There’s more than meets the eye in this structure. When the original uncovered wooden deck had seen its’ better days, our homeowners came to us with a wonderful design from William T. Baker, for a new pavilion-like structure to take its place. What made this project so challenging was the limited access we had to the worksite. Our workers had to approach the worksite from afar- the street behind the property; cross over a footbridge that spanned a running creek, then climb up three flights of stairs. Rock was “tooled” at the drop-off site on that street behind, and carried by hand up the hill. Concrete for piers, footings and elevated deck was pumped from the street – right through the middle of the house. Structural steel framing was lifted over the house with help of an 80-ton crane and guided into place with a skilled work crew using remote controls.
Despite the difficulties we encountered, the results were truly spectacular. This Woodland Retreat offers year-round entertaining possibilities. The clerestory windows allow natural light year-round to flood the structure. Decorative tension cables overhead help to steady the chandeliers and add decorative structural support. Several new double doors from the rear of the house provide convenient access to the pavilion from several interior spaces. Copper wall lanterns, chandeliers and paddle fans provide light and added comfort for wonderful Evening Entertaining.
Shadow-gap planking clads the exterior walls and infills between large beams overhead. The large-scale bluestone underfoot blends seamlessly with the patio. The massive wood-burning fireplace is comprised of Tennessee field stone and gray granite, and sports a charming rustic mantel. Wood for the fire is stored conveniently under the raised hearth. An elegant custom railing surrounds the elevated platform and provides a perfect perch for bird-watching up in the treetops. The clerestory windows allow the warm sunshine in during Winter and provides a wonderful view of the changing leaf colors that occur with the four seasons.
