Inside Our Cedar Creek Lake Luxury Resort Transformation
How Buildometry Turned a Modest Lakefront Patio Into a Year-Round Entertainment Destination
When this Cedar Creek Lake family approached us about expanding their outdoor living space, they had a vision that went far beyond a simple patio addition. They wanted to transform their lakefront property into a comprehensive resort-style retreat where they could entertain large gatherings, enjoy the lake year-round, and create a space that truly maximized their waterfront investment. What started as a modest 10-foot covered patio became an extraordinary $800,000 outdoor living sanctuary that showcases exactly what’s possible when strategic design meets expert craftsmanship.
At Buildometry, we’ve spent over 30 years creating custom outdoor living spaces across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, and this Cedar Creek Lake project represents everything we’ve learned about designing for the Texas climate, understanding how families actually use their outdoor spaces, and building with meticulous attention to detail. Based in Rockwall and owner-operated, we worked hands-on throughout this entire transformation, collaborating closely with the homeowners to ensure every element perfectly matched their lifestyle. The result is a 32-foot covered entertainment area with a full outdoor kitchen, resort-style pool with infinity edge, custom fire pit lounge, and integrated smart technology that turns their backyard into a true outdoor destination. This project perfectly demonstrates how thoughtful planning and quality execution can transform ordinary lakefront properties into extraordinary year-round living spaces.
Solving the Structural Challenge: A 32-Foot Seamless Extension
The first challenge we tackled was extending the existing patio structure while maintaining perfect architectural harmony with their home. The property already featured a beautiful gable-roofed patio, but it extended only about 10 feet from the house and severely limited their entertaining potential. The family needed dramatically more space but wanted the addition to look like it had always been part of the original construction.
We designed a 32-foot extension using all-cedar construction with tongue-and-groove ceiling that perfectly matched the existing covered area. The engineering proved complex because we had limited elevation to work with due to existing windows, but we needed to maintain proper drainage for the metal roof above while keeping the ceiling flat and seamless below. To achieve the long 32-foot span without obstructing lake views, we installed a steel beam on one side hidden within the structure.
The homeowners specifically wanted retractable screens outside their kitchen area, which added another layer of complexity. Rather than simply adding posts, we built a separate soffit and beam line that allowed us to flush-mount the screens into both the posts and ceiling while maintaining the proper roofline, fascia, and soffit to match the existing house. This attention to detail ensures the 800-square-foot addition looks and feels like it was part of the original home design.
Creating True Year-Round Comfort for Texas Lakefront Living
One of this family’s top priorities was making their outdoor space usable every season, not just during perfect weather. They entertain frequently and wanted their extended family to gather comfortably whether it’s 100 degrees in July or 45 degrees in January. We achieved this through strategic placement of multiple climate control elements throughout the space.
We installed several ceiling fans positioned precisely where the family planned their furniture arrangements to ensure optimal air circulation over dining and lounge areas. For heating, we mounted overhead infrared heaters in specific locations based on where people would actually gather. We actually relocated these heaters three times during construction as the homeowners refined their floor plan, demonstrating the importance of really understanding how you’ll use a space before finalizing permanent fixtures.
Beyond temperature control, we added flush-mounted retractable screens that protect from insects while preserving unobstructed lake views, and installed a mosquito misting system using all stainless steel lines throughout. We specifically avoided plastic lines because the intense Texas sun deteriorates them quickly. This system runs on a timer and can be activated before the family comes outside, significantly reducing mosquito presence around the entertainment areas. We also coordinated speaker placement, Wi-Fi extenders to ensure strong connectivity throughout the outdoor space, security cameras, and custom recessed lighting that the homeowners specifically preferred for the aesthetic.
Building an Outdoor Kitchen That Rivals Interior Spaces
The outdoor kitchen became the true centerpiece of this transformation. Rather than a basic grill station, we designed and built a massive L-shaped kitchen featuring granite countertops and all stainless steel appliances that create a surprisingly contemporary look against the rustic cedar and Oklahoma stone architecture. The design was actually a collaboration between the pool builder, the homeowners, and our team.
We installed a fully functional sink with garbage disposal so the family can prep, cook, and clean entirely outdoors. One of the coolest features we added are pop-up electrical outlets that sit perfectly flush with the granite countertop. With a light touch, they rise up to provide power for phones, serving platters, or small appliances, then disappear back into the countertop to maintain clean lines when not needed.
The kitchen placement was strategic. We positioned it so the cook can engage with guests throughout the covered patio area while maintaining efficient workspace. The family wanted to be able to look out from inside their house and see clear through to the lake and pool without major obstructions, so we carefully placed the support posts exactly where the original shorter patio posts had been, just extended further back. This created the open sightlines they wanted while providing the structural support required for the 32-foot span.
Integrating the Pool, Fire Features, and Landscaping Into One Resort Experience
This project included a complete pool and landscape transformation that we coordinated alongside the structural work. The family upgraded to a full resort-style pool featuring a massive tanning ledge, full spa, and infinity edge that visually extends into Cedar Creek Lake itself. The pool surface includes porcelain pavers that we carefully color-matched with the colored concrete overlay we installed on the covered patio floors, creating seamless visual flow between the different areas.
We designed and built a custom fire pit area with built-in stone seating that overlooks both the pool and the lake. The homeowners had custom cushions made for the stone seating because while stone looks beautiful, it’s not comfortable for extended lounging without padding. One unique feature we incorporated is a lexan viewing window installed in the pool wall, creating what we call a “human observation tank” where you can watch swimmers both above and below the waterline, similar to zoo exhibits with marine animals.
We replaced all the grass areas around the pool with artificial turf for zero-maintenance greenery that stays lush and green year-round, making everything else pop even during winter months. We added custom stonework planters and built a wheelchair-accessible ramp with ledger stone and travertine details so the family could easily transport coolers and supplies between the house and their boat dock without carrying everything down steps. Thoughtful lighting was installed throughout the ramp, around the pool deck, and in the fire pit area to extend usability well into the evening.
The Investment: Understanding What $800,000 Delivers
This comprehensive Cedar Creek Lake transformation totaled $800,000 all-in, covering the 32-foot structural extension, complete outdoor kitchen, pool renovation and upgrades, custom fire pit with built-in seating, all landscaping and stonework, artificial turf installation, technology integration throughout, and every finishing detail. It’s a significant investment, but it’s important to understand exactly what this family received.
They now have a property that functions like a private resort. The covered entertainment area alone added 800+ square feet of usable, climate-controlled outdoor living space. They can comfortably host 50+ people for gatherings, cook entire meals outside without going back into the house, and use the space year-round regardless of weather. More importantly, this is a family that spends significant time at their Cedar Creek Lake property. They wanted a space they could enjoy with extended family and friends, and they now have exactly that.
For lakefront properties in high-demand North Texas locations, outdoor living investments like this translate directly into property value. Buyers specifically seek move-in ready waterfront homes with exceptional outdoor entertainment areas, and properties with quality improvements command premium pricing. But beyond resale value, this family fundamentally changed how they experience their lakehouse. Instead of cramped outdoor space that limited gatherings, they have a comprehensive resort that brings people together.
Thinking about transforming your own Texas lakefront property? This Cedar Creek Lake project showcases what’s possible when you work with experienced outdoor living specialists who understand both design and execution. Contact Buildometry today to discuss your vision. Our Rockwall-based team brings over 30 years of custom outdoor living expertise to projects across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, from Cedar Creek Lake to Lake Ray Hubbard and beyond. We’d love to show you how strategic design and quality craftsmanship can transform your backyard into an extraordinary outdoor destination.