As the days get longer and the weather starts to improve, many homeowners begin looking at ways to upgrade and make better use of their outdoor spaces. One project completed last year by local company Ewan MacLean Joinery perfectly highlights how thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and locally sourced Scottish timber can completely transform a garden area.
At Logie Timber, we work exclusively with home-grown Scottish timber, all sourced locally and milled here in Moray. It’s always fantastic for us to see our timber used in projects that not only look beautiful but create spaces that clients can genuinely enjoy for years to come.
Creating an Outdoor Living Space
Ewan MacLean and his colleague Kevin were approached by a client looking to breathe new life into a fairly underutilised area to the rear of their bungalow. The vision was to create a functional yet relaxing outdoor living space where the client could enjoy long summer evenings surrounded by nature.
Following initial discussions, the project was broken down into three key stages:
- Recladding the bungalow gable end
- Constructing a pergola-style pagoda
- Installing a new decking area
Before work began, the client visited the sawmill to look through samples and better understand the different species and profiles available. During the visit, we explored options in both Douglas fir and larch, looking at off-saw and planed finishes, along with smooth, brushed and grooved decking profiles.
One topic we are often asked about is grooved decking. While there can sometimes be a perception that grooved decking offers better grip underfoot, we generally find that grooved profiles tend to hold moisture more readily, which can lead to increased maintenance over time. Smooth or brushed decking often proves a more practical long-term solution, although we are always happy to supply grooved profiles if preferred.
Choosing the Right Timber
After reviewing the options, the client selected:
- Douglas fir smooth decking
- Douglas fir shadow gap cladding
- Chunky Douglas fir post and beam sections for the pagoda
Douglas fir was chosen for its excellent durability, warm appearance, and cost-effectiveness compared to larch, while still offering fantastic performance externally.
For the decking installation, Ewan fixed the boards using Rothoblaas SCI 5×60 stainless steel screws, ensuring there would be no rust staining or discolouration as the timber naturally aged. To improve slip resistance underfoot, we recommended Treatex Anti-Slip Oil, which works particularly well on decking applications.
The cladding profile selected was our popular shadow gap profile, giving a clean contemporary appearance which tied in beautifully with the rest of the build.
For the pagoda structure, Ewan opted for:
- 150 x 150mm PSE Douglas fir posts
- 50 x 150mm Douglas fir rafters
The substantial dimensions gave the structure a strong architectural feel while maintaining consistency with the rest of the project.
Quality Matters
All timber supplied for this project was produced in our Premium grade, meaning at least one full face consisted of heartwood — the highest quality and most durable section of the timber.
We also offer Standard grade timber, which contains a mix of heartwood and sapwood and is often better suited to projects where the timber will be treated or painted.
At Logie Timber, quality control is hugely important to us, and it’s something we discuss regularly with clients visiting the mill.
Attention to Detail
Ewan began the build with the shadow gap cladding installation, carefully preparing the wall using vertical battens and counter battens to ensure good airflow behind the boards. Ventilation at both the top and bottom of the cladding helps prevent moisture build-up and promotes the long-term health of the timber.
Additional detailing included:
- 35-degree cuts to the bottom of the boards to create a drip edge
- Insect mesh installed behind the cladding to maintain airflow while preventing infestation
These details may not always be immediately visible once the project is complete, but they are critical in ensuring the timber performs well for many years to come.
The next stage saw the installation of the pagoda structure using Rothoblaas R40 adjustable post supports, which lifted the posts clear from the ground to reduce the risk of moisture damage and allow for easier levelling during installation.
Bringing the Space Together
The final stage was the installation of the brushed Douglas fir decking. Once the subframe had been completed, the decking came together quickly and completely transformed the space.
The finished result successfully tied together all three elements of the project:
- The contemporary shadow gap cladding
- The bold Douglas fir pagoda
- The warm natural decking area
The outcome is a stunning outdoor space designed for relaxing, entertaining, and enjoying long summer evenings.
Supporting Local Craftsmanship
Ewan MacLean Joinery is a local company undertaking everything from full house builds and extensions through to bespoke garden projects such as this one.
At Logie Timber, it’s always rewarding to see what can be achieved when high-quality, locally sourced Scottish timber is placed in the hands of skilled local tradespeople.
If you are considering a garden project, cladding upgrade, decking area or bespoke timber feature, we would be delighted to help guide you through the process.
