Terrace Design Ideas: Ground-Level, Sunken, and Raised

Terraces extend living space outdoors. Three main types, each with distinct construction needs:

Ground-Level Terrace

Simplest. Flooring options:

• Concrete (screeded, with drainage slope)
• Turf (prep like a lawn)
• Flagstones on sand/gravel base; plant grass or groundcover in joints
• Split hollow clay tiles, rough side down
• Exposed aggregate (cement, sharp sand, pebbles) in 2×4 forms
• Redwood/cypress blocks on sand over compacted gravel
• Unmortared brick on 2–4″ tamped sand; sand in joints for grass

Sunken Terrace

Below grade—cool on hot days. Requires retaining wall to hold back soil. Excavate 5–6″ below finished level. Sand/gravel base. Finish per preference.

Raised Terrace

Starts at house level, rises at outer edge. Retaining wall essential. Leveling is the main challenge. Drainage via central drain to tile line or piping through wall.

Choose the type that fits your topography and lifestyle.