The deck that’s been over 2 years in the making is finally complete!!! I’m still pinching myself that this project is now part of my real, everyday life and that it’s a space i’ll get to enjoy for many years to come!

But, before I get to the full reveal, you know I have to back things up a bit! The entire idea of this outdoor space came from my love and best friends, Shavonda Gardner. While undertaking our primary bedroom and bathroom renovation, she had the idea to replace our one existing window with French doors that could lead out to a future patio. We loved the idea and had the doors installed in October 2019.

The doors went in, but it would be a full year and 10 months before the patio/deck would come to fruition!

I called on landscape architect, Patrick Nelius, of Solo Landscape to help us with a plan for our neglected front and backyard landscapes. While walking our property, I mentioned that we wanted to add a deck/patio off our bedroom and he explained that his company could help with that! When coming up with our landscape plans, he incorporated a design for the deck and I instantly fell in love!

Timing didn’t work out for Solo Landscape to do the install, so it was built by another small crew who came recommended by a friend (sorry, I won’t be providing their info as now they are booked beyond even taking on my future projects! insert crying face emoji!

Here’s a photo rundown of how it came together! And if you want the video version, just check out my DECK highlight on Instagram!

Once the build was completed, I decided to have it finished with paint and stain. I loved the look of the pergola, but wanted it to feel more like it were a part of the house, so I had it painted the same color of our home’s exterior, Behr Broadway. It’s a true black, but can totally pick up colors around it. For example, on most days in warmer months, the front of our home looks green due to all of the grass of our yard. I actually love that about it.

When it came time for the actual deck color, I wanted something that closely resembled our walnut colored floors inside our home. It only took three trips to Home Depot, but I finally found the perfect match.

The build team first sanded the deck down to remove any stains or sticker residue and then gave the entire deck a wash and scrub. They then brushed on the stain and one coat was all it needed.

The color was perfect!

Once the deck was built and finished, it was time to think about furniture! As life would have it, the amazing team at Sunbrella reached out to me to see if I had any projects in the works where I could use their products! I literally JUMPED at the opportunity!

They gave me a ton of leeway regarding creative control and product selection, so I opted for my favorite retailer, CB2! They’re the epitome of modern luxury with big nods to mid century modern design. For the lounge area of the deck, I chose two Naya Cast Iron and Teak Right Arm Loveseats to make an L-shaped sectional and two Pavillion Lounge Chairs with charcoal cushions to contrast again the white sectional. I rounded out the seating group with the Black Terrazzo Coffee Table and a ceramic garden stool as a side table and a few seagrass ottomans for extra seating.

The combination of black, white and wood and the varied textures and materials totally elevate the space beyond your basic outdoor set up. Then, add in the comfort, durability, fade-resistance and ease of cleaning of Sunbrella and it’s a whole situation that I’m damn proud of to call mine!

The dining side of the deck is just as good! The table (no longer available) and Pavilion Armless Dining Chairs are also from CB2. I love how the white pops against the moody backdrop of the house!

I’ve already had the besties over for some snack, wine and relaxation and it was such an amazing time! The set up was perfect for conversation and views of our newly landscaped back yard!

So, if you’re looking for me at any point this summer…you now know where I’ll be!!!

Oh…and if you’re reading this…just know there’s more to come! Here’s a little sneak peek!

Stay tuned! There will be a big announcement SOON! In the meantime, shop the deck looks below!