Ladue’s generous lots and rolling terrain are a gift, but a single flat deck rarely does them justice. Gentle grade changes, walkout basements, and sprawling oaks can leave a one-level build feeling like a missed opportunity. At Solid Ground, we treat that topography as raw material. As a trusted multi-level deck builder in Ladue, MO, we craft connected zones for dining, lounging, and grilling, each with its own purpose and its own view. Your yard ends up with more usable space and a natural flow from the back door to the lawn.
We build with your terrain, not against it. As a multi-level deck builder in Ladue, MO, we walk your slope, read the drainage patterns, track the sun through your oak canopy, and map your tree line before we draw a single layout. Many Ladue lots step down sharply behind older colonial and craftsman homes, and we shape our levels around that reality: a raised dining platform off the kitchen, a ground-level lounge near the lawn, each zone distinct but connected.
Multi-level decks give each activity its own spot. Kids can play on one tier while adults chat by the grill on another. With tiered decks, big Ladue parties spread out naturally, and small dinners still feel cozy instead of lost in open space while keeping everyone connected nearby.
Elevated decks need careful engineering, especially with Missouri's clay soil and freeze-thaw swings. We set deep footings, size beams correctly, and secure every stair. Each handrail deck section we build is sturdy, comfortable to grip, and styled to match your home.
Good custom deck design starts with how you live. We connect levels to doors, patios, and walkout basements, including split-level homes with unusual entry heights. Then we recommend composite materials that resist fading, moisture, and splinters across every tier.
When Tara and Tommy Holstein launched Solid Ground in 2009 as Barefoot Decks, they built their reputation through carefully planned, well-engineered projects. After returning to Missouri, they renamed the company Solid Ground and expanded into full outdoor living solutions. Today, Tommy brings decades of carpentry and sales experience, Tara oversees operations with close attention to detail, and their children contribute to design, project management, and media. Together, they bring practical experience and a family-driven approach to every complex outdoor build.
EXCELLENT Based on 57 reviews Posted on Google Jason RezabekTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an outstanding experience with Solid Ground. They helped us design and build a beautiful deck on our home this winter, and the results exceeded every expectation. Our project wasn’t simple — we had an existing roofline that created some unknowns — but their team handled every challenge with professionalism and creativity. They worked alongside us throughout the process, adjusting and refining the design as needed to make sure the final product was exactly what we wanted. Their craftsmanship is excellent, and just as importantly, they’re wonderful people with a wonderful crew. We couldn’t be happier with the finished deck and highly recommend Solid Ground to anyone looking for quality work and a great experience from start to finish.Posted on Google Dennis WhitesellTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Karen and I love the deck. The Apallo roof is awesome. Great crew. Will be planning phase 2 in the near future.Posted on Google Irene SchneiderTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an excellent experience with the Solid Ground team. Ian, Griffin, and Jakob came out to perform maintenance on our Apollo pergola at our new home, and they were outstanding from start to finish. The entire team was professional, punctual, knowledgeable, and collaborative. They took the time to explain what they were doing, answered our questions, and completed the work with great attention to detail. Their craftsmanship and commitment to quality were evident throughout the entire process. What impressed us most was their willingness to go above and beyond what was required. It’s refreshing to work with a team that genuinely cares about doing the job right and serving their customers well. Thank you, Ian, Griffin, and Jakob, for your hard work and excellent service. It was a pleasure working with you, and we highly recommend Solid Ground to anyone looking for quality work and a professional team!Posted on Google Melissa ShineTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Working with Solid Ground was a very positive experience from the beginning to the end of our deck project. From the first moment of working with Tommy on the design, reviewing all of our material options through the demolition of our old deck, and the construction of our new deck, Solid Ground delivered a high-quality experience and product. Griffin and his crew were top-notch! They made sure every detail was covered and that we were completely satisfied with the end result! Ian kept us informed of the progress of our project throughout, which made it easy to keep up with the progress. We would highly recommend Solid Ground for any deck or patio project!Posted on Google Sarah HinesTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have had a fantastic experience working with Solid Ground! From start to finish, they are professional, reliable, and truly care about the quality of work. Every detail is done with care and precision. On top of that, they’re just genuinely great people who are easy to communicate with and take pride in what they do. Highly recommend to anyone looking for beautiful, high-quality custom work!Posted on Google Final Touch Custom Patios & Retaining Walls, LLCTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic company!! From the ownership to the installers, these guys are amazing!! Their craftsmanship and attention to detail set them apart. So glad we found them!!Posted on Google George AdelmannTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I would highly recommend Solid Ground for any deck work. The team from Solid Ground were professional, courteous and did a good job with my deck. The team from Solid Ground tore down and replaced my old deck and now I have a larger, sturdier and great looking deck. It was a pleasure to work with Tommy, Tara, Ian and Colin.Posted on Google Michael MaggioTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The crew at Solid Ground are top notch. Great communication and execution. No need to look anywhere else. They're awesome!
Multi-level builds have more moving parts than a flat deck, but our pricing stays clear. Solid Ground rolls labor and materials into one total so you can see exactly where your money goes before a single board goes down.
We go over every line item before the first footing is dug. Solid Ground builds quotes around the full scope of your tiered project, so what you approve is what you pay. Our office is always available for any cost questions.
Not at all. Solid Ground will visit your property, study your slope, and walk you through tier and layout options at no charge. You leave the conversation knowing exactly what’s possible.
Multi-level builds aren’t just for Ladue. We’ve worked on sloped lots, walkout basements, and hillside yards all across the St. Louis metro. If your backyard drops, steps down to a lower patio, or opens out from a lower-level door, we can turn that into a connected series of outdoor spaces. We regularly take on projects in Wildwood, Chesterfield, Ballwin, Glendale, Kirkwood, Richmond Heights, Clayton, Frontenac, and Town and Country, and we shape every design around the grade and the home it belongs to.