Skip to main content
Mom's Design Build

2 min read

Before and After: An Ordinary Deck Becomes A Cozy Porch

Screened porch with stone corner fireplace, cedar ceiling, wicker seating and built-in grill in Minnesota - Mom's Design Build
Mom's Design Build

By Mom’s Design Build Team

May 31, 2019

The original deck that the home builder installed felt like a missed opportunity. They insisted the structure should be incorporated into the design and that the new architecture would enhanced their home. It was a shame because they couldn’t escape the dreadful mosquitos and weren’t able to use this space year-round. They wanted a versatile space that they could entertainment year-round, grill, and lounge next to a fireplace.

The clients’ goals are to create a three-season porch that savors the scenic view, enjoy year-round grilling, bug-free space, and either fresh air or cozy fireplace warmth.

3D rendering of a screened porch with corner stone fireplace, built-in bench seating and outdoor grill - Mom's Design Build
Design Development
Screened porch with stone fireplace, cushioned window bench, wicker seating and dining nook overlooking trees at sunset - Mom's Design Build

The perfect space for open-air entertaining that’s artfully sheltered from the elements.

Elevated wood deck with railing on a brick home before renovation, with grill and posts below - Mom's Design Build
Before
Stone and brick home at dusk with lit screened porch above a covered bar, patio and pool with diving board - Mom's Design Build
After

FUNCTIONAL IMPROVEMENTS

  • Gas fireplace keeps the space comfortable when outdoor temperature is above zero.
  • Built-in gas grill features vented exhaust hood for convenient year-round grilling with windows closed.
  • Booth provides pool or lake-views eating for meals and board games.
  • Windows on screened Sunspace enclosure with EZporch products open from top and bottom for maximum ventilation.
  • Converting the deck to a porch created a dry space for a tuck-under outdoor kitchen and pool bar below
Architectural rendering of a new gabled screened porch addition with cedar beams and dimensions - Mom's Design Build
Brick home with an elevated wood deck over a concrete patio beside an inground pool before renovation - Mom's Design Build
Before
Aerial view of brick home with new porch addition, inground pool, hot tub and landscaped backyard - Mom's Design Build

New porch complements the original architecture.

AESTHETIC ENHANCEMENTS

  • Porch’s prominent glass gable wall matches the lines of the house gables and repeats stone accents and copper roofline from the front of the house.
  • Glass gable wall and Sunspace enclosure below embrace the scenic view and stream natural light into the sheltered space within.
  • Corner gas fireplace with real stone façade creates focal point from inside house without blocking view of tree line and lake below.
  • Soaring, whitewashed cedar ceiling reflects light to brighten the space below and complement the brick and stonework.

INNOVATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING

  • Sunspace enclosure and thin stone veneer limit weight so original deck structure and decking could be preserved.
  • Large vented hood on porch permits safe, year-round grilling with windows closed.
  • Short copper shed roof shelters the outdoor kitchen and bar below.
  • Booth maintains order and maximizes seating for family meals and board games.
Covered outdoor bar with stone base and fire table overlooking a patio and pool at dusk - Mom's Design Build

New porch complements the original architecture.

Bare concrete patio beneath an old wood deck beside the pool and lawn before renovation - Mom's Design Build
Before
Stone and brick home at dusk with lit screened porch above a covered bar, patio and pool with diving board - Mom's Design Build
After
Covered patio with orange cushioned seating, fire table, lantern lights and outdoor kitchen bar beside pool - Mom's Design Build

Poolside bar creates an enchanting outdoor living space.

Covered outdoor kitchen with stone bar, grill, fire table and orange sofas under a wood plank ceiling - Mom's Design Build

What do you think of this beautiful space? Click below to schedule an appointment and let our award winning designers transform your outdoor living space!

CONTACT US

Mom’s Design Build · Minneapolis, MN

All Stories

The Mom’s List

Design Stories, Delivered

Trends, project reveals, and seasonal tips from Minnesota’s most award-winning design-build team.