Inspirational Gallery

Yes. These features are commonly added and can significantly change how the space looks, feels, and is used.

Lighting can be incorporated in many ways, including stair lighting, post cap lights, ceiling fixtures, accent lighting, and task lighting. Good lighting improves safety, extends usability into the evening, and helps the space feel warm and inviting rather than unfinished or harsh.

Heaters are most commonly added to porches, especially 3-season porches, to extend comfort into cooler spring and fall weather. Heater placement and type depend on ceiling height, enclosure type, and how the space will be used.

Fireplaces are most often added to 4-season porches. They create a strong focal point and make the space feel more like a true extension of the home. Depending on homeowner preferences, fireplaces can be electric or gas.

Our role is to help homeowners think through which features will actually improve how they use the space, rather than adding options just because they are available.

Underdecking refers to a system installed beneath an elevated deck that captures and diverts water away from the area below.

Without an underdecking system, rain and snow melt pass through the deck boards, making the space underneath unusable during wet weather. An underdecking system collects that water and directs it toward gutters or drains so the area below stays dry.

This creates the opportunity to use the space below the deck for storage, seating, or even a finished patio area, depending on the design.

Yes, as long as the deck is elevated enough to allow for an underdecking system.

By installing a drainage system beneath the deck boards, we can create a dry area below that is protected from rain and snow. From there, the space can remain open or be finished further depending on how you plan to use it.

Planning for a dry-under-deck area early in the design process helps ensure proper drainage, ceiling height, and overall functionality.

In many cases, yes.

If the deck above has enough height and is properly structured, the area below can be converted into a screened space. This typically involves installing an underdecking system first to keep the area dry, followed by screens and any desired finishes.

Feasibility depends on deck height, structure, and layout. We evaluate these factors during the design process and explain what modifications may be required to make the space work well.

We work with a curated group of manufacturers based on performance, durability, and long-term reliability in Minnesota’s climate.

• For composite decking, our primary preference is TimberTech, though we also regularly install Trex depending on the project and homeowner preferences.
• For PVC decking, our preference is Wolf. We also install AZEK when it is the right fit for the design and performance requirements of the project.
• For aluminum railing systems, we primarily use S.T.A.R. railing and also install Westbury. Both offer clean lines, strength, and long-term durability.
• For screened porches, we use Dura-Screen fixed and motorized screen systems. These screens are custom made to order for each opening and are designed to be extremely durable and hold up well to everyday use and weather.
• For 3-season porches, we primarily use porch window systems from Porch Windows Direct, which are designed specifically for porch applications and are manufactured right here in the Twin Cities.
• For porch heating, we typically install Infratech infrared heaters, which provide comfortable, efficient heat and work well in porch environments.

While we have preferred manufacturers, we are not locked into a single brand. Our role is to help homeowners choose products that match their goals, budget, and maintenance expectations while maintaining a consistent quality standard across every project.