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If you are craving warm evenings, slower mornings, and a space that feels like an escape without leaving home, this project is for you.

We designed this lakeside outdoor retreat in Lake Tapps with one clear goal in mind: to create a space that feels like an escape to a private resort while still working beautifully for everyday life. These homeowners have impeccable taste and love spending time with their family and friends. They wanted a resort-like space with an upscale aesthetic that was also a place they could truly unwind, entertain, and enjoy time alone and times of togetherness. The result is a calm, layered outdoor environment that balances beauty, comfort, and practicality. Every design decision was intentional, ensuring the space feels just as good to live in as it looks.

HOW WE ACHIEVED THE RESULT

Designing with Zones That Support Real Life
Rather than treating the deck as one large open area, we divided the space into three purposeful zones: lounging, conversation, and dining.

This approach works because it mirrors how people naturally spend time outdoors. Sun loungers face the water for uninterrupted relaxation. A central conversation area encourages connection and togetherness. The dining and kitchen zone sits beneath a pergola, offering shade and comfort for meals and gatherings throughout the day. By giving each activity its own place, the space feels organized, intuitive, and easy to use.

A Soft, Neutral Palette That Lets the View Lead
With such a beautiful lakeside setting, the palette was intentionally understated. Warm whites, soft taupes, natural teak, and woven textures were chosen to complement the surroundings rather than compete with them.

Neutral foundations work especially well outdoors because they feel timeless, adapt easily to seasonal changes, and allow the water, greenery, and sky to take center stage. We were lucky that these clients already had beautiful loungers to use as a starting point for the design.  Subtle contrast through metal accents, soft blue textiles, and layered greenery add interest while maintaining a calm, resort-like atmosphere.

Furniture Designed for Comfort and Connection
Every furniture selection was made with comfort, scale, and enjoyment in mind. Swivel lounge chairs allow guests to turn toward each other or toward the lake views. Deep, cushioned loungers invite rest and lingering afternoons. The expandable teak dining table supports both everyday meals and larger gatherings.

Nothing in this space feels precious or overly formal. The furnishings are designed for real people, real moments, and long, relaxed conversations.

Architectural Elements That Ground the Space
To increase usability and protect the furnishings, a slatted pergola was introduced over the dining and kitchen area. It adds structure and architectural interest while providing shade and shelter throughout the day.

A privacy wall helps define the space, while offering offering noise reduction and a natural backdrop for the outdoor kitchen. Together, these elements make the outdoor area feel like a true extension of the home.

Layered Lighting for Ambiance
Lighting was key to creating a space that feels just as inviting after sunset. Soft string lights add warmth overhead, lanterns and candlelight bring intimacy to seating areas, and solar-lit umbrellas provide gentle illumination without complexity. 

Practical Details That Make the Space Function Well

Behind the scenes, thoughtful storage keeps towels, cushions, and other outdoor essentials close at hand. Durable materials were selected to handle weather and everyday use, and methodical layout allows for easy circulation even when multiple areas are in use.

A Common Starting Point
This resort-inspired outdoor oasis came together because the design was approached thoughtfully. By focusing first on how the homeowners wanted to live in the space and building intentionally around what they already owned, every decision felt clear and connected.

Many outdoor projects begin this way. Once the layout, flow, and foundational pieces are clarified, the rest of the design naturally falls into place.

This is a space designed for connection, restoration, and making memories season after season.

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