Browse Forums General Discussion 1 May 07, 2009 8:42 pm Hello Big dilemma. We have a Californian Bunglow desperately in need of reno. If we build out the back on one level, our deck will be pretty high (6 steps) making our yard look quite small (17m wide X 13m deep), the advantage is we would be on one level. Other option is to step down maybe 4 steps internally to family room / kitchen then 2 steps to yard wfrom deck which would give a good indoor / outdoor feel, making yard more usable. Our mobility, climbing stairs is not a problem but resale value is, what would you do ??? Re: Step-down internally vs out to deck on one level ? 4May 07, 2009 9:33 pm Thanks Dr, would you go down 6 steps to the ground or would you consider that too dramatic and go with 4 down internally, 2 from deck ? thanks again Re: Step-down internally vs out to deck on one level ? 5May 07, 2009 10:46 pm Without photos it's a tough one One level is nice to use, but seperate levels does make it feel more of a seperate space. Look at some other things to consider such as. What else can you see when you are at the same level - put a ladder up and stand up so you are at the level to see what you see. What do you not when siting down at the lower level? Who else will see you on your deck when it is up in the air what added privacy do you get when it is at ground level What sunshine comes in when it is in the air in winter Versus extra shade in summer if it was lower. What are the prevaling breezes in winter and summer - do you want to enjoy or avoid them most? Which location will help with this breeze catching most? There is lots more to think about than just the house and floor level IMO. Steve Re: Step-down internally vs out to deck on one level ? 6May 07, 2009 11:41 pm Great questions yak chat, to answer a few: What else can you see when you are at the same level ? Our feet would be at the top of the back fence line if we ruled a straight line so we would see over the neighbouring properties (fence height + lattice could increase screening but sill high up. There is a lack of mature trees Who else will see you on your deck when it is up in the air ? Back neighbours + neighbours either side. With side timber screening (eg slats) only back neighbours would see us what added privacy do you get when it is at ground level ? See less of neighbours properties Backyard faces south, so anything that increases sun and light would be valued. Re: Step-down internally vs out to deck on one level ? 7May 08, 2009 6:29 pm I think split levels inside are a PITA. Are you concerned about the steps encroaching upon your backyard, or is it just that the deck itself will be six steps high relative to ground level ? If it were me I'd keep the house and deck on the one plane, then have a stair at one or both ends of the deck. To keep the stair from using too much backyard real estate I'd have three steps, then a landing, then another two steps at right angles to the first set. If you play around with the height of your risers then you might be able to get 2 x 3 steps plus a landing (7 steps). How many square meters is the deck ? Could you split it into two or more sections at different heights, to break it up visually yet retain a reasonably sized primary space which is on the same level as indoors ? You could use the space under your deck for something (integrate with an outdoor kitchen maybe ?) so theres not just a solid wall of timber lining or render etc. The deck fence could be stainless guys ropes, so it woudl be nice and open. It's hard to say what to do without seeing pics or a plan. Cheers, Justin. Re: Step-down internally vs out to deck on one level ? 8May 08, 2009 8:05 pm NR - what climate are you in? as for looking over the fence - is that an issue? easy to screen out whilst still allowing the sun to come in in winter, think a bit outside the square, and sit out there for awhile and think hmm, whats nice.? Personally I like the one level - but it needs to be a enjoyable area - and only you can choose that and what you like. Is that above ground or at ground level and near the grass? six steps is almost usable underneath, bit more of a yard stuff storage area IMO. DIY, Home Maintenance & Repair Thanks. I was thinking of using either Extreme Joist or LOWDECK timbers for joists. Any idea what sets them apart and which… 2 12885 Thanks for the informative response! I'll feed that back to the site supervisor. 2 4110 4 14292 |