This deck project is in partnership with Trex and Lowe’s
Our backyard was a major selling point when we bought our home three years ago, so we were thrilled to finally create an inviting deck where friends and family can gather. Trex composite decking appealed to us because, unlike wood, it won’t crack, stain, or splinter and it requires very little maintenance. That low-maintenance quality was a big factor—we want to enjoy our home and yard, not spend all our time maintaining them.
Even when you design a deck on paper and visualize its features, nothing compares to seeing it in person. A new deck behaves like an extra room, expanding your livable space. Beyond increasing your home’s value, it improves daily life, which is the true win of any renovation.
We began with an old cracked concrete patio. It wasn’t the worst condition, but it wasn’t inspiring either—definitely ready for an update.
A great advantage of our project was that we could leave the existing patio in place. I appreciate simplification, so having the deck framing built directly over the concrete made the whole project simpler and faster.
Because neither my husband nor I are skilled with heavy construction, we hired a Lowe’s Project Specialist Exterior (PSE) to build the deck. Working with a qualified contractor through Lowe’s removed a lot of the usual stress of finding reliable installers. For anyone planning a similar project, using a service that connects you to experienced professionals is a huge benefit.
One of my typical worries with home improvements is finding trustworthy contractors who will bring your vision to life. Being able to schedule and coordinate a qualified team through Lowe’s made the process much easier and more reassuring.
The deck was built during winter, which is why the Japanese Maple nearby had no leaves in the photos. Each day I watched the progress and pictured the space filled with furniture and plants.
We chose Trex Enhance in the color Saddle, an in-stock option at Lowe’s. There are many color options available, so even if you think you know what you want, bring samples home to see how light, foliage, and the house’s exterior affect the final look. The warm wood tone of Saddle gave our deck a cozy, organic feel that complements our Northwest surroundings and creates a harmonious connection with neighboring homes.
We were excited to add black railings around the deck. Even though the deck sits relatively low, the railings make the area feel cozier and help define furniture placement. We chose Trex Enhance railings in Charcoal Black for a classic look that contrasts nicely with our white house while letting the garden foliage remain the visual focus.
The architectural detail and diagonal pattern of the railings give the deck a refined, custom appearance. Another design feature I love is the diagonal layout of the deck boards with a perimeter border. That diagonal orientation adds visual movement and makes the deck feel unique and thoughtfully designed.
That sense of movement is why we also used a diagonal herringbone pattern for tile in our kitchen—the diagonal detail brings energy and interest to a space.
Once the deck was in place, the backyard felt transformed. The deck and railings created an outdoor gathering space that instantly made the yard more inviting and purposeful.
We’re currently furnishing the deck and I look forward to sharing the full reveal. Lowe’s offers a range of outdoor furniture and decor that fit our vision for a comfortable, stylish space. I’ll share the finished look when everything is in place.
Our dogs adapted quickly—Jack was obsessed with the deck from the moment he could walk on it and enjoys leaping from the deck to the grass. Lily likes to sit out in the yard and relax; she’s eagerly awaiting the arrival of comfortable furniture so she can lounge in style.
Stay tuned for the final reveal. I’m excited to invite you to a virtual gathering on the finished deck.
Leave a comment to tell me what you’d bring to our virtual deck party. I’ll select five commenters at random to receive a copy of my book Simple Gatherings.
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Decking and railing for this project were provided by Trex. Installation and furnishings were provided by Lowe’s.