This deck was designed to extend an ADU into the trees — simple lines, sustainable materials, and thoughtful detailing throughout.

• Decking: all clear incense cedar from the Cow Creek Umpqua Tribe, milled from wildfire-salvaged logs. 

• Retaining wall: built with salvaged railroad ties, backfilled with soil, a french drain, and river rock — raising the grade so the deck meets the tree line without a railing cutting across the view.

• Stairs: space-saving winder stairs connect the deck smoothly to the ADU entry.

• Finish: sealed with a low-VOC product for warmth and durability.

• FSC framing lumber and incense cedar decking provided by Sustainable Northwest Wood 

The guardrail is still to come — a homeowner-built design in madrone branches that will add a personal, sculptural finish.

This project blends sustainability and craft, creating a deck that feels both grounded and suspended in the canopy.

​

Dorena, OR