Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Backyard Makeover.

I'm back! It's been a busy week but a little blog break was just what I needed to recharge. The sun was shining here all of the long weekend so it was nice to spend so much time outside.

I have to give credit to Stephane, he worked relentlessly for the last while, getting the yard prepared and building the new deck. The yard is rather large and I always felt that it was unused space. There was a tree planted smack in the middle so we decided to integrate it in to the design of the deck.

He started by building a new deck at the back door. The old one was tiny and rotten. You can read more about that part here. Next up, he dug out the grass and leveled the area in preparation for the gravel base.


Then, we had 4 tonnes of gravel delivered and we filled the area with gravel. Many trips with the wheelbarrow! Here is me spreading it all out.




Once leveled, he rented a tamper and compacted the gravel. Apparently this was the funnest part:) Then he built the frame for the deck and the stairs leading to the smaller deck.


The long part was screwing in all the decking boards.




Here is where we are at now. Bear in mind that there is still lots of work to do. We were just happy to be able to eat supper outside this weekend and sit with a few drop in visitors. It's been lovely!
Still on the to-do list:

Fill the gravel area with pea stone
Finish top deck
Landscape around the deck
Outdoor planters
Figure out the walkway



Did you spot Beaufort in the last photo? My favorite part is the lights we hung in the tree. It's pretty dreamy at night! 

Stay tuned for more progress over the coming weeks!

22 comments:

  1. Looks fantastic! I love how you built around the tree:)
    Shellilee

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  2. the decking looks amazing!!! great job, jane!

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  3. I love the lights in the tree - where did you find them?

    Good job on the deck! :)

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  4. Beautiful Jane. Ilove that yellow stool. It's such a fun addition to the outdoor space

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  5. Wow, so much work but it looks awesome! I love how you incorporated the tree into the design (and the lights are gorgeous). Can't wait to follow along with your progress - though I've moved my fair share of pea stone and I don't envy you that part ;)

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  6. What a transformation. Looks incredibly different, you'll never want to eat inside again!
    Paul

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  7. Wow that is really nice! I would love to have something like that in my backyard! I love having dinner outside :)

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  8. Love how it all connects! The lighting is a really nice touch. Be sure to share your project on our Outdoor Extravaganza!
    http://satoridesignforliving.com/2012/04/Join-Our-Upcoming-Outdoor-Link-Parties/

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  9. Oh wow, that is a makeover! And a really great one, too. I love what you've done...

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  10. I love it! Working with the tree turned out amazing. The lights in the tree and the shade that it brings will be so beautiful!! Can I come over?? :)

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  11. I love it! The lighting is the best part-- so charming :)

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  12. OMG, it is amazing!! Congrats on all of the hard work!

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  13. Oh, I am envious. How I would love a deck to wrap around a tree! Nicely done you two!

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  14. Wow, what a deck! It looks incredible...and I looooove the lights

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  15. This will be lovely when you're done- it's already looking great. I love how Stephane has built around the tree- have always been partial to that look, whether it a raised deck or even buildings circumventing a large tree-but seeing those lights, how could you not incorporate the tree into your outdoor entertainment area? Too perfect!

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  16. Love it Jane!! CANNOT wait to spend time on your deck (yes, I'll be over ;) xo

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  17. It's looking great! I love how you bridged the way over to your tree. Can't wait to see it all finished up.

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  18. hey jane..i'm in canada too and i have been looking for those lights - we had them for our wedding and they have "walked" away. where did you get them? i originally got mine at target in seattle but now on the east coast. can you reveal your source? thanks!! love your designs by the way!

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  19. Looks like a great setting for a meal and some drinks with friends!
    thanks fo sharing
    Maureen

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  20. This project is brilliant! The garden furniture have helped a lot in bringing out the best in your exterior space.

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Love hearing from you! Thanks so much :)