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Martha Stewart has tackled enough renovation projects to know that every successful home improvement begins with one critical decision: choosing the right contractor. It’s advice she recently followed herself when partnering with Trex Co. to transform an outdoor living space at her Bedford, N.Y., farm. Pleased with the results, she’s now using Trex again at her coastal retreat in Seal Harbor, ME.
“Every renovation begins with finding the right team,” said Stewart. “Great contractors don’t just build, they help shape the design, solve problems before they happen and execute every detail beautifully. My experience with the Trex team and TrexPro contractors made choosing Trex again for my home in Maine an easy decision.”
Stewart relied on members of the TrexPro network of recommended deck builders for both projects. NJ Decks and Outdoor Living, a TrexPro Platinum builder, led construction in Bedford, while Professional Building Services, another Platinum-level builder, is overseeing the Maine installation.
A Backyard Retreat in Bedford
Stewart’s first project transformed the outdoor living space at “The Maple Avenue House,” a renovated 1970s ranch-style guest house on her Bedford farm. Designed as a seamless extension of the home, the expansive deck features Trex Transcend Lineage decking in Salt Flat accented by Trex Select Aluminum Railing in Burnished Bronze, and a custom Trex Pergola that supports climbing vines while providing welcome shade.
To bring her vision to life, Stewart partnered with NJ Decks & Outdoor Living, relying on the team’s planning, engineering and installation expertise. One notable challenge involved designing around a mature tree she was determined to preserve, transforming it into a defining feature of the finished deck.
“Martha had a clear vision and an incredible eye for detail,” said Judy Verblaauw, owner of NJ Decks & Outdoor Living. “Our job was to translate that vision into a deck built for long-term beauty, performance and durability. The collaboration made every decision intentional.”
During construction, Stewart frequently stopped by to check progress and even treated the crew to homemade peach cobbler and pomegranate lemonade.
A Modern Makeover in Maine
Stewart is now transforming her coastal retreat in Seal Harbor, where Professional Building Services is replacing two aging wood decks with a more cohesive outdoor living space.
The project includes Trex Transcend Lineage decking in Biscayne, black Trex Select Aluminum Railing, Trex Fascia and custom-wrapped posts and beams. In addition to updating the home’s aesthetic, the redesign brings the decks into compliance with current building codes while creating a more functional layout.
“This project required much more than replacing old decks,” said Jordan Ciaraldi, co-president and owner of Professional Building Services. “We’re reimagining the entire outdoor space, bringing it up to current code while creating a design that feels cohