Backyard Design Makeover in Clifton, VA

Posted in: Deck Design, design exercise, design blog

James Moylan

Friday, February 03, 2017

night-panorama-a.jpg

Backyard Design Breakdown in Clifton, VA

A stunning backyard design transformation shows what's possible in Fairfax County and throughout Northern Virginia. Homeowners across the DMV—from Montgomery County to Arlington—are investing in premium outdoor living spaces like screened porches, custom decks, and outdoor kitchens. This Clifton project exemplifies how thoughtful design elevates everyday entertaining and extends your home's usable square footage year-round.

This is an in-depth look at one such design out of our own backyard, erected in Clifton, Virginia and completed in 2016. It was developed closely with the homeowners, who were unsatisfied with the ailing state of their existing deck and patio. The ultimate project consisted of several parts: a chic round portico, an illuminating Trex lighting network, and even a technology-laden pavilion complete with motorized retractable porch screens. Let's dive in!

Effective Outdoor Kitchen Design Case Study

Posted in: kitchen, outdoor living, outdoor kitchens, outdoor living spaces, outdoor kitchen cabinets, Danver Stainless Outdoor Kitchens, outdoor accessories

James Moylan

Monday, January 30, 2017

outdoor kitchen with flagstone in Fairfax County, Virginia

Outdoor Kitchen Design in Virginia: Premium Case Study

This Fairfax County outdoor kitchen transforms backyard entertaining into a year-round lifestyle. Modern outdoor kitchens have evolved from simple grilling stations into fully functional extensions of the home, featuring built-in appliances, durable materials, and integrated design. This case study demonstrates how thoughtful planning and premium materials create an outdoor kitchen that seamlessly connects to both the home and landscape.

How to Install Motorized Retractable Screens

Posted in: retractable screen porch, Motorized Porch Screens, Motorized Outdoor Screening Systems, Automatic Porch Screens

James Moylan

Monday, January 30, 2017

screened-in patio in Fairfax County, Virginia with Infratech heaters and motorized retractable Phantom screens (4).jpg

Install Motorized Retractable Screens in MD & VA

Motorized retractable screens transform your porch by combining weather protection with unobstructed views—all at the touch of a button. Whether you're in Montgomery County, MD or Fairfax County, VA, these systems let homeowners seamlessly transition between open and enclosed outdoor living. We'll walk you through the installation process so you can maximize your screened porch investment.

How to Prepare for a Flagstone Patio in 2017

Posted in: patio design, patio questions, how to build a patio, patio tips

James Moylan

Monday, January 30, 2017

curved flagstone patio, recessed hot tub, and Phantom retractable screened potio at night Clifton, VA (1).jpg

How to Build a Flagstone Patio in Maryland & Virginia

2017 Guide to Building a Round Portico in the DMV

Posted in: porch topics, Portico

James Moylan

Monday, January 30, 2017

custom front walkway with flagstone and brick pavers at night with outdoor lighting package (1).jpg

Build a Round Portico in Maryland & Virginia

A round portico adds timeless elegance to any home entrance—and it's achievable in Montgomery County and Fairfax County with proper planning. Success depends on understanding local building codes, column placement, railing requirements, and structural considerations specific to your area. This guide covers what works, what doesn't, and how to navigate regulations before breaking ground on your dramatic entryway upgrade.