At Cascade Fence and Deck, we’ve learned that the most rewarding projects often come from the smallest spaces. When you don’t have a huge backyard or endless square footage, every inch has to be intentional and creative.
We’ve found that in the Pacific Northwest space can be tricky. Between sloped yards, towering evergreens, and plenty of rain, finding room for an outdoor deck can be tough. But with a thoughtful plan and the right materials, even a compact space can become your favorite place to unwind. In the video and article below we go over how we approached this constrained project.
Designing for How You Use Your Space
When we first met Sharon and David, their deck was showing the classic signs of Pacific Northwest weather, warped wood, constant leaf buildup, and slippery boards from years of rain and shade. They were looking for a replacement, but still there wasn’t much space to work with.
So instead of expanding their footprint, we focused on how they wanted to live outdoors. We asked:
Where do you spend most of your time?
Do you entertain guests, or prefer quiet mornings with coffee?
How do you want the space to feel, open, cozy, or private?
From there, we designed a multi-level deck that was focused on function and a clean feel.
Multi-Level Living
The new layout features two main zones:
Upper Level: This is where Sharon and David enjoy outdoor meals with a table and umbrella cover. We added a privacy screen for (you’d never expect it) privacy, turning a small space into a peaceful dining area.
Lower Level: Below, there’s a shaded lounge area that stays cool in the summer. A hanging swing was placed to enjoy the trees and scenery, and the surrounding trees now feel like a natural canopy instead of a nuisance.
We felt this approach gave their yard definition and personality while keeping it clean, calm, and easy to maintain.
Built for the Pacific Northwest Climate
Because their original wood deck struggled with constant moisture, we recommended Tundra Deckorators® Voyage decking, a composite material that resists warping and rot because of its mineral based composite. We also added Picket ALX railing, simple, durable, and perfect for blending with the forest backdrop.
These materials mean Sharon and David can spend less time maintaining their deck and more time actually enjoying it.
Why Small Decks Can Be the Most Fulfilling Projects
We love big builds, but small decks often feel the most personal. There’s something incredibly satisfying about crafting a space that fits just right, no wasted corners, no unused areas. When you’re designing for a smaller footprint, every design choice matters, and that’s what makes it special.