[askme233]

MOD: Can you please move posts to Homeowners forum. thx.

After reading through much of the archives, this looks like the forum I've been looking for. Thanks for all those who have posted.

I have a early 1800's house south of Philadelphia that has great land where some previously owner did a lot of great landscaping. Unfortunately, there is really no way to easily access the back area (about 2 acres) from the house, so our plan is to build a largish brick patio/terrace to add living space and yard accessability.

The biggest issue is the slope. at the back of the house, the first floor is about 4-5 feet from grade. By the time you are 16' out from the back of the house, you are 6+' below the level of the first floor.

We are not wild about a deck and we want the patio as close to the ground level to let onto the lawn. So that means the patio is at least 4-5 feet drop from any of the possible exits from the house (there are several that could become doorways).

We thought about having a huge flight of wide stairs, of several levels, of spiral staircases, etc. with no great ideas. Do you have any/seen some good solutions?

Also, although I am an avid DIYer, I am looking for a pro for this. Any recommendations in the South of Philly/Wilmington area?

WIll post pics when I figure out how.