Restoring Elegance: A Builder’s Journey to Revive a Mediterranean Villa

Uncovering the Danger. As a builder, we often encounter projects that present unique challenges, but few have been as complex—or as rewarding—as the one we recently completed on a beautiful Mediterranean villa. The task was to replace a deteriorating back deck that, at first glance, seemed merely weathered, but upon closer inspection, revealed itself to be a ticking time bomb.

Starting from Scratch where the previous builder had created a deck that, unfortunately, was not built to last. The lack of proper weatherproofing and the use of inadequate materials meant that years of exposure to the elements had taken a severe toll. The stucco and plywood construction, meant to support thousands of pounds of stone railing, was on the brink of catastrophic failure. Without any metal beams to reinforce it, the structure was literally hanging by a thread.

Building a Solid Foundation. We knew the first step was to tear everything down—every last bit of the old deck had to go. Safety was our top priority, and there was no salvaging what was there. We started from scratch, installing solid metal beams to ensure the new deck would stand strong for decades. Around these, we placed cosmetic beams that maintained the villa’s aesthetic while providing essential structural support. Metal rails were also added, not just for safety but to enhance the overall stability of the structure.

Designing with Precision. One of the more intricate aspects of the project was the installation of a linear drain system. This wasn’t just about functionality; it was about preserving the villa’s luxurious appearance. We designed a hidden drainage system that exits out of sight from the pool and covered patio areas. This ensures that the aesthetics remain uncluttered, with no unsightly drains disrupting the beautiful view.

Matching the Details as in the stucco finish and T&G (tongue and groove) ceilings to the rest of the villa was another challenge. The original colors had aged and weathered over time, making it difficult to find a perfect match. We had to go back and forth, experimenting with different shades and techniques to ensure that the new work would blend seamlessly with the existing structure. The goal was to make it look as if the new deck had always been there, aging gracefully alongside the rest of the home.

Bringing it All Together In the end, after much precision and attention to detail, everything came together beautifully. The colors, the finishes, and the patterned tiles aligned perfectly, resulting in a transformation that not only restored the integrity of the structure but also elevated the overall aesthetic of the Mediterranean villa. What was once a potential hazard is now a stunning, secure outdoor space that complements the timeless elegance of the home.

Quality Craftsmanship. This project was a testament to the importance of quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. We are proud to have brought new life to this Mediterranean villa, ensuring it remains a sight to see for many years to come.