Ridgetop Addition

Addition · Eugene, Oregon · 2025 · Under Construction

The couple loved their house with an incredible valley view. But the outdoor entertaining zone didn’t exist. We created a multi-level outdoor entertaining zone that could be used year-round. An open patio on the top floor encourages the view to be part of the experience, and a warm spot by the fire is perfect for those cool mountain evenings. A full kitchen and entertaining zone on the lower level will be comfortable year-round, with heaters, BBQ, sound system and a TV.

Currently under construction.

The question

They needed to cover the stairs. Our first discussion was simply to rebuild the existing deck, and cover the stairs going down to the garden.

What we didn’t do

We suggested thinking more deeply about the potential of this space. A roof over the staircase would block the view from inside the house, and create an outdoor environment that was dark and confining. By taking a fresh look a the potential of this space, we considered the upper deck as a “view patio” looking down into the valley, with a more protected grotto space below. The grotto would be comfortable for three-seasons living, with direct access to the terraced yard and uncovered patio.

The design

The lower patio was designed with three distinct zones that encourage entertaining outside. The kitchen includes all of the comforts needed for cooking and hosting. A BBQ/smoker zone on the edge of the space allows the grill master to be part of the fun, while the smoke is whisked away. A sound system, overhead heating elements and A/V system allow for backyard tailgating on game day, and movie nights on the patio.