The simplest part of the project, in terms of the various design challenges, was the replacement of the retaining walls and driveway. This involved removing the existing stone walls and installing Versa-Lock walls. The concrete work was split into two parts. First, the upper patio needed to be removed and enlarged to accommodate the new deck as well as installing the new concrete steps and sidewalk. Second, the driveway and front sidewalk needed to be replaced.

Building the new deck was a bit harder. First, we needed to set the footers for the three posts, which were integrated into the patio and driveway. For this we used a new system called "Bigfoot," which would accommodate the greater weight that the posts would be supporting.

The biggest problem to overcome was determining how to build a walkway from the newly installed door from the dining room to the main deck without restricting access to the garage below. To accomplish this, we cantilevered a 10" steel " I " beam from the house and then used a treated parlam between the " I " beam and a steel post beyond the driveway. This eliminated the need for a corner post, creating a safe and easy way for the clients to access their garage.

The upper portion of the deck was straightforward except for the combination of beams used to support it. To minimize the number of posts, we cantilevered the stair landing so we were able to use a standard beam. For the remaining section, we used a flush beam, not only to provide more head room but also to provide an unrestricted view from the patio.

The client's decision to use redwood for the deck and railing enhanced the look of the project now and that will continue for a long time.