THE WATERS - BACK PATIO + BACK EXTERIOR
The Waters - Back Patio
When we bought this cabin, the space under the deck was pretty much unusable. They had a storage cabinet and an outdoor shed/closet for keeping water toys, but no sort of outdoor living.
They also had a firepit area, but I knew we could make that much better. Especially now since Tate is getting so good at pavers and landscaping. Fire areas are a must in lake rentals. It's a great place to gather and take in the views!
We hopped around from the top deck that needed love, to the bottom area that we were completely gutting, but we'll start with the top first.
After of the Deck!
Back Deck Sources
Solar Wall Lights
We kept the same footprint of the deck as well as the deck boards, but stained them to bring them to life and added a new railing and furniture. I used Pittsburgh Stain in a semi-transparent that I got in the color Dark Ash and had it mixed at Menards.
This little deck space speaks so loudly for itself!! I put together a REEL on Instagram showing more of the step by step process. We decided to add a privacy wall so it didn't feel like you were conversing with the neighbors. It created quite the cozy backdrop to this space and now gives the privacy needed.
Adding new furniture, solar lights, and outdoor pillows really made this deck feel like an extension of the living space. I can see a lot of coffee dates happening out here, and also a good book being read in one of these chairs.
I linked all the available sources all together above, if you are wondering where something is from!
We also wanted to add a little table to enjoy a lunch by the lake and easy access from the cabin. The huge oak trees that surround this property add the perfect shade so we didn't even need to put an umbrella on the table.
One change we did make beside the railing was to widen these steps. The old steps were only 2 1/2' feet wide and left a huge opening next to the cabin. When Ryan extended these steps all the way to the cabin it was a game changer! So much easier to access the lake and back patio now.
This light pole makes me so happy and adds the cutest little touch of character! I love that it was here and just added a new light on top to update it.
Onto the bottom patio area
The backyard had so much work to do that we did it in phases. We were really trying to save the sidewalk but there was just too many tripping hazards to we ultimately decided to hire that out and have a new sidewalk to the lake put in.
And Tate got started leveling out under the deck so we could utilize all of that space. You can see here the boys also cut out he cement block and added two larger windows, a huge improvement for the basement!
This was an awesome project for Tate to start out his business and tackle. He crushed it and we couldn't be prouder and happier with the outcome!!
It is so satisfying to wash the pavers be cut in the curved line!! This alone added so much character to the outdoor living space!
Tate did a timelapse of laying the pavers! So fun to watch and landscaping it really such an art with so much statigy that goes into it!
This is the filler we got that goes in between the rocks! We just brushed it over and it falls right into place.
After all of the bottom big work was done, Ryan moved onto the top and finished the deck area to complete everything!
After of the Patio!
I had a vision for this outdoor space to be another gathering place for guests! The back faces the lake and has the prettiest sunrises!!
We added a slatted black privacy wall on the bottom level with some faux plants to create privacy underneath as well.
These loungers are perfect for moving around the yard, if guests want to bring them closer to the water and suntan or next to the firepit. A great moveable seating option!
Another huge thing Ryan did was to tin underneath the deck to waterproof it. It was a labor of love, but now there will be no water dripping underneath you and you can sit at this table and enjoy a meal or play cards, even if the weather isnt cooperating.
I fell in love with this stunning SOLAR, yes solar chandelier!!! Is that not amazing. I knew I had to have that down in this dining area!
Watch my REEL to get the video experience of down here!
It's beyond exciting when you see your vision come to life!
The hanging chairs were a must and I already know they will be a major fan favorite!
Again, everything is linked below!!
Every time I come back here I can't help but smile!! It makes my heart so happy to see how far this place has come and what it turned into! We are so excited for you guys to be able to experience it so soon!!
Back Patio Sources
