This deck project is in partnership with Trex and Lowe’s
Our backyard was a major reason we bought this house three years ago, so we were thrilled to finally create an inviting deck where friends and family can gather. If you haven’t used Trex before, it’s a composite decking material that, unlike wood, won’t crack, stain, or splinter. It’s low maintenance, which mattered a lot to me — I want to enjoy my home and yard, not constantly tend to them.
Even when you plan the deck on paper and visualize the features, seeing it in person is when the project truly comes alive. A well-designed deck becomes an extra living space, extending how you use your home. It’s an investment that both adds value and enhances everyday life.
We started with an old, cracked concrete patio. It wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t inspiring either — it was ready for an update.
One of the nicest parts of this project was that we could leave the existing patio in place. I’m all for simplifying projects where possible, so having the deck framing built directly over the concrete made the process much easier.
Since neither my husband nor I are skilled with large construction projects, hiring a Lowe’s Project Specialist for exterior work was a relief. Coordinating a qualified, experienced installer through Lowe’s removed the stress of searching for a trustworthy contractor.
Having the installation handled made the entire experience smoother. If you’re planning a deck, consider using a reliable scheduling service so you can match with skilled professionals who understand your vision.
Our deck was built through the winter (hence the bare Japanese maple in the photos). Each day we watched progress and imagined the space filled with furniture and plants.
We chose Trex in the color Saddle, an in-stock option at Lowe’s. There are many color choices, so bring samples home before deciding — natural light and surrounding greenery can change how a color looks. We found Saddle’s warm wood tone created a cozy, organic feel that suits our Northwest setting.
We were also excited to add black railings around the deck. Even though our deck isn’t very high, the railings give the area a cozier, more defined feel and help frame furniture placement. Our railings are Trex Enhance in Charcoal Black — a classic look that contrasts nicely with a white house while keeping focus on the yard’s greenery.
The diagonal layout of the decking boards, along with a perimeter border, makes the deck feel custom and unique. Diagonal patterns introduce a subtle sense of movement that draws the eye and adds architectural interest.
That same idea — using diagonal patterns to create visual movement — led us to lay tile in a diagonal herringbone pattern in our kitchen as well.
When the deck was finished, the whole backyard felt refreshed. The new structure created an inviting outdoor living area and made the yard feel like a destination for relaxing and entertaining.
We’re still arranging furniture and decor, and I look forward to sharing the final reveal. There are many great outdoor furnishings and accessories available to complete the look, and we’ve been pulling together ideas to shape the space.
As for the dogs, Jack took to the deck immediately — he loves running from the deck to the grass and treats it like his personal playground. Lily prefers to lounge in the yard, enjoying the breeze while she waits for the furniture to be set up.
Stay tuned for the full furnished reveal. I can’t wait to invite you to our first virtual gathering on the new deck.
Leave a comment to tell me what you’d bring to the (virtual) deck party — I’ll randomly give away a few copies of my book Simple Gatherings to commenters.
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Decking and railing for this project were provided by Trex. Installation and furnishings were provided by Lowe’s.