- By going vertical and building multiple levels, you can make the most of a small space.
- Pergolas offer some degree of privacy from your neighbors.
- Taking advantage of built-in furniture can give your deck the appearance of more space.
When the weather warms up, you and your family want to spend more time outdoors. A new deck or patio can provide space for outdoor living. In areas like Capitol Hill, Alexandria, and Arlington, you find unique charm in the townhomes and row houses. However, these gorgeous townhomes don’t offer much outdoor space to build a deck.
You might feel like you’re living in a fishbowl each time you go outside with your neighbors looking in. The narrowness of these yards pose challenges when adding a deck. With smart design and professional expertise, you can turn your outdoor space into an outdoor room where you can relax and enjoy a beautiful day.
Maximizing Your Footprint: Think Vertically
When you think of building out a space, you’re probably only considering a single level. When you think vertically, you can capture additional space without needing a wider footprint. You might consider a multi-level or raised platform deck to create distinct zones, such as dining and lounging. The varying heights can create the illusion of greater depth, especially in the narrow backyard of a DC row house. These designs can make it feel like you have a lot more space than you do.
Built-Ins Are Your Best Friend
You’re going to want furniture for your new deck, and additional furniture can come with a large price tag. Have you considered built-in deck furniture? It can save you space and time. In contrast to bulky, standalone patio furniture, built-in features offer streamlined efficiency for your needs. Here are some features to consider:
Townhouse Decks With Built-In Benches
To truly relax on your new deck, you’re going to need a place to sit and unwind. Built-in benches can save you money and provide an efficient way to use your space. It eliminates the need for extra chairs or sofas that take up all the available space.
Planters and Storage
From gardening tools to extra cushions, you’re going to need storage. When you’re planning your deck, you should have built-in storage areas. To bring the space to life, you want to add a little greenery. Planter build-ins are ideal for saving space you want for your family. A custom, uncluttered look is created with this storage, leaving the center of your space open for movement or spreading out a picnic lunch.
Privacy Is Paramount: Escaping the “Fishbowl”
It seems like your neighbors in Alexandria and Bethesda are within touching distance of your back door. Anytime that you’re outside, you feel like you’re on full display and putting on a show. Careful planning for your new deck or patio can help you create a little more privacy. Here are some modern design solutions:
Modern Privacy Screens
Modern lattice panels and horizontal slat screens are a trending, contemporary aesthetic. These options provide privacy from your neighbors and ensure that your space feels a little more intimate.
Pergolas and Greenery
A pergola with a retractable shade can offer the privacy you want. You can combine your pergola with tall, narrow plants, such as grasses or bamboo. These planters, combined with the pergola, can create a natural living wall.
Material and Color Magic for Narrow Backyards
Some colors and materials are better for providing an appearance of a larger space. You want to use lighter-colored composite decking or sleek pavers to reflect light and make small spaces feel airy. When you’re a busy DC professional, you want to choose materials that look outstanding with minimal maintenance.
Navigating the Challenges of DC-Area Townhomes
The tight outdoor spaces in DC-area townhomes can make adding a deck a unique challenge. Long Fence can manage projects in tight urban spaces where material delivery and equipment access are challenging. We can work within your strict HOA regulations in Maryland and Northern Virginia to ensure your project is high-quality and compliant. Long Fence is your specialized Alexandria, VA, townhome-patio builder who understands local architecture and its demands.
Ready to Transform Your Small Space?
You don’t have to compromise beauty and lifestyle because you have a small yard. Don’t let a small yard limit your lifestyle. Let our design experts show you the hidden potential in your townhome’s outdoor space. Schedule your free, creative design consultation today.
