Project Info

Architect/Contractor: Alex Martinec, Bright Ideas by Martinec, Corning, N.Y.
Other Team Members: Mike Losey, lead carpenter

Priorities

  • Replace an existing tube-and-cloth canopy that regularly had to be removed in bad weather and which blocked natural light from entering the home.

  • Better manage late-afternoon sun, which struck the façade full on, making the deck unusable.

  • Create better access to the deck from outside the home.

Solutions

Architect Alex Martinec and his crew removed the deck’s centrally located spiral staircase and installed stairs off to the side for easier access from the driveway.

To address the intense afternoon sun: they built a large roof, which both offers protection and creates an open space for outdoor dining; installed floor-to-ceiling blinds; and added sliding screens on either side of the deck to create balance and offer privacy. “Usually on a lake remodel you have to be aware not to disturb the neighbors’ views,” Martinec says. “Here, removing the existing railings and putting in the glass actually improved the neighbors’ views.”

Judges’ Comments

This is a lovely reworking of a deck to better enjoy the lake views. The glass railing helps frame the roof and focus the view.

Products Used

Beams: LSB LiteSteel

Decking: Trex (Brasilia collection)

Lighting: Rejuvenation; Philips; Utilitech

Paints/stains: Sherwin-Williams; Benjamin Moore

Roofing: Versico (Versigard)

Siding: Western red cedar; James Hardie (HardiPanel)

Structural lumber: Louisiana Pacific