In the world of custom construction, there is a distinct difference between building for “now” and building for “forever.” At the 2026 NADRA (North American Deck and Railing Association) Awards, that distinction was celebrated on a national stage.
We are incredibly proud to announce that Solid Ground has been awarded Third Place in the Framing Over $250k category. This recognition isn’t just about the beauty of a finished space; it’s a testament to the invisible strength that holds a dream together. It is an acknowledgment of engineering excellence, architectural competence, and a commitment to craftsmanship that goes bone-deep.
The Vision: A Legacy in the Making
When our clients approached us to design the outdoor living space for their “forever home,” the mandate was clear: it must endure. While the initial concepts leaned toward traditional wood framing, the project’s scope demanded something more revolutionary.
To support a vision this grand, we needed a foundation that wouldn’t warp, rot, or settle. We pivoted to a full steel-framed infrastructure, ensuring the luxury on the surface was matched by unwavering strength below.
The Skeleton of Strength: Behind the Build
Looking at the framing of this project, you see a departure from industry norms. We utilized structural steel wall studs and fourteen-gauge steel floor joists. Unlike wood, which can move and settle over time, this steel “skeleton” keeps the massive structure perfectly level and secure.
This photo of our steel framing in progress demonstrates the level of architectural competence the judges sought—solving real-world problems for homeowners by building a structure that is structurally sound and built to endure over time.
The Engineering Marvel
The judges at NADRA look far beyond the surface. They evaluate projects based on structural integrity, innovation, and the ability to solve complex architectural challenges. Our winning entry stood out for its “skeleton”—a sophisticated web of:
- New Castle Steel cores for unparalleled stability.
- Fourteen-gauge steel floor joists to provide a rock-solid, bounce-free foundation.
- Structural steel wall studs form the backbone of the integrated outdoor rooms.
By utilizing these materials, we solved the age-old problem of maintaining aesthetic elegance without sacrificing the structural longevity required for a project of this magnitude.
A Four-Season Masterpiece
The result is more than a deck; it is a 4,500-square-foot outdoor resort designed for year-round living. The project features:
- The Water Feature: A 36,000-gallon pool anchored by a majestic 8-foot-tall waterfall.
- The Comfort: A massive screened deck and a custom louvered pergola featuring a dedicated changing room.
- The Power: To ensure the space remains a sanctuary in winter, we integrated 1 million BTUs of gas heating and 60,000 watts of electric heating for the pool and hot tub.
- The Finish: High-performance DuraLife Decking and James Hardie concrete siding wrap the steel frame in a low-maintenance, high-luxury aesthetic.
Project Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
| Total Area | 4,500 Square Feet |
| Pool Capacity | 36,000 Gallons with 8-foot Waterfall |
| Heating Power | ~1 Million BTUs Gas / 60,000 Watts Electric |
| Primary Framing | New Castle Steel & 14-gauge Joists |
| Exterior Finish | DuraLife Decking & James Hardie Siding |
Gratitude to Our Partners
Excellence is never achieved in a vacuum. This award is shared with our incredible partners: New Castle Steel Apollo Opening Roof Digger Specialties Inc. & RDI CAMO Fasteners.
We also thank the BBB for our continued accreditation, reflecting our commitment to honest, transparent service in every build.
Looking Ahead
Winning Third Place in a highly competitive national category reinforces our mission: to provide homeowners with outdoor solutions that are as durable as they are beautiful. We don’t just build decks; we build the solid ground upon which families create lifetimes of memories.
“Appearance alone would not suffice; the design needed to be structurally sound and built to endure over time.” — 2026 NADRA Judging Panel
Solid Ground is a custom deck builder serving our primary service area since our founding. The company specializes in the design and construction of outdoor living spaces, including decks, porches, and related structures for more than two decades.
