There may be a lot you don’t know about that patio you see every day. Inconsistent sealing or curing, no matter how long ago, will lead to inconsistent results when the patio is stained.
Austin covered patio with custom overlayment.
Archadeck of Austin recommends resurfacing, also called concrete overlay, instead of staining a patio to give it new life. We can show you exactly how it will turn out. If its surface is even and has no large cracks, your patio is a good candidate for resurfacing. We will apply a concrete overlay, a cement-like material that we spray or spread over your patio to give it a new surface.
Even better, you can select a decorative finish for your patio such as the look and texture of stone. We can achieve the look of stone by stenciling or stamping the overlay after it’s applied. We can show you a wide range of textures and colors for your “new” patio. You can even request a slip-resistant surface if that feature is important to you! What’s more, we recommend installing the concrete overlay near a pool, if you have one, because the new surface is less likely to be damaged by pool chemicals or exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
In a hurry? Many concrete overlay products dry quickly. Don’t wait to call us! If you would like to learn more about updating your patio without having to remove it and start over, contact Archadeck of Austin today at (512) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net to schedule a free design consultation.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
This Spacious Cedar Park, TX, Patio-Pergola-Fire-Pit Combination Pairs the Natural Beauty of Flagstone and Cedar
What could be better than a big, beautiful flagstone patio just outside your back door? How about a double flagstone patio with a grand cedar pergola for shade at one end and a stone fire pit for warmth and ambiance at the other end? Archadeck of Austin recently completed such a combination outdoor living addition in Cedar Park, Texas, and the homeowner can’t wait to show it off.
The first two things you notice here are the spacious patio, with its unique curvy shape, and the beauty of the multi-blend Oklahoma flagstone. Equally as impressive is the rustic cedar pergola, and this pairing of natural flagstone and cedar is stunning. In character with its Texas setting, this pergola is stronger and “beefier” than some because it features big, 6″ x 6″ posts, exceeding the normal standards for pergola construction. Since shade is so valuable on sunny Texas days, we designed the pergola with 2″ x 2″ slats across the top spaced every 3″ apart to enhance the structure’s shade benefits. Strings of party lights hanging from the pergola’s rafters turn this section of the patio into the ideal spot for outdoor dining any time, day or night.
On cooler evenings, the family will be drawn to the opposite end of the large patio where a matching stone fire pit will provide warmth as well as cozy ambiance. This is a gas-burning fire pit with a 36″ burner that heats rock and blue glass stones. The result is a highly effective and beautiful fire pit with stones that glow with firelight and put off a lot of heat. Don’t you love the custom-designed Texas star pattern of the blue glass stones in the fire pit?
Family and friends will naturally gather around the fire pit to share stories, sing campfire songs or just get lost in the hypnotic glow of the flames. This Texas-size patio is large enough that quite a few people can gather by the fire for warmth and camaraderie. The homeowner chose to add a seating wall on one side of the fire pit while leaving the other side open for patio furniture that can be rearranged depending on the need. The seating wall was built with natural limestone that complements the flagstone patio but doesn’t compete with it for attention.
This patio floor is built to exceed the standards for patio builders in the Austin area. Most builders only use a layer of decomposed granite with grout mixed in as the base for their patios. Archadeck of Austin actually poured a solid, full-scale concrete patio to use as the patio’s base. This is because, over time, this patio will not sink, tile chip or joints crack with this method. This gives the patio a longer life with no chance of incurring structural issues due to weather conditions or time.
Archadeck of Austin started this gorgeous project with a “blank slate” because, before we built this addition, the rear of the house simply opened into the backyard. The finished patio makes great use of an area that was once void, so this project can serve as inspiration for anyone presently lacking an outdoor living space!
If you would like to learn more about creating such an inviting outdoor living space right outside your back door, contact Archadeck of Austin today at (512) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
This Austin Covered Patio Serves as the Perfect Outdoor Man Cave and Much More!
This patio cover in Austin, TX, by Archadeck of Austin is a true masterpiece of design. As you can clearly see from the images, the space appears as if it has stepped off the pages and into reality from one of those glossy home & garden magazines. Jim Schallon, our lead designer, came up with the concept on this structure.
Even though some would say this patio cover serves as the ultimate outdoor man cave area, the benefits of the space exceed just enjoying the big game outdoors. This space serves a multitude of uses, it can evolve as your needs evolve. From outdoor entertaining to relaxing by the fire. The presence of the TV provides a space for family movie night, watching home videos and much more! The possibilities are as endless as the imagination.
