Mount Seymour Outdoor Retreat
A durable, multi-level coastal backyard designed for entertaining and an active lifestyle.
Navigating the challenges of Deep Cove
When it comes to outdoor living, Deep Cove offers a few unique challenges. The area receives twice as much rainfall as Vancouver, and traditional outdoor materials deteriorate rapidly! The reality hit quickly for these Mount Seymour homeowners: their recently-installed cedar deck, recommended by their home builder, was already showing signs of wear.
Cedar requires constant maintenance, especially for structures supporting furniture and other heavy items. While we had advised durable composite decking from the outset, the idea of replacing a new deck understandably felt difficult to justify. The property also had significant elevation changes, requiring multiple retaining walls to create usable and safe zones.
Building within limits, for longevity
Budget constraints required careful material decisions. Initially designed with concrete retaining walls, the project shifted toward Allan blocks and Texada concrete pavers—solutions that were cost-effective without sacrificing aesthetics or functionality. These materials provided structural integrity and a clean, modern appearance suited to the challenging, multi-tiered landscape.
Created for a coastal outdoor lifestyle
To ensure the space served the family’s active, waterfront lifestyle, we incorporated several tailored features:
- A hot tub strategically positioned to maximize stunning views.
- A cozy outdoor lounge area anchored by a fireplace.
- A welcoming dining zone for effortless entertaining.
- A custom-built outdoor shower; ideal after kayaking.
Smart waterproofed storage compartments beneath the deck offered accessible, weather-proof kayak storage, cleverly making use of every inch of available space
Efficient execution at every level
Unlike many Deep Cove properties, this site’s great accessibility allowed our crew to smoothly manage complex excavation, drainage installation, and retaining wall construction. Despite material adjustments driven by budget and other challenges, thoughtful planning and careful execution resulted in a highly functional, low-maintenance coastal retreat built specifically to withstand Deep Cove’s harsh weather conditions.
Today, these homeowners enjoy a durable, beautiful, and exceptionally practical outdoor space that perfectly matches their lifestyle and the local environment. This project is a perfect example of the effectiveness of thoughtful, purpose-driven design and how it can transform a challenging site into a functional and appealing outdoor escape.
Ready to build your dream backyard?
Ready to build your dream backyard?
