When the North American Deck and Railing Association announced winners at their 16th Annual Awards Celebration in Clearwater Beach, Florida, Connecticut had reason to celebrate. Outdoor Space Builders earned third place in the Framing Under $70k category at the 2025 NADRA National+ Deck Competition, adding another accolade to their growing collection of industry awards.
Competing on a National Stage
NADRA’s National Deck Competition draws entries from deck building professionals across North America and beyond. Projects are evaluated by a panel of industry experts on criteria including use of space, innovation, degree of difficulty, and evidence of craftsmanship. Placing in this competitive field requires technical excellence and the ability to deliver exceptional results that stand out among the best work in the country.
The Framing category specifically recognizes the structural foundation that makes great outdoor living spaces possible. While finished decking materials and design elements often capture attention, experienced builders know that quality framing determines a project’s longevity, safety, and structural integrity. This recognition validates what Outdoor Space Builders has practiced for over three decades: excellence starts with the foundation.
Three Decades of Building Excellence
Outdoor Space Builders has an origin story unlike most construction companies. Co-founders Don and Joe came from unexpected backgrounds—a graphic artist and a chef—who found themselves unfulfilled in their careers and dreaming of something different. They shared a vision of working outside, with their hands, creating something tangible and lasting.
Together, they launched a home remodeling business in the early 1990s, learning the trades and honing their craftsmanship on projects throughout Connecticut. But outdoor construction captured their passion in a way interior work never did. As they like to say, they started building decks when it wasn’t cool.
That head start proved valuable. When the world changed during lockdown and families suddenly rediscovered their backyards, Don and Joe recognized an opportunity. Homeowners deserved access to specialized outdoor living builders focused exclusively on creating exceptional outdoor spaces. The partners pivoted entirely, transforming from general remodelers into dedicated outdoor living specialists.
Recognition From Industry Leaders
The NADRA award joins an impressive collection of honors that reflect Outdoor Space Builders’ commitment to quality. The company has received the Struxure Commercial Project of the Year 2024, an Azek Deck Award, the Tiva Deck of the Month designation, and the 2025 Perfect Plug Champion recognition. Each award represents validation from manufacturers and industry organizations that set the highest standards for outdoor construction.
These achievements stem from principles Don and Joe established from day one: quality craftsmanship, premium materials, and unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction. With more than 3,000 completed projects across Connecticut, they’ve built their reputation one backyard at a time.
What Sets Award-Winning Work Apart
Several factors distinguish Outdoor Space Builders from typical contractors. As a family-owned company, they maintain personal accountability on every project. Their fully in-house teams mean no subcontractors, just skilled craftsmen who take pride in their work. Partnerships with industry-leading manufacturers ensure access to premium materials, while 3D design capabilities let homeowners visualize their project before construction begins.
The company stands behind every deck with a lifetime workmanship warranty, demonstrating confidence in their construction quality. Financing options make outdoor living projects accessible to more Connecticut families.
Building Memories Across Connecticut
For Outdoor Space Builders, the company philosophy says it best: life’s a deck, build it. Your outdoor space should be where memories are made, where families gather, and where you can escape the everyday. This national recognition confirms what Connecticut homeowners have known for years: Outdoor Space Builders delivers exceptional results.
Ready to work with an award-winning team? Contact Outdoor Space Builders today and experience the difference that 30 years of excellence makes.