What a difference an Archadeck of Austin porch cover can make!
Ah, the sun, glorious sun! When we feel chilly, sunlight warms the skin and thaws the chilly spots. But when we’re already warm … that big Texas sunshine can be downright uncomfortable. Escape is all we can think of. A sun umbrella? Not big enough. A porch roof? Aha! That’s the ticket. A new porch cover built by Archadeck of Austin? The best!
Archadeck of Austin was able to help these North Austin homeowners reclaim their backyard patio. The family enjoyed using their backyard pool, but the adjoining patio, uncovered, seemed to be a magnet for blistering sunshine that made sitting outside unbearable. They wanted to turn their unusable patio into an area where they could relax outdoors without being driven inside by the hot sun. A new porch roof would provide the comfort they craved.
The homeowners first met with Archadeck of Austin a year ago. In terms of ideas, they were ready to proceed with a covered patio/porch project, but their budget was not. They estimated they would be ready in early 2017. Fortunately, they were able to start a little sooner; they called us back in December 2016, ready to roll.
Before
Our first task was to repair a large crack in the existing concrete patio. We cut out that portion of the concrete and filled it back in, and at the same time we added two more feet to the patio’s depth. The patio is now 24′ x 14′ — more space for outdoor living! While we were working with the concrete, we added a conduit so the homeowner could hook up his gas line with a flex line to grill out beyond the patio. That’s a convenience he will appreciate for years to come. Of course, the concrete cut-out/replacement and the additional square footage blend in seamlessly with the original patio surface.
After repairing and enlarging the patio, we were ready to build the all-important porch roof. The addition of a roof is what changes this area from a simple patio into a porch — and into a new-and-improved outdoor living space. We were able to match the style and color of the home’s existing shingles so it all blends nicely.
Under the roof is a vaulted ceiling made of beautiful Synergy Wood, hand-stained and prefinished wood with warm, rich tones. At the back of the porch, a ridge wall and flat ceiling/soffit, also built with Synergy Wood, provide a handsome transition from the painted porch wall to the vaulted wood ceiling. We added a full electrical package with a ceiling fan and built-in recessed lighting, and the homeowner mounted a flat-screen TV along the back wall. In the soffit area, we made sure to place the recessed lighting behind the TV so the images on the screen are not diluted when lights are on and the television is in use.
While the back of the porch roof is tied into the home, the front rests on Hardie-wrapped beams and columns, which we painted to match the home. We added stone coping at the bottom of the columns to match what had been used around the hot tub and pool.
At the very end of the project, Sundek (the company that originally surfaced the home’s concrete pool surround) applied a cool-coat finish to the concrete. This finish provides a comfortable walking surface for bare feet by reducing heat build-up. It’s cooler than regular concrete, brick or tile, and it’s slip resistant, too!
The homeowners added comfy porch furniture and, voila! They have a comfortable, inviting covered porch enhanced by a ceiling fan, lights and TV. Gone is the blistering heat of the uncovered patio, a place no one wanted to be! They love, love, love their new outdoor living space and look forward to spending many relaxing hours there.
If you would like to learn more about turning your patio into a porch fitted out for relaxing and entertaining, or about combining a porch and patio with other outdoor living structures, 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 Versatile Pergola in Bee Cave, TX, is Nothing Short of a Modern Marvel
A pergola is often designed as an outdoor room that provides a light, airy and inviting space to relax, dine or just admire. Pergolas are much larger than arbors and are generally freestanding, but can be attached to another building. You can also add amendments for more shade and to accommodate climbing vines. Because a pergola can be freestanding, you won’t need to make any complicated connections between the house or roof and the pergola, which is a definite advantage for many homeowners looking to add an outdoor space to an area within the landscape. Though this defines a pergola from a text-book perspective, the pergolas we design here at Archadeck of Austin are far from the generic description. Case in point is our pergola addition in Bee Cave, TX, that is nothing short of a modern marvel….
When you imagine a pergola, the first thing that probably comes to mind is an outdoor structure used to generate a variable amount shade and serve as a focal point to a backyard. These are certainly viable benefits of adding a pergola to an outdoor space, however, this pergola is so much more!
When we met with the homeowners to discuss their vision, their objective was to get as much covered space as possible within their budget. They were also very specific about where they wanted the lines of the addition to go. This two-story home sits on a hilltop amid their 10 acre homestead with an ” old Texan” feel. The placement of the covered space was at the end of their spacious backyard pool. The design we were asked to create for them needed to provide versatile functionality and bring more than just aesthetics poolside too.
Our talented design team here at Archadeck of Austin are experts at translating the needs and desires of our clients’ into our outdoor living spaces. For this project, we designed a pergola with a metal roof. The interior of the pergola is spacious enough at 20′ x 15′ to facilitate a changing area covered in cedar slats at one end. In addition, the addition serves as the perfect spot for the homeowner’s to store pool supplies when not in use.
The pergola also serves as a place for respite and poolside viewing for the family. Plenty of electrical outlets, a large ceiling fan and outdoor lighting make this space right for outdoor living anytime, day or night!
The homeowners agree — their new pergola addition scores a hole in one for satisfaction!
If you would like to learn more about our cutting-edge outdoor living space designs, contact Archadeck of Austin today at (512) 259 – 8282 or email us at jim.odom@archadeck.net.
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
Archadeck of Austin brings the backyard fairy-tale to life with this custom poolside cabana in Austin, TX
An outdoor living structure is only as good as the amount of outdoor living you can get out of it. In the case of this cabana we recently constructed for homeowners in Austin, TX it is packed with all the functional amenities and space anyone could ever ask for in an outdoor area.
The cabana includes a gorgeous custom stone outdoor fireplace with built-in HDTV above the mantel. It also includes an outdoor kitchen area that has a grill with side burner, an icemaker, refrigerator, kegerator, and a Big Green Egg smoker. To make this cabana cool on those hot Texas afternoons we even included two ceiling fans.
Aesthetically this space has a pleasing combination of wood tones, custom stone and a floor built using CoolDeck concrete to match the pool surround. The interior ceiling of this beauty boasts soaring clerestory details that are big on Texas sized rustic charm. Watch as the storybook unfolds on this one-of-a-kind outdoor space.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sHYlSKtJ104
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
Archadeck of Austin can bring the fairy-tale to life for you too, by designing an outdoor space in your backyard that can make the ultimate outdoor living space a reality. Contact us today to learn more.
Call for a free consultation: (512) 259 – 8282
Austin@archadeck.net
The materials make the difference in this covered patio addition in Austin, TX
The material choices for this covered patio in Austin, TX make this space a true gem of dazzling design.
At first glance, when you look at this recently completed addition in Austin, TX you will assume it to be a typical covered patio under a roof that mimics the look of a large gazebo, but indeed it is so much more than that. At closer inspection you will see the covered patio has all the amenities that make an outdoor structure great. The space contains an outdoor kitchen, abundant dining and seating space and an outdoor fireplace. The materials used in this construction are some of the finest used in outdoor structure designs.
A limestone decorative arched key and custom mantel grace the facade of the patio’s outdoor fireplace.
On the outdoor fireplace we used a combination of brick that was chosen to match the brick used on the existing home and stunning white limestone. We used the limestone on the hearth and firebox that surround the fireplace and also added a decorative key made of limestone into the area right above the hearth. We also carried the use of limestone into the outdoor kitchen area where we used it to finish out the area on the side of the bar. Limestone is a solid choice for use in outdoor structures such as these, not only for its beauty but also for its density. Limestone is a dense sedimentary rock that is very hard. On this project we used white limestone, but limestone is available in a wide range of colors such as vanilla, beige, tan and darker hues like taupe and dark wood tones. Using limestone can also help bridge the gap between two separate design styles. Limestone is a transitional material and adding it in small touches or in a wide spectrum can help you mix two styles such as traditional and modern more easily.
We combined Limestone and granite counter tops to the outdoor kitchen to make the area unforgettable.
Along with using limestone around the side of the bar/serving area in the patio cover’s outdoor kitchen area, we also brought in granite for the counter-tops in a complimentary neutral color. Granite is another natural stone. Granite is quarried from natural granite beds in large deposits beneath the earth’s surface. It comes in a wide arrange of hues from pink to black and is perfect for use in kitchens because of its resistant to man-made mishaps that are common in a kitchen setting. Granite is alkali and acid resistant, boiling water, oils, and wines will not affect the granite and granite is easy to clean. The material also offers resiliency to cuts and scratches as well.
The floor of the patio cover is finished in beautiful 12 x 12 ceramic tiles which carry the theme of natural stone influence used in the entire design of the space. Tile is easy to clean and will withstand the test of time better than wood, and it also stays cooler in the warm Texas weather and helps keep the space cooler by a few degrees. The use of stone, combined with the ceiling fans we installed in the covered patio will equal more enjoyment on the patio on those sultry days.
As you descend off of the covered patio into the beautifully landscaped backyard you will also notice the clever use of high-quality composite decking on the steps. This will make for easy upkeep and low-maintenance in keeping this stairway looking like new for many years to come. We paired the rich hues used in the steps alongside a custom iron railing for added elegance.
The entire completed project exudes an elegance that ties in all the uses of various materials into an eclectic style. The Austin homeowners are ecstatic about all the outdoor living opportunities their space has opened up for them. They view the covered patio as an extension of living space, and look forward to enjoying all it has to offer in the years to come.
The mixed medias of limestone, ceramic, granite and brick make for an eclectic mix of texture and neutral harmony.
If you are envisioning a covered patio 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 : ( 512) 259 – 8282 email:Austin@archadeck.net
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
You can view more inspiring views of past covered patio projects by visiting our covered patio photo gallery located on our website.
An outdoor oasis in Austin that is seamless in design and function
This Austin covered pool-side cabana is a true backyard paradise.
A backyard can hold the key to the ultimate outdoor living enjoyment. A backyard begs to be improved upon, much like an artist’s canvas serves as a backdrop for creativity and visualization. These Austin homeowners took their backyard to a new level by adding a cabana-style covered patio with endless amenities.
When we originally met with these Austin, TX homeowners they had recently installed a new pool and had the area adjacent to the pool poured to accommodate a 15 x 15 pavilion. The homeowners had meticulously collected pictures of what they had in mind, but most of the photos were out of scale. We spoke with them about what aspects of the pavilion where the most important and transferred those into the custom design we prepared for them. They already had a nice grill but also wanted an outdoor fireplace, outdoor bar sitting area, outdoor kitchen with refrigerator, ice maker and sink. They also wanted a place to hang a big screen TV to enjoy within the cabana as well. The dilemma was to fit all the elements they wanted into the 15 x 15 design, which couldn’t fit within the space allotted. We strongly urged them to allow pushing the design out two more feet on two of the sides, which would incur the design components to cover all the newly extended concrete.
Column and kitchen details in covered patio
The clients had a stunning brick home that also had an existing wood deck, their pool had a decorative stone back and canterra beams. We designed the structure support with that part of the pool in mind and used cedar to pull the whole thing together. The home, the existing outdoor designs, and the new covered patio blended effortlessly as if they had all been built together. Since the home is located in a weather zone and receives a lot of hail, the roof was also upgraded with steel shingles and a crushed stone application so it looks like clay shingles and is durable and strong.
The interior of the cabana boasts custom cypress cabinets which are stair stepped 12″ and 18″. Ingenious design was used to accommodate the TV which required consideration of the placement of the TV as well as the DVD player and cable box, and all the accoutrements that surround the TV. Our cabinet builder customized the TV cabinet and made it deeper to hold all the electronics. We also installed recessed cans for additional lighting in the evening within the covered patio. The existing canterra column lights also aided in night-time illumination. For the bar/serving area we constructed a 6′ bar that can be accessed from either side. This area provides an easily integrated area into the design without becoming a full-blown area to take up too much space. We even installed stucco walls to aid in creating privacy from the neighbors that also hides the children’s playground. Each facet of this cabana’s design allows for flow and easy accessibility.
Entering the interior of this pavilion can make every day feel like a weekend.
The homeowners are ecstatic with the covered patio design. It has added in their outdoor, and living enjoyment as a whole. Now the family is directed outside to enjoy the area throughout the week instead of just on the weekends. It is the perfect place to have dinner, family movie night, and sleepovers for the kids. They like to spend their time in the covered patio in the evening as a family watching movies or just enjoying each others company by the outdoor fireplace.
This covered patio is the epitome of an outdoor oasis. This structure is the perfect place for this family to make memories that will last a lifetime, and have a lot of fun in the process! A true work of art in the realm of outdoor living structures.
Jim Odom Archadeck of Austin
Contact Archadeck of Austin to turn you backyard from basic to beautiful with our many functional and gorgeous outdoor living structure designs. Call for a free consultation: (512) 259 – 8282
Austin@archadeck.net
Imagine the room right outside your back door.
Outdoor spaces can serve the same functions as indoor spaces, only better.
Have you ever looked at your home and wished you could purchase adjoining acreage just to add on a playroom, living room other space to your existing home? Why not think about your ideal living space in a broader sense. The fact is there is a plethora of living enjoyment area right outside your back door that can be utilized more efficiently than an interior addition.
Living space doesn’t necessarily have to mean “interior” living space. There are a multitude of outdoor living structures that lend themselves to dining, entertaining, relaxing, and play. Today’s outdoor structure designs can be outfitted with all the same amenities an interior addition to your home can offer, and in some cases even more. Here are some ideas that will inspire you…
This cabana style covered patio has it all. An outdoor kitchen, fireplace and plenty of room to play.
The covered patio or porch
Covered patios keep you cool on hot days, and offer protection from the elements as well. They can be constructed from a vast array of materials such as wood, brick, stone and other hardscape material. Covered patios can be attached to your home or your deck, or can even be used as a freestanding structure within the landscape. Covered patios can also be situated beside your pool for a cabana style covered patio. Covered patios can be wired to accommodate ceilings fans, sound systems, computers, telephone, and even flat screen TV’s. Patio covers can include built-in fireplaces and even contain fully functional outdoor kitchens with all the fixings. These include refrigeration, sinks, food preparation areas, warming drawers, microwave, smokers, and grills. You name it, we can include it into the design of your patio cover. If you are looking for the perfect place to watch the game, and prepare a feast for your guests all while watching the kids play, the covered patio is an all-around best outdoor structure. An outdoor living room with mother nature as the backdrop.
Screen porches give you the pleasures of the outdoors without truly being outdoors.
The screen porch
The screened porch is another way to utilize all the amenities of an outdoor living room, minus the insects. Here in Texas, the warm temperatures will give you the benefit of year-round enjoyment of your screen porch. We also refer to these as sun porches and they make a perfect spot to relax and rewind. The beauty of a screened porch is that you get the pleasure of the outdoors without actually being outdoors. A screen porch offers an extension of outdoor as well as indoor living space.
Multi-structure outdoors living areas
We are starting to see a trend in multi-structure outdoor living areas. These are outdoor living areas that contain the works. These can include open patios, outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, pergolas, outdoor kitchens and decks all in one. This offers homeowners the ultimate in luxury and convenience, not to mention adding to your home’s value. Our multi-structure designs are planned to compliment each structure as it flows together. Instead of getting an outdoor room, you are actually getting an outdoor paradise where each outdoor room or area caters to a specific function but also harmonizes with the other elements within the entire design. Imagine having an area right outside your back door where you can dine, cook, read a book, roast marshmallows, listen to the crackle of the fire on those cool Texas nights, entertain, or just enjoy the fresh air.
Our combination outdoor structure in Riverplace has it all.
To learn more about how you can add functional living area to your backyard contact Archadeck of Austin today. Call for a free consultation: (512) 259 – 8282 Austin@archadeck.net
Jim Odom, Archadeck of Austin
See more awe-inspiring outdoor living rooms by visiting our outdoor spaces photo gallery located on our website. For more ideas on covered porches and covered patios you can visit our covered porch gallery, and our covered patio gallery, also located on our website.
Why a covered patio is as good as gold!
Over the last couple of years, we’ve seen a huge rise in the number of people looking for covered patios. But, today’s covered patios are nothing like the ones of old. Today’s patios are an outdoor room fully furnished with love seats, huge comfy chairs, outdoor rugs that look like indoors, fireplaces, outdoor televisions and all the accoutrements of an outdoor kitchen. The great thing is each covered patio is different. The fun part is deciding what custom elements to put into each covered patio.
Here’s how we start? We start with these 3 answers:
- What is the most important thing you want to do in your outdoor room?
- What are another 5 or 10 things you want to do in that room?
- Are there times you want to entertain other people in the covered patio? How often? How many people? What activities?
Austin tigerwood hardwood deck with covered porch
Question 1: What is the most important thing you want to do in your outdoor room?
Often we start by thinking about where our room will be located in our yard or how we’re going to furnish it. While this is incredibly important, the answers to those questions should be derived from how you want to live in your room. Do you want to spend weekend afternoons out there watching football with good friends and having a place to warm snacks and keep drinks cold right at your fingertips? Or, do you want to spend chilly nights in your outdoor room reading books and snuggling near the fire? In short, what is the top thing you want to do in your room?
Austin covered patio outdoor room cabana
Question 2: What are another 5 or 10 things you want to do in your new covered patio?
Question 2 is very important because it will drive what features, how large, and other details about your room such as whether it will be completely open or have 1-3 closed walls.
Question 3: What about entertaining other people?
Do you host the family reunion every year? Do you host poker night or book club night or other important gatherings on a fairly regular basis? You might want to consider these when designing your room.
When we say designing, you don’t need to do the architectural designing or any other up-front design. You simply tell us what you want and together we work to come up with a structural design that works for you. We review it together and make sure it’s exactly what you want before we start the job.
Then you can do the fun designing – the interior design of your exterior room!!
Give us a ring for a free consultation at (512) 259 – 8282 or send us an email at Austin@archadeck.net. Whether you’re ready to build now or in a few months, it’s never too early to start planning.
Austin Decks, Pergolas, Covered Patios, Porches, more 