There’s something so satisfying about a good home improvement project, especially one that sets the stage for a fresh new season. As we gear up for spring, we tackled the project of removing the the wooden platform in front of our studio-office and replaced it with a sturdy new one. This simple but impactful update looks great and improves the safety of our workspace.
Out with the Old
The first step? Saying goodbye to the worn-out, weathered boards that had seen better days. Over the years, exposure to the elements had taken its toll, leaving some of the wood unstable.
We carefully measured the existing deck to ensure our new structure would match the same dimensions and utilize the existing concrete footers—saving us time and effort.
Planning and Prepping
Once the old boards were gone, it was time to plan the rebuild. We took precise measurements of the frame and spacing of the joists, then put together a lumber list. We used pressure-treated lumber and exterior grade deck screws to build the replacement platform. A trip to the Lowes later, we had everything we needed. Now, onto the fun part—building!
Building a Stronger Foundation
Here’s how we put the new platform together, step by step:
- Using a chop saw (miter saw), we cut the pressure-treated boards to the exact measurements needed for our deck.
- We laid out the new boards, spacing them evenly with deck board spacers for proper airflow and drainage.
- Using exterior-grade deck screws, we secured each board in place, ensuring they were flush and level. We used a homemade jig to ensure that all of the screws were evenly spaced and aligned.
- We carefully hauled the platform from the building space to our studio/office and using the existing footers, installed the new deck.
After a weekend of work, our refreshed platform was complete—solid, stable, and ready to handle all the foot traffic and inspiration the season brings.
Adding a Touch of Spring
Of course, no space is truly complete without a little charm. While we wait for our hydrangeas and spring bulbs to start blooming, we’re adding a cheerful pot of pansies to brighten up the area. These cold-hardy flowers are perfect for bridging the gap between winter and spring, adding an instant pop of color and life.
Looking Ahead
From Rotten to Refreshing – Rebuilding Our Studio-Office Deck
We are so excited that we were able to rebuild our studio-office deck and take it from rotten to refreshing. With the deck project complete, we’re ready to dive into even more creative endeavors. So, if you’ve been eyeing an outdoor project, consider this your sign—it’s the perfect time to get ready for spring! Stay tuned as we share more seasonal projects and inspirations in the coming weeks.
