Before and After Images of A Three Season Addition in Fitchburg, Wis.

View the before-and-after pictures to see how we transformed the homeowners' existing deck into the perfect three-season porch and designed three distinct outdoor living spaces to support Leela and Justin’s daily lives.

Our clients, Leela and Justin, are working parents in Fitchburg’s Highlands of Seminole subdivision who came to us looking to replace their deck with a three-season porch and outdoor living space.

The homeowners had already completed several updates, including new exterior siding and interior remodeling. They were ready to tackle the remaining improvement: turning their deck into a three-season room and upgrading their outdoor living space. Their vision was to create a treehouse-inspired retreat where they could relax, enjoy the surrounding trees, and spend time together most of the year.

The goal was to seamlessly integrate the new three-season porch to replace the existing deck. We met with the couple during the design phase to review options, and it became clear that, rather than simply updating materials, we needed to re-examine the deck and find an alternative solution.

Removing the Existing Deck and Expanding the Footprint

The home’s existing deck had weathered composite decking and a wood railing that no longer complemented the home’s design or the homeowner’s aesthetic. Rather than simply updating deck materials, we chose to remove the existing deck. This let us expand the new three-season porch's footprint, creating a more comfortable and versatile gathering space.

The couple’s goal was to take advantage of the trees and the view, so the window layout became a key part of the final design. We wanted to capture the views and maximize natural light while letting fresh air circulate through the room.

Because the space lacked air conditioning, operable windows were the obvious choice. We strategically placed the windows to take advantage of outdoor breezes. We kept the existing patio door to the house since it was in good condition and complemented the home’s other windows.

To extend the porch's use into the colder months, we added insulation to the floors, walls, and ceiling. To create a heated patio area beneath the addition, we installed Bromic infrared heaters to provide supplemental warmth while maintaining a clean, streamlined appearance.

A Warm, Inviting Space with Easy Access to the Outdoors

Our goal for the overall design feel was to create an interior that was simple, bright, and inviting. We chose pine box-car siding to bring in a natural texture and warmth to the space. A whitewash finish on the ceiling highlights the wood grain, and the painted walls help keep the space bright. Together, these interior finishes create a relaxed atmosphere that reflects Leela and Justin’s original treehouse inspiration.

The couple also had a priority of adding convenient access to the backyard. To meet this goal, we incorporated a glass door that opens onto a landing and a staircase leading to the patio below. This stylish connection lets the family move easily between the porch and the backyard, whether they’re entertaining family and friends or just letting the dog out.

We also considered the exterior finishes. On the exterior, shaker-style vinyl siding introduces a new texture while complementing the home’s existing exterior finishes. During the design process, we carefully considered the roofline and location of the existing windows above and beside the new addition. By working around the existing windows, we preserved the natural light while seamlessly integrating the new structure with the home’s architecture.

Upgrading the Outdoor Living Space

Beyond the three-season porch, the couple also wanted to upgrade their outdoor space as part of the addition project. Beneath the addition, a finished ceiling and two Bromic infrared heaters create a warm, inviting covered patio you can enjoy in a variety of weather conditions. Nearby, our carpenters built a beautiful, hand-crafted custom cedar pergola that serves as a dedicated grilling area and an intimate space for family dining.

Each area serves a different purpose while working perfectly together to create a spectacular, cohesive outdoor living experience. The enclosed porch offers a comfortable place to unwind with easy access to the outdoor living space. The covered patio provides shelter from the weather for outdoor gatherings, and the custom-built pergola establishes and defines a dedicated space for grilling and family dining.

The Result of this Home Addition and Outdoor Living Upgrade

Our design transformed the original dated deck into three distinct outdoor living spaces, each designed to support a different part of Leela and Justin’s daily lives. From the treehouse-inspired three-season porch to the covered, heated patio and custom pergola, every space offers the family a new way to relax, gather, and enjoy the outdoors!

Do you need more space and want a solution? Are you considering a kitchen or bathroom remodel? Let us help you create a new look and design the perfect finished space to meet your needs! If you live in the Greater Madison area, call the experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel at (608) 846-5963. We can take your condo to the next level of comfort, design, and function! Are you ready to learn more? We're always happy to answer your questions.