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!

Design Exercise: Covered Deck and Patio in Great Falls, Virginia

Posted in: Screen Porch in Northern Virginia, Decks and Patios, Deck Screens, Deck Design, design aesthetic, patio design, design exercise, design blog

James Moylan

Friday, February 13, 2015

Outdoor living space in Great Falls, VA

Covered Deck & Patio Design in Great Falls, VA

A covered deck transforms your outdoor living space into a year-round entertaining area. Bill and Eileen, Great Falls homeowners in Fairfax County, VA, wanted to maximize their backyard without compromising on style or durability. This design-build project showcases how a thoughtfully planned covered patio extends your home's functionality and increases property value for families throughout the greater DMV region.

With a reinvigorated kitchen, a basement-turned-bar and game room, and an expanded master bedroom, the couple's attention has turned to their deteriorating 25-year-old deck that is showing signs of its age. As Bill and Eileen come from large families, they are looking for an outdoor makeover to support the scale of holiday gatherings they are accustomed to as well as birthday parties, play dates, and other events year-round. With their current set-up not meeting these needs, it's time to makeover their outdoor living space.

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.