Thoughtfully Designed Outdoor Living Spaces for the Pacific Northwest

In the Pacific Northwest, homeowners are looking for outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and functional throughout the year. This area has an abundance of natural beauty, and people want homes that take advantage of scenic views and lush landscapes. However, since we do experience cooler temperatures and wet weather throughout some parts of the year, those outdoor spaces have to be thoughtfully designed with features that can help extend their use into the cooler months. At Sierra Homes, we specialize in outdoor spaces that maximize scenic views and while feeling like natural extensions of the home. Below, we’re sharing real examples from Sierra Homes projects that show how we turn patios, decks, and rooftop retreats into spaces for gathering, relaxing, and entertaining—rain or shine.

Outdoor Fireplaces & Decks That Bring People Together

One of the features that encourages gathering is a fireplace– the epitome of coziness. An outdoor fireplace draws people to it for connection and comfort year-round. 

Spacious decks are also a must. Whether it’s being used for dining, lounging, or entertaining, a well crafted deck creates an extension of your home’s living space.

We always consider outdoor spaces like these when designing our PNW homes. Instead of being an afterthought, we integrate them into the home’s design right from the start.

Outdoor fireplaces like this one create a cozy, year-round gathering space.

Maximize Your View with Second-Story or Rooftop Decks

For example, many of the homes we design have a gorgeous view. For these homes, maximizing that view is essential. We do this with window placement, of course, but we also consider it in the overall layout of the home. In our Kennydale projects, we often place living areas on the second floor to take full advantage of sweeping Lake Washington views. In these layouts, a second-story deck connecting to the living area is a natural and beautiful extension of the living space. Decks that connect to the dining area can be used for extra entertaining room. For these spaces, we maximize indoor-outdoor flow with sliding glass doors or multi-panel openings. Some of our designs include a rooftop deck for an even higher and more stunning view of the lake! Creating extra outdoor space with a wrap-around or rooftop deck makes even more sense on lots that have limited yard space.

The view from this rooftop deck is unbeatable!

Custom Details That Make a Difference

We craft our outdoor spaces with the same attention to detail that defines us. Cozy and unique lighting creates the perfect relaxing ambience. Materials are chosen to harmonize with the home’s style and aesthetic. Seating and conversation areas blend style with function. We tailor all of these choices to the homeowner’s needs and lifestyle– for example, a stone pizza oven for an avid foodie. 

Cozy furniture, patio heaters, and scenic views help create an extra living room in this home.

FAQs

Q1: Can outdoor living spaces really be used year-round in the Pacific Northwest?

A: Yes—with the right design choices, your outdoor space can be comfortable and functional even during cooler or rainy months. Covered areas, outdoor fireplaces, patio heaters, and weather-resistant materials help extend the use of outdoor spaces year-round.

A stone fireplace and covered patio make this outdoor room inviting in all seasons.

Q2: What are the best outdoor features to include in a custom home?

A: Some of the most popular outdoor amenities include fire pits and fireplaces, spacious decks, second-story or rooftop patios with views, outdoor kitchens or bars, and outdoor dining areas.

Q3: How do you design outdoor spaces to maximize views?

A: We consider the site’s natural elevation, window placement, and home layout. In some homes, we shift living spaces to the second floor to capture lake or mountain views—and then extend those spaces with connected decks or balconies.

This beautiful deck extends the family’s living room outdoors to take advantage of lake views.

Q4: What materials hold up best in the Pacific Northwest climate?

A: We choose materials that can withstand rain and moisture while maintaining their beauty. This includes composite decking, weather-treated wood, natural stone, and durable outdoor lighting fixtures.

Q: Can I add outdoor amenities during a remodel, or only in new builds?

A: Absolutely! We can help integrate new features like decks, patios, or exterior lighting into your existing home design.

This seating area was designed as part of a remodel project in this Issaquah home.

More Outdoor Design Inspo

Outdoor amenities are an essential part of making a home livable and enjoyable. If you’re thinking about designing and building your own dream home, we’d love to hear from you! Browse our portfolio for inspiration and to see examples of our work. If you’re ready to discuss your options, please contact us for a consultation! And be sure to sign up for our newsletter for more design inspiration.