Business Details
23 Years
experience
Custom Outdoor Living Spaces in North Atlanta
Exterior Design + Decks has been crafting premium outdoor living spaces in North Atlanta since 2003. As a family-owned business led by Richard Thomas and Valiant Nielsen, we combine over two decades of industry experience with a commitment to personalized service. Our team specializes in designing and building high-end decks, porches, sunrooms, pergolas, and custom outdoor kitchens tailored to each client's lifestyle. With an A+ Better Business Bureau rating and six consecutive Consumer Choice Awards, we prioritize quality craftsmanship, transparent communication, and customer satisfaction. Our process begins with an in-home consultation to understand client visions, followed by 3D design renderings and a detailed timeline.All projects utilize premium materials like Trex decking and steel framing while maintaining clean, organized job sites. We serve over 20 North Atlanta communities, including Roswell, Dunwoody, and Marietta, ensuring each project aligns with architectural integrity and functional needs. Our hands-on approach guarantees owner involvement throughout construction, while Buildertrend software provides clients with real-time project visibility. With liability-insured crews and a track record of transforming outdated spaces into award-winning designs, we remain North Georgia's trusted partner for luxurious outdoor living solutions.
Services
Decks
Porches
Pergolas
Sunrooms
Outdoor Kitchens
Patio Installation
Outdoor Fireplaces
Outdoor Lighting
Pool Pavilions
Composite Decking
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We hold an A+ Better Business Bureau rating and six Consumer Choice Awards
- Owners Richard Thomas and Valiant Nielsen supervise every project personally
- We utilize 3D rendering technology for precise design visualization
- Our team maintains full liability and workers' compensation insurance
- We use premium materials including Trex decking and steel framing systems
Associations and certifications
- Better Business Bureau
- Consumers Choice Award
What people say
Helpful and professional
Excellent job
Reasonably priced
Work completed on time
Stand behind their work
Services
Custom Decks
We design and construct custom decks using premium materials like Trex composite and pressure-treated lumber. Our decks feature steel framing systems for durability and include multi-story, poolside, and floating designs. Each project includes 3D renderings and detailed material selections to match architectural styles while increasing property value.
Sunrooms
Our three- and four-season sunrooms provide protected outdoor spaces with full climate control options. Projects include custom window systems, insulated roofs, and seamless integration with existing structures. We handle permitting and electrical work while maintaining energy efficiency through premium glass packages.
Pergolas
Custom pergolas create shaded gathering spaces using maintenance-free vinyl or wood materials. Our designs incorporate built-in lighting, ceiling fans, and retractable canopy systems. Each structure receives a reinforced foundation and precise alignment with existing outdoor features for cohesive aesthetics.
Outdoor Kitchens
High-end outdoor kitchens feature durable stone countertops, commercial-grade appliances, and weather-resistant cabinetry. We design layouts for optimal workflow while incorporating plumbing and electrical systems. Projects include pizza ovens, wet bars, and integrated storage solutions tailored to entertaining needs.
Screened Porches
Our screened porches provide insect-free outdoor enjoyment with durable aluminum screening and custom roof systems. Projects include lighting upgrades, ceiling fans, and hardwood flooring options. We ensure proper ventilation and weather sealing while maintaining aesthetic continuity with home architecture.
People
Richard Thomas
Owner
As co-founder, Richard Thomas brings over 20 years of construction expertise to each project. He oversees structural engineering and timelines while maintaining quality control standards across all service areas.
Valiant Nielsen
Owner
Co-owner Valiant Nielsen manages design consultations and client relations, leveraging his architectural background to translate concepts into functional outdoor spaces. He coordinates material selections and project scheduling.
Questions
What areas of Atlanta do you serve?
We service North Atlanta and surrounding areas including Alpharetta, Roswell, Marietta, Dunwoody, and Woodstock.
How long does a typical deck project take?
Most custom deck builds require 3-6 weeks from design to completion, depending on project complexity and materials used.
Do you offer material warranties?
Yes, we provide industry-leading warranties on all premium materials including 25-year Trex decking guarantees.
Can you build multi-level decks?
Our team specializes in complex designs including multi-story and two-level deck systems with integrated safety features.
Are permits included in your service?
We handle all necessary permitting and inspections for North Atlanta municipalities as part of our project management.
What's included in your consultation?
Our free consultation includes site evaluation, design concept discussion, material samples, and detailed cost estimation.
Reviews (3)
Jodi Elliott Morgan
Jun 30, 2017
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They rebuilt our deck and built a board walk around our pond. Excellent work! They showed up every day on time, completed the work and did an outstanding job.
Mercy Weiler
Mar 28, 2017
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Exterior Designs and Decks is the most professional and detailed oriented company I have ever worked with. I love their attentiveness and professionalism, not to mention their superb quality work and design. I would highly recommend them to anybody who is looking for a top rated company. I have recommended them to a lot of my personal friends and will continue to do so.
Don Diego
Mar 27, 2017
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I have spent much of 2016/2017 dealing with Contractors renovating my home and I have learned that there is no substitute for quality and integrity. Exterior Design and Decks not only did a great job on my floor renovation but they did exactly as planned, . on time and on budget. Great people, great experience!
