Dovetail - SRM's Approach to Residential Interiors

Solution of the Week: Ipe Wood Deck

As we dive into the rainy season, here’s a small project that should brighten you up and remind you of the not yet forgotten splendors of summer. This home is a retreat, nestled in the heart of forest park and surrounded by lush foliage on all sides.

On our first visit, we realized that in addition to a problem of clunky detailing, the front of the house is the only spot that receives direct sun. Our clients wanted to alter their existing entry porch to better take advantage of that.

The first step was to trade the heavy wood trim for a lighter, more neutral palette that better complimented the house. We also got rid of the porch columns in favor of angled supports that opened up the space and allowed a much better view of the site. 

Another goal was to create an inviting entrance patio that features the gardens, and introduces rich, modern detail into the look of the house. We enlarged the porch’s footprint to include a direct connection with the street as well. The bridge enables the landscape to look and feel more intentional, and truly allowed its beauty to shine against the neutral backdrop of the house itself.

Finally, a contemporary look was accomplished through the use of rich colored Ipe wood on the deck and the horizontal wood detailing in contrast to exposed concrete landscape planters. The horizontality of the built improvements are in contrast with wildness of the plant life, but the warmth of the wood harmonizes the two elements, making them seem like the perfect pair.