The floor of the patio features a textured overlay finish, this was present on both the existing (older) patio and the new concrete patio and featured a custom designed Texas Star in the center. Having the advantage of a textural finish for the patio not only increases the aesthetic appeal of the space adding to the rustic nuances present in the natural stone used throughout the project, it also increases traction within the space. This makes the area easy to navigate even when outside weather conditions may be damp.
The focal point of the space is surely the large outdoor fireplace. Archadeck of Austin designed and built this fire feature and custom fire boxes attached using the same all natural stone used on the facade of the existing home. Since the homeowner’s wanted to attached a TV over the mantel of the fireplace, we ingeniously created a built-in space under the hearth that holds the electronic equipment for the TV. By working with the homeowner’s audio-visual professional, conduit was ran to perfect this feature and in addition a speaker system was installed within the ceiling of the space. Not only is the addition of these elements innovative, it also ensures the wiring and cords stay out of view promoting a clean, wireless atmosphere.
The exterior sunshades directly behind the outdoor fireplace were installed by a local company here in Austin. Austintatious Blinds that specializes in a diverse array of blind and shutter solutions. From custom wood shutters to polyscreens and other shade materials for exterior and interior residential and commercial use. These retractable shades allow the homeowners to block out the late afternoon sun.
The ceiling of the patio cover is simply stunning! We used Synergy Cypress E-Peck tongue and groove to get this amazing rustic look. Synergy products require no staining or sanding and come with an exterior grade protective polyurethane finish. You can also see a continuation of the rustic nuances evident in the ceiling are carried through the entire design including the cedar-wrapped posts. The railing we used is also cedar with aluminum balusters.
Take a look at this amazing project through the video we created for our Archadeck of Austin YouTube channel:
The homeowners are elated with the design, the process and of course, the finished patio cover!
If you would like to learn more about creating the ultimate outdoor room for your home, contact Archadeck of Austin today at (515) 259-8282 or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
This Urban-Chic Oasis in South Austin is Loaded with Zen-Inspired Details Promoting Calm and Serenity!
So, you’ve mastered the design inside your home, and you’re finally feeling at peace, but what about your outdoor living space? Are you looking to spend more time in your outdoor living space, enjoying the company of family and friends, or curled up reading a book? If you find yourself falling into this category, then it’s time to master the harmony and peace in your outdoor space.
The design of an outdoor space is an area that is often designed with the impetus of functionality –for example; when planning an outdoor kitchen, the emphasis lies in placement and proximity to the dining area, or if it’s a fireplace, how many people can comfortably sit around it at night under the stars. However, once in a while the design of an outdoor space needs to reflect a lot more than functionality, it needs to reflect the interaction between the human and their environment, while providing natural energy flow.
Feng Shui is the art of placement, based off the elements of earth to improve the balance of comfort and harmony in your environment. The term was coined from two Chinese words; Feng meaning Wind, and Shui meaning Water – these are the two natural elements that continuously flow and circulate everywhere on earth. These elements have widely influenced human individuals and societies which is why it is important to design a space with Feng Shui in mind.
One of our most recent projects is inspired by the concept of Feng Shui. This urban-chic patio addition was added to this classic home in the historic district of South Austin, TX. These homeowners were looking for a more cohesive design to go along with the urban feel which the area provides.
Here is the backyard before Archadeck of Austin began the new patio addition:
Jim Schallon, our lead designer for the project came up with this urban-chic oasis while meeting requirements necessary for an addition that will allow moisture to be retained and released properly into the natural aquifers, in and around the Austin area. Strategic planning was necessary to find the right material that would allow the proper drainage for water runoff.
To meet these requirements, Schallon designed the backyard patio compacted with layers of gravel and soil, topping it with Mexican river rock, which will allow water to flow naturally through the surface while providing a smooth texture. Not only is the river rock easy on bare feet but also provides a cooling feel as it retains the natural temperature of the ground at all times. The patio was finished off with 2×2 sawn cream Limestone pavers throughout, but the design didn’t stop at the patio pavers and rock choice. In addition with the contemporary design, electrical was installed to incorporate the last piece of this urban chic oasis; the hot tub!
The homeowner’s are ecstatic with their ‘Zen inspired’ patio that has been loaded with a positive energy flow, and ties in the importance of Feng Shui.
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
If you too are interested in making your dream outdoor living space a reality, contact Archadeck of Austin at (515) 259-8282 to schedule a free design consultation today or via email at jim.odom@archadeck.net.
Our Brushy Creek, TX, Covered Patio Delivers Privacy and All the Trimmings Under One Roof!
