When Custom Deck Design Meets Bunny Protection

Pet bunnies aren’t usually part of a deck design brief—but for our Comox homeowner clients, keeping them safe from neighbouring eagles was an important part of creating a better outdoor space their whole family could enjoy.

The new deck also needed a smaller footprint, wide centred stairs and concealed storage for landscaping supplies.

The existing deck was large but not functional. Because the stairs were on the opposite side of the door, the flow getting to the backyard was disrupted. The deck had also reached the end of its life, with boards rotting and holes forming.

Instead of rebuilding the same deck, the homeowners saw an opportunity to create a new deck, customized to how they used their yard.

A Smaller Footprint, Chosen on Purpose

Downsizing the deck returned more open space to the backyard while still providing plenty of room to sit, gather and enjoy being outside.

The new layout feels better proportioned to the home and offers better flow to the yard below.

A Better Connection to the Backyard

The new stairs were centred directly on the patio doors, creating a natural path between the house, deck and yard.

Added Protection for the Bunnies

The tall front posts are the deck’s most distinctive feature, and they serve two purposes.

The posts allow outdoor lights to be strung back to the house, creating a comfortable atmosphere in the evenings. The lines overhead also help deter eagles, giving the homeowners’ pet bunnies added protection while they’re outside.

It’s not a feature every deck needs—but it’s exactly what made sense for this household.

Concealed Landscaping Storage

Pressure-treated skirting gives the underside of the deck a clean, finished appearance. A built-in gate keeps the space accessible for storing wheelbarrows, landscaping tools and other outdoor supplies.

The storage stays close to the garden without adding clutter to the yard.

Built for Years Outside

The entire deck was constructed from pressure-treated lumber for durability in Vancouver Island’s climate.

Every detail—from the smaller footprint and centred stairs to the tall posts and gated storage—was planned around how the homeowners wanted to use their property.

The finished deck doesn’t just replace what was there. It creates a more practical backyard for the people and pets who call it home.

Planning a Custom Deck?

B.I.G. Timber Contracting builds thoughtfully planned custom decks, stairs and outdoor features throughout the Comox Valley and Campbell River.

Planning a deck designed around your home and how you live? Start your project with us.