Designing your backyard is one of the best ways to enhance your home and create a functional retreat for relaxation and entertainment. With our expertise and guidance, we ensure your outdoor area is a beautiful and comfortable extension of your living space year-round. Whether you dream of a spacious deck, a cozy covered porch, or a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, we’re here to lead you through every decision and provide expert recommendations tailored to your needs.
Design for Minnesota’s Climate
Minnesota’s climate presents unique challenges—harsh winters, hot summers, and unpredictable freeze-thaw cycles. Ensuring your outdoor space stands up to these elements requires durable and weather-resistant choices. We help you select the right structural and surface materials that balance beauty, longevity, and ease of maintenance, ensuring your outdoor space remains both stunning and functional through every season. The thoughtful selection of furnishings and finishes is also crucial, allowing your outdoor space to withstand the elements without sacrificing comfort and style.
For our Artful Addition in Lynnhurst, we included an indoor-outdoor fireplace. Since we are based in a colder climate, we had to carefully select a fireplace that was rated for our region to ensure proper operation while maintaining an insulated building envelope. This thoughtful integration created a cozy, transitional space that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Weather Protection for Year-Round Enjoyment
Minnesota’s seasons are unpredictable, but with our strategic planning, your outdoor space can remain enjoyable no matter the conditions. Incorporating covered areas provides essential protection from rain, snow, and excessive sun exposure, while heating elements allow for comfortable outdoor use even in colder months. Smart design can also integrate features that shield your space from strong winds while adding privacy, making your outdoor retreat feel more intimate and welcoming. Additionally, proper drainage solutions are key to preventing water buildup, preserving the integrity of your outdoor space, and ensuring long-term usability.
When working on an addition in East Harriet, the homeowners wanted a dedicated space for entertaining that seamlessly extended into their backyard. A highlight of the project was the introduction of an outdoor dining pergola, which served as a beautiful transitional space connecting the interior and exterior. The pergola extends over the deck, providing shade without restricting the stunning backyard views. The elevated dining deck was thoughtfully designed with stone steps, creating an open and inviting atmosphere for outdoor gatherings. This project exemplified how intentional design can elevate both aesthetics and functionality.
Ideas to Inspire Your Backyard
When envisioning your perfect outdoor retreat, there are endless possibilities to make your space feel like an extension of your home. A firepit creates a cozy gathering place for chilly evenings, while a dedicated dining area transforms mealtime into an outdoor experience. A swimming pool or hot tub introduces an element of relaxation and recreation, perfect for unwinding or hosting guests. For those looking to maximize year-round usability, a sunroom blends the best of indoor comfort with outdoor ambiance. Whatever your vision, we can help you bring it to life with thoughtful design and high-quality craftsmanship.
The owners of this classic Tudor home in the Cedar Lake area of Minneapolis loved its layout and charm but felt disconnected from the outdoors. We worked closely with them to design a modern sunroom featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, clean architectural lines, and a neutral color palette that extends into the side yard. This “glass box” addition seamlessly bridges traditional Tudor elegance with contemporary design, creating a bright and inviting space that can be enjoyed in every season.
When to Start Your Project
The best time to begin planning your outdoor space is early spring. This allows time for thoughtful design, permitting, and construction to ensure your space is ready when you need it.
At Quartersawn Design Build, we specialize in crafting beautiful, functional outdoor spaces tailored to your lifestyle and Minnesota’s unique climate. With decades of experience, we bring expert insight and top-quality craftsmanship to every project, ensuring that your backyard transforms into a stunning year-round retreat.
Are you ready to elevate your outdoor space? Schedule a time to speak with a project advisor.