Here are the key elements that go into creating the perfect outdoor living space:
- Enhanced beauty of your home and landscape
- Increased backyard/outdoor functionality
- Versatility and variety
- Shade and air circulation
- Room for good traffic flow and outdoor furnishings
- Protection from inclement weather
- Shade
- Privacy
It is uncommon to have the ability to incorporate each of the key elements listed above into every outdoor living structure we design and build, but in the case of our recent covered patio addition in Brushy Creek, TX, we can say “yes” to all of the above! This addition delivers all the elements a savvy homeowner would want in an outdoor living space.
This covered porch addition is quite large, encompassing a gabled roofed area of approximately 27′ wide and 12′ deep onto the back of the existing home. It features a 33′ wide stained and stamped concrete patio that includes a combination of two(2) neautral colors for added depth and visual interest. In addition to staining the concrete patio, Archadeck of Austin also stained the entire foundation across the back of home in the same color for continuity. The soffits and fascia are clad in Hardie Board to match the existing home. The open gable design also feature an arts & craft decorative element often used in craftsmen-style structures and delivers a gentle transition into the backyard from the coziness of the porch cover.
The interior details of this patio cover are just as impressive as those implemented into the design of the exterior. The ceiling of the space was finished using Synergy Wood Products in Cypress. This amazing product is new and has been added to our arsenal of cutting edge material choices we offer here at Archadeck of Austin. This product works great for ceilings and walls and has a poly-finish that is rubbed by hand to create the high-quality aesthetic and rustic look you see here. Synergy comes in 4 finishes, Cypress, Ponderosa Pine, Yellow Pine and Cedar.
Along with the striking rustic wood detailing evident throughout the patio cover, we also installed a custom-designed privacy screen to keep prying eyes from looking into the space.
On the interior of the patio cover we also installed two large Haiku ceiling fans from Big Ass Fans ( yes, that’s the name of the company). These fans are touted as the world’s most advanced ceiling fan. Haiku fans utilize groundbreaking SenseME® technology to automate your comfort and save energy year round. These fans have won more than 60 international design and technology awards and currently hold the top 19 spots on ENERGY STAR®‘s list of efficient ceiling fans. These oversized residential-use fans make a huge statement and promote superior air circulation too cool the patio on those hot Texas days!
Archadeck of Austin also installed recessed can lighting within the space for added ambiance and unlimited evening enjoyment!
If you are ready to learn what it truly means to have an outdoor living space that gives you all the elements you yearn for, contact Archadeck of Austin at ( 512) 259 – 8282 or email us at jim.odom@archadeck.net, and say “yes to all of the above.”
Jim Schallon, senior designer Archadeck of Austin.
Archadeck of Austin creates a cozy and contemporary outdoor space to enjoy day and night!
Part of what makes my job so rewarding is the transformation process. This process goes beyond transforming an aged, or less than functional outdoor living space into a beautiful asset to the clients’ home and property. The reward comes from reading the excitement and satisfaction on their face and knowing the enjoyment they will get from the new outdoor living space for years to come! This is exactly the kind of project our recent transformation in Austin was. Archadeck of Austin turned an outdoor area consisting of an aging wooden deck into a cozy, contemporary patio that promises day and evening outdoor living.
Before the transformation began:
After meeting with the homeowners’ and discussing their desires and needs we went to work on a design that would compliment their home and allow them to partake in the outdoor lifestyle they craved. The new design includes a tile covered patio, inviting steps, and iron railing and is loaded with upscale, contemporary style. During construction of the project the homeowners’ also decided to add the pergola and replace two wooden gates on each aid of the yard access. The gates on both sides of the house were old and in disrepair.
The client asked us to design an attractive center opening wide gate design with powder coated metal posts, cedar deck boards mounted vertically in an interesting pattern.
The slab was a little over two feet above grade and was poured flush with the existing patio and attached via rebar doweled into the foundation. Provisions were made prior to pouring the foundation for the low-voltage lights and the electrical connection for a ceiling fan to be placed under the pergola. The client’s chose a Madison Silver porcelain tile in rectangular pieces which were laid over the new surface and existing patio. A tile schluter was used to avoid cracking of tiles between the new and old patios . The sleek railings are Fortress rails with LED Fortress post cap lights. The addition of lighting added to the times the homeowners’ can now enjoy their new space, without limitations and bathed in ambient light! The pergola is built from western red cedar with a bracket attached at the roof fascia.
In addition to the changes made to their outdoor living space, the clients’ also replaced all their existing gutters and repainted the entire house to compliment the tile choice — a total transformation indeed!
If you are envisioning an outdoor living space transformation in your near future, contact Archadeck of Austin. We can plan, design and build an outdoor space for you that will not only improve your outdoor experience but, we can create an area for you that make a design statement as well. Call for a free consultation at ( 512) 259 – 8282 or email us at jim.odom@archadeck.net.
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
Austin Decks, Pergolas, Covered Patios, Porches, more 