When Lori and Martin purchased their home, they knew they were taking on a major remodel. They focused first on the interior, natural wood finishes, updated spaces, and a fresh, modern feel throughout. The last piece to tie everything together was the deck.
Nick, one of our designers here at Cascade Fence and Deck, shared in his recent interview, this project wasn’t just about replacing old boards. It was about creating a safe, welcoming outdoor space that matched the home’s remodel and made a strong impression from every angle, including the public walking path directly behind the property.
We’ll break down the exact thought process that went into designing this deck, if you prefer to watch Nick himself walk through this project you can watch the video below!
The Original Deck
The original deck was the same age as the home. Over time, it had developed:
Worn and deteriorating decking boards
Safety concerns in multiple areas
An old hot tub cutout that needed to be patched
An outdated underdeck space
Structurally and visually, it was time for a full replacement.
Lori and Martin had already experienced some difficult contractor situations during their interior remodel. So one of the biggest priorities for them was finding a team they could trust to execute the project with clear communication and attention to detail.
That’s where we came in.
Maintaining the Layout
One of the unique aspects of this project is that the homeowners liked the existing layout. With multiple levels and strong indoor outdoor flow, the footprint worked well.
Instead of redesigning everything from scratch, we focused on:
Keeping the overall layout similar
Refining the details
Upgrading materials
Enhancing the overall aesthetic
With a large deck like this, sometimes the biggest impact comes from upgrading the finishes and improving functionality rather than changing the entire structure.
Composite Decking Colors
Lori and Martin knew they wanted composite decking from the start. Low maintenance and long-term durability were key.
We ultimately went with Deckorators® composite decking. Since Lori has a strong background in color choosing the right color family was extremely important. The deck needed to:
Complement the home’s modern black and white exterior
Tie in with the natural wood tones used inside
Work with the surrounding greenery
Color coordination wasn’t an afterthought, it was a central part of the design process.
Cable Railing and Post Placement
Because the deck faces a public walking path, presentation mattered. The railing system had to feel open, modern, and refined.
We installed Deckorators cable railing to maintain clean sightlines and a contemporary look. One of the main design conversations centered around post placement:
Standard posts every four feet
Or a decorator style approach with mid supports to reduce visible posts
Using our 3D rendering software, we were able to show exact post placement so Lori could visualize how it would look before installation.
Blending Composite and Natural Wood
One of the standout design features on this project is the horizontal cedar skirting.
It’s not always common to mix composite decking with natural wood elements, but when done thoughtfully, it creates a beautiful transition.
In this case:
The composite decking delivers durability and low maintenance.
The horizontal cedar skirting adds warmth and texture.
The wood helps bridge the gap between the deck and the lush landscaping below.
With greenery coming right up to the base of the deck, the cedar skirting creates a natural transition from landscape to structure. The result is modern, but still warm and connected to its environment.
Underdeck Waterproofing
The upper level deck extends over a lower outdoor space. The original deck had a form of waterproofing that allowed the area underneath to stay usable.
Maintaining that functionality was important.
We installed a gray Zip-Up underdeck drainage system, which:
Keeps the lower area dry year round
Creates a more finished, defined ceiling underneath
Blends seamlessly with the overall color scheme
From a distance, it integrates cleanly into the design. From below, it provides a polished and practical solution.
What Not to Change
At one point, we considered modifying an upper “princess balcony” area above the kitchen. The idea was to remove a wall and replace it with railing.
After evaluating the complexity and structural considerations, the homeowners decided it made more sense to reinforce and refresh that section rather than fully redesign it.
Sometimes the best design decision isn’t adding more, it’s knowing when to keep certain elements as their own separate feature.
Designed for Hosting
With multiple levels and distinct seating areas, this deck was clearly built for gathering.
Now Lori and Martin have:
Dedicated hosting space for friends and family
A safe and comfortable outdoor retreat
A deck that enhances both curb appeal and pathway visibility
As Nick put it, this was the final piece of their remodel. With the interior complete and the deck finished, their home finally feels whole.
Tips for Homeowners Planning a Deck Remodel
Based on this project, here are a few key takeaways we always share with our clients:
1. Think About How You’ll Actually Use the Space
Before rebuilding “like for like,” consider:
Will you use the lower level?
Do you need waterproofing?
Are you planning to host frequently?
Your investment should match your real life usage, not just replicate what was there before.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Mix Materials
When done intentionally, blending composite decking with natural wood accents can:
Soften modern designs
Create visual transitions
Connect your deck to surrounding landscaping
In the right setting, this combination looks incredible.
3. Use Visual Tools to Finalize Details
For projects with detailed elements like cable railing post spacing, 3D renderings can make a huge difference. Being able to see exact placement helps eliminate guesswork and build confidence in your final decisions.
The Finished Result
This multi level deck now feels:
Clean
Modern
Warm
Functional
Complete
Most importantly, it reflects the homeowners’ vision.
At Cascade Fence and Deck, we love working with folks who care about the details. When homeowners bring thoughtful input and we combine that with our experience and craftsmanship, the end result speaks for itself.