Before and After: The Backyard Retreat - A Morse Custom Design-Build Project
Before: This project objective was to create an entertainment oasis with new outdoor kitchen, swimming pool, and better exterior connectivity from the kitchen. The three windows at the kitchen nook bump-out were removed in order to connect the kitchen to the backyard entertainment.
After: The new patio cover and swinging door at the nook provide the gateway to the custom pool and outdoor kitchen/bar.
Before: The spa consumed a good portion of usable open space in the backyard. It needed a new home that was not a focal point.
After: The spa was tucked back into the corner of the yard in order to create space for the new covered patio, smoker, and covered BBQ/bar area.
Product Highlight: Reclaimed Redwood Fence Panels
The typical lifespan of a redwood fence is roughly 20-25 years. Fences can last longer depending on the type posts and the integrity of the framework and installation. When a redwood fence is removed, the panels are typically recycled into mulch and used for ground covers.
Old redwood fence panels gracefully age to a neutral gray weathered color.
Many fence replacement companies will cut the rails at the posts and remove the entire 8 ft span between the posts, and haul them to the wood recycling center. We were able to divert the hauling to the dump and instead hauled them to our shop where we deconstructed the panels for repurposing the aged wood.
Custom built metal framework and posts use mechanical connections to display the reclaimed redwood panels and allow for future replacement if required.
Typically, the labor involved in preparing old fence panels will be more expensive than purchasing new material. However, the benefit of reuse and the appearance of the aged panels provide an added value to the additional preparation labor. We have used local, reclaimed fence panels, rails, and caps in multiple types of recent projects.
Reclaimed redwood fence panels used as a wall backdrop in this built in entertainment alcove.
Employee Highlight: Dave Horne
Dave Horne, Production Manager
Dave has been involved in the construction industry ever since he graduated from college, not only operating his own business, but also working in sales for construction products. He joined the Morse team in 2006 bringing an eclectic and highly professional skill set that has been instrumental in promoting a client-centric culture that generates a positive design-build experience.
Dave and his wife, Christina, enjoy outdoor adventures such as boating and wakeboarding.
Because of Dave’s versatility and dedication, he has excelled in every position he has held at Morse. As a project manager, he goes above and beyond to insure trade partners and Morse team members coordinate effectively toward a high-quality finished project. In 2012, he achieved certification in the NARI, Certified Remodeler Project Manager program; this requires knowledge and practice of the highest standards of project management
Dave enjoys his free time playing golf at several golf courses in the area. Dave has been known to cut it up on the wake board. He is also an active fan of the Sacramento Kings and enjoys attending several games a year. His favorite food is tacos and his favorite color is navy blue.
