A multi-level rear deck in Whitehall — stepped down the sloped lot in two tiers to match the grade and create distinct zones for dining, lounging, and a future hot tub.
The Ask
Work with the slope, not against it. Privacy from the neighbors. A framework ready for a hot tub without a rebuild later.
The Design
Two tiers of Ipe decking — an upper dining level off the kitchen, a lower lounge level at yard grade. A slatted privacy screen in matching Ipe. The lower tier’s joists and footers are pre-engineered for the weight of a 600-gallon hot tub, with the electrical conduit already run.
The Build
Five weeks. All Ipe pre-drilled and face-screwed — proper Ipe installation demands it. Footers stepped into bedrock on the lower tier. Lighting conduit run in the framing before decking went down.
The moment it came together.
Details, from every angle.
“A hillside deck designed to feel like the trees come right up to it. The geometry handles the slope; the railing gets out of the way of the view. Outdoor space the homeowners actually want to spend time in.”
