Deck and Patio Combination Creates Ideal Backyard Sanctuary

The previous deck on this Martinez, Calif., house was simple and hot with tremendous sun exposure. After Sue Oda Landscape Architect’s redesign, the multi-level deck includes a covered relaxing bench space, a soaking area with a hot tub, and a flagstone patio for a reading nook.

With clients interested in taking advantage of their backyard nature setting, Sue Oda, principal at the firm, intended to create a space where the deck pulled them outside to enjoy the native oak trees that border the property. On the upper portion of the deck, she implemented built-in benches that surround a central gas fire table.

Above the space, she designed a pergola to shield the outdoor living room from the harsh California sun during the day and provided dimming lights on the structure for various activities at night.

“It’s a kind of deck that wants you to be out there,” Oda says.

On the left side, a set of stairs leads down to a more private space with a circular hot tub. Oda explains she separated the swimming feature from the rest of the space because the hot tub needed a more private, but also accessible, area. Built-in planters frame the hot tub with plants aiming to attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and the occasional deer.