A Stunning Two-Level Cedar Deck Built With DecksGo Hardware: O’Connor T.’s Backyard Transformation

When O’Connor T. set out to update his backyard, he didn’t just want a new deck — he wanted a space that felt warm, natural, and custom-built for gatherings. The result is a beautifully crafted two-level cedar deck complete with a small pergola, a clean set of stairs, and modern railing details that tie the entire space together.

And the best part?

The whole build was supported start to finish with DecksGo hardware.

From the low floating platform to the elevated landing and the pergola overhead, O’Connor used a mix of foundation, railing, and finishing products that helped him work faster, build stronger, and achieve a polished look that will last for years.

A Hybrid Deck Design That Works With the Landscape

O’Connor’s yard naturally sloped away from the house, making a two-tier design the perfect solution. The upper level sits flush with the patio doors for easy indoor-outdoor flow, while the lower floating platform creates an extended space for seating or a grill.

The entire project is built from cedar, bringing a warm glow to the final finish — especially after a fresh coat of stain.

But the hardware behind it is what made the structure simple, durable, and rock solid.

Image of a beautiful backyard with wooden stair case and deck. the railing is adorned with a white flowing curtain and the deck is decorated with seating and an umbrella

photo depicting a beautiful wood stained deck with stairs leading up to a wooden pergola

Foundation: A Floating Structure With Deck Foot Anchors

For the lower platform, O’Connor chose the Deck Foot Anchor with Flat Load Plate — the ideal setup for a floating style deck .

Using these anchors meant:

No excessive digging or concrete
A fast, self-installed foundation (using an impact wrench).
Ability to adjust post saddle position by 2-3" if helical pile is slightly off
A clean floating look around the edge of the structure

The flat load plate spreads the load over a wider surface, making it perfect for free-standing platforms like O’Connor’s.

It also keeps the hardware hidden beneath the deck — all strength, no visual clutter.

crushed stone layer with deck foot anchors installed in the ground showing the initial footing set up

diagram showing lateral adjustability of deck foot anchor saddle

fully framed upper section of the deck with joist tape applied

Titan post anchor kit on a white background

close up of the Titan post anchor supporting a 6x6 post with a post skirt hiding the hardware

Titan Post Anchors: Clean, Strong Support for Railings and the Pergola

For the upper-level railing and the pergola posts, O’Connor used Titan Post Anchors, which offer strong lateral resistance without bulky bracing.

They allowed him to secure:

The small privacy rail section with Snap’n Lock balusters
The stair rail posts
All four pergola posts

All while keeping the connection concealed and visually tidy.

These anchors let the cedar framing and pergola structure take center stage, with no oversized brackets stealing attention.

Snap’n Lock Balusters + Shadow Rail = A Modern, Clean Railing Setup

On both the stairs and the upper level, O’Connor used a combination of Snap’n Lock Balusters and Shadow Rail Connectors to create a railing that feels modern and handcrafted at the same time.

This setup gave him:

A secure, perfectly aligned baluster layout
A clean, low-profile bracket system
Fast installation with no special tools
A polished final look that ties into the pergola posts beautifully

The stair railings are especially sharp — simple, modern, and paired perfectly with the natural cedar.

Snap'n Lock Shadow Rail

GIF showing snap'n lock balusters being installed. Shows saddle being screwed in, baluster snapping in, and collar being tightened

GIF of shadow rail being installed on a wood post and then 2x4 being slid into the connector

The Final Result: Warm, Modern, and Built to Last

O’Connor’s project shows what’s possible when a homeowner pairs thoughtful design with smart hardware. The two levels flow naturally together, the pergola frames the seating area beautifully, and every connection point looks intentional.

And thanks to the Deck Foot Anchor, Titan Post Anchors, Snap’n Lock Balusters, and Shadow Rail connectors, the build is durable, stable, and clean from top to bottom.

This is the kind of project we love to see — creative, functional, and built with pride.