3-Season Hybrid Porch
Creating a 2nd story porch among the treetops in Chaska.
Lead Carpenter Earl Drangstveit
Carpenter Tyler Seamons, Chris Gilbertson
Project Summary
This remodel started out as a simple deck replacement. Most, strike that, ALL remodels have a tendency to start out with a conclusion. They tell us they want a new this or that. Simple right? And insufficient for the task at hand. That's when we start digging. We started asking why. And we keep asking. We do that to uncover the real motivation and desires that need to be satisfied. It’s how we define a meaningful scope of work.
Almost anyone can slap on a new countertop or replace an old deck. But if you want a new space that literally changes the way you live, that’s on a whole different level.
After several lengthy conversations, these homeowners realized they wanted something that was more of a living space they could use most of the year. But they also wanted it to be integrated into the surrounding nature and reflect the unique eclectic architecture of the house. And of course, they love to entertain, so it had to be inviting, comfortable, and mosquito-free.
Initial conclusion: we want a new deck. Final scope and design: we gave them a 3 ½ season bug-free porch with a panoramic view, a breeze on command, and a tree house to entertain in.
The Porch Windows Direct venting panels (not glass) provide unobstructed views with collapsible screens in multiple configurations to control the amount of airflow into the porch. The 18 x 20 footprint is large enough for large gatherings. The decking inside is Dektek concrete tiles with a beautiful stunning glaze and remarkable durability. On the outside, it's Wolf synthetic decking made of 94% recycled materials.
In this short summary video, Chaska homeowners Sue and Joe explain the "why" behind their remodel and show off the most important aspects of their remodel completed by Murphy Bros. Design Build Remodel.
Before Remodel and Progress
Interior of home leading to the original deck enterance. We matched the distressed work in the original ceiling beams.
After
It is always a challenge to integrate the old with the new, especially when it involves roofing design and materials. The cedar shakes needed to be a heavy hand-split full inch thick and the gutters required a 6-inch width with a custom blocking and a water diverter to properly channel downpours so as not to overwhelm the system.
