A case study in Invisible Deck Rails: Bethesda and Chevy Chase

Posted in: deck builders, design exercise, design blog

James Moylan

Thursday, March 26, 2020

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Invisible Deck Rails for Bethesda Homes

Invisible Railings are becoming a wonderful option to traditional railing systems.

Invisible deck rails transform older homes while preserving Montgomery County's historic charm. Design Builders recently completed two renovations featuring frameless glass railings—one in Bethesda's Overlook neighborhood and another in Chevy Chase. These systems provide unobstructed views and modern safety compliance, ideal for properties where sightlines matter as much as structure.

7 Deck Maintenance Tips for the Spring

Posted in: Decks in Maryland, Screen Porch, Decks and Patios, Sun Room Maryland, Screen Porch Tips, Deck Screens, Screen Porch Screens, Decks in Virginia, Deck Contratcors, Deck Building Tips, Deck Building Questions, Deck Estimate, Deck Products, Deck Tips, Deck Design, Screen Porch in Maryland, Deck Contractor Permits, Screen-Porch Design Tips, Deck Maintenance, design exercise, design blog, Screened Porch, round deck, rooftop deck design

James Moylan

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

Deck Maintenance Tips for Spring in Maryland & Virginia

How to get your deck ready for spring after a harsh winter

Spring is the perfect time to restore your deck after winter weather. Montgomery County, MD and Fairfax County, VA homeowners should inspect for damage, clean debris, check for rot, and treat wood before the season peaks. A thorough spring maintenance routine protects your investment and ensures your outdoor living space is ready for entertaining and relaxation.

Backyard Design Makeover in Clifton, VA

Posted in: Deck Design, design exercise, design blog

James Moylan

Friday, February 03, 2017

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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!

How to Rejuvenate a Swimming Pool and Outdoor Living Area in Bethesda

Posted in: Screen Porch in Maryland, design exercise, design blog

James Moylan

Friday, January 16, 2015

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A crumbling pool deck made out of concrete

a decrepit swimming pool unused by her, her husband, or their grown family; a five-year-old screened porch too small to serve any function, tacked onto her house as more of an afterthought during an otherwise stellar kitchen renovation. One Bethesda homeowner decided her backyard was in need of a rejuvenation, and we were more than happy to help.

How to Create an Open Patio in Bethesda Without Bug Problems

Posted in: Decks and Patios, Screen-Porch Design Tips, patio design, retractable screen porch, design exercise, design blog

James Moylan

Wednesday, January 07, 2015

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Open Patio Design in Bethesda, Maryland Without Bugs

An open patio in Montgomery County, Maryland can be bug-free with the right design strategy. Screened solutions, strategic landscaping, and proper drainage eliminate mosquitoes and insects while maintaining the open-air aesthetic you want. Learn how homeowners throughout the Bethesda area create comfortable outdoor entertaining spaces year-round without sacrificing style or function.