With Spring arriving this month and warmer weather just around the corner, thoughts turn to spending more time outdoors, and for many homeowners, that means maximizing outdoor living spaces. Whether a cozy front porch, a sprawling deck for summer gatherings, or a versatile three-season room that seamlessly merges indoor with outdoor, having the right outdoor space can enhance both your home’s value and your lifestyle.
But creating the perfect open air retreat starts with careful planning—choosing the right design, materials, and layout to fit your needs. And working with a team who specializes in creating outdoor living spaces is key. So, we sat down with Alex Larson, owner of TL Decks in Crystal Lake, to talk design trends, materials, aesthetics, and why he is passionate about creating spaces that reflect each homeowner’s unique lifestyle.
While Alex has a lifelong appreciation for natural surroundings and outdoor activities, the past few years have reinforced just how valuable our homes—and the spaces surrounding them—truly are.
As he explains, “If there’s one lasting lesson from the COVID era, it’s that the ability to gather comfortably and create a functional and inviting outdoor space to extend our living areas, isn’t just a luxury; it’s a priority.”
With years of experience in designing and building custom decks and porches, Alex and his team at TL Decks have built a reputation for transforming backyards into stunning, functional spaces, guiding homeowners through the process of choosing the best materials and layouts for their specific needs.
While traditional wood decks were once the standard, today’s trends are increasingly turning to composite decking (a blend of wood fibers and plastic) and poly-resin materials for durability and low maintenance. Railings, too, have evolved with a variety of styles and finishes from traditional to low profile and everything in between. With a wide range of prices, finishes, and styles, having guidance from someone whose business focuses on decking makes all the difference.
Alex takes pride in his dedication to meeting the clients where they are at. He stresses the importance of open communication between the homeowner and the contractor; an opportunity for each to ask questions and provide clarity. To create a space that reflects the homeowner’s vision, it is essential to understand how they plan to use the space. For instance, do they enjoy their morning coffee on their front porch? Do they regularly eat dinner in their backyard where the late day sun beats down? Do they like to walk around on their deck barefooted?
In turn, homeowners would benefit from educating themselves about the products, including maintenance, longevity, and the amount of heat they produce. Alex explains, “If we don’t have these conversations up front, the homeowner may end up disappointed with the finished product.” He also adds that when considering contractors, look for someone innovative with up-to-date knowledge of, and experience with, the current products and trends.
A thoughtfully designed deck can transform your outdoor space, creating a beautiful and inviting retreat. Whether you’re looking to refresh an aging structure or create something entirely new, don’t go it alone, trust a specialist to bring your vision to life. With the right design and materials, your backyard can become a haven for quiet mornings, lively summer evenings, and everything in between. Why not start dreaming of your perfect outdoor escape today?
"Creating a functional and inviting outdoor space to extend our living areas, isn’t just a luxury; it’s a priority."