We thrive on transformation at Millhawlk, and the 200 Pond St project in Natick, MA was a perfect example. When we first saw the property, the existing landing and siding were functional but uninspired. This was our chance to showcase how a custom deck, modern bi-fold door, and strategic design could turn a basic backyard into a seamless indoor-outdoor living space.
The goal was clear: create a durable, natural wood deck that blended aesthetics with practicality, while adding contemporary touches like a wide-opening bi-fold door and sleek railings. This wasn’t just about construction—it was about reimagining how the homeowners could live and entertain. Every material choice, from the Fir decking to the black aluminum railings, had to balance beauty, budget, and longevity. And that’s exactly what we delivered.
The Vision
The client dreamed of a low-maintenance yet natural-looking deck with:
- A 12’x22’ spacious layout attached to their existing landing
- A bi-fold door to maximize access to the yard
- Modern railings for safety and style
- Privacy solutions (pergola + fence) for neighbor screening
Overcoming Material Challenges
The most labor-intensive aspect of this deck was selecting the decking boards. The client wanted a natural look, opting for natural wood. However, the challenge with natural wood lies in its durability and maintenance. Even with high-end wood, the client will need periodic maintenance, including staining and replacing boards that may crack or deteriorate over time. Since budget was also a consideration, we conducted a price and quality comparison of the following wood types: Pressure Treated, Cedar, Cedar Knot, Mahogany, and Fir.
| Material | Key Strength | Trade-Off | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fir | Affordable + durable | Slightly rough texture | 9/10 |
| Cedar Knot | Budget-friendly | Knots slow installation | 7/10 |
| Mahogany | Luxury finish | High cost | 10/10 |
| Cedar | Premium look | Prone to warping | 7.5/10 |
| Pressure-Treated | Cheap | Warps easily | 4/10 |
- Pressure Treated: The most affordable option, widely available, but weak in durability as it tends to swell and warp at the edges, leading to squeaks and nail loosening. The client’s existing landing was made of this material, which has poor paint absorption and high maintenance requirements. In terms of appearance, it is lacking. Rating: 4
- Cedar: This wood is tied with Mahogany as the most expensive on the list. It offers excellent quality and high visual appeal but has long-term board stability issues. It absorbs stain well but has a rougher surface compared to Mahogany. The downside is the cost. Rating: 7.5 for our client’s needs, 9 if prioritizing visual appeal.
- Cedar Knot: Based on vendor recommendations, we tested Cedar Knot. It is more affordable as it is a less refined type of Cedar, named for its many knots. These knots can be problematic during installation since they are too hard for nails to penetrate easily, sometimes causing strong recoil in nail guns, slowing installation. Rating: 7
- Mahogany: Sometimes even more expensive than Cedar, Mahogany is the most visually appealing option. It has a smooth, consistent surface when sanded, absorbs stain well, and its deep reddish color is striking. For a high-end deck, we highly recommend Mahogany. Rating: 10 for visual appeal and durability. However, due to budget constraints, we had to eliminate it from this project.
- Fir: This option pleasantly surprised us. It was the second most affordable on the list yet offered excellent durability. When sanded, its surface is decent—slightly rough but still of good quality. Fir is also widely available in lumberyards. Rating: Best choice for this project.
We determined that Fir was the best option for the client, providing both quality and durability. For wrapping the trims and beams, we opted for Cedar Knot. Labor costs varied minimally since the installation process was similar across wood types. Additionally, clients should note that decking boards are sold in random lengths. For optimal stain absorption, we recommend applying it during dry, warm weeks.
Designing for Function & Style
Pergola & Privacy Fence
Using the same wood analysis, we selected Cedar Knot for the beams, posts, rafters, and privacy fence. To enhance aesthetics, we incorporated decorative black Simpson clips. Structurally, we ensured the pergola was securely seated on the beams to prevent future issues, even though it is a relatively lightweight structure. Since the client wanted more privacy due to the property’s proximity to the neighbor, we suggested building a privacy fence using the same material to seamlessly blend it with the pergola.
Modern Railings
To introduce modern elements to the railing, we recommended matte black aluminum railings, creating a contrast with the decking boards. We selected the Avalon Aluminum Railings from RDI (RDI Avalon Railings), which offer a lightweight, high-quality, and visually appealing solution. The client also had a unique request—she wanted a surface to place groceries when opening the door. To accommodate this, we suggested a cocktail railing, using Fir as the top rail. Since this added cost for both materials and labor, we installed the cocktail railing only on the sections closest to the doors.
Bi-Fold Door
Another modern design element the client desired was the door. To maximize the opening width, we recommended a bi-fold door, which fully opens, unlike traditional sliding doors where one panel remains fixed. We selected a bi-fold door from Marvin (Marvin Bi-Fold Doors), a high-quality but higher-cost option due to its increased functionality. Custom doors like this typically have a lead time of 12–18 weeks, requiring careful planning for permitting, framing, and installation.
Siding
The biggest challenge with the siding was the transition between materials. The existing siding was metal, and since the specific model was discontinued, we selected a similar replacement from CertainTeed. The main challenge was transitioning at the outside corners, which we resolved by using a J-channel and caulking the edges.
This project was a great experience, and both Millhawlk and the client were very satisfied with the outcome. The permit application process went smoothly, as our design complied fully with code and zoning regulations.
The Final Product
Despite the bi-fold door’s long lead time, the project stayed on track. The permit process was smooth thanks to our code-compliant design, and the result was a stunning, functional outdoor space—complete with:
- Durable Fir decking (built to last)
- Sleek black railings (modern contrast)
- Marvin bi-fold door (indoor-outdoor flow)
Why Choose Millhawlk to build your new deck?
This project embodies our approach: turning challenges into standout features. Whether it’s a custom deck or full exterior redesign, we blend creativity with precision to bring visions to life.
Let’s Build Your Dream Outdoor Space
Ready to transform your backyard? Contact Millhawlk today to schedule a consultation.
📞 (774) 300-2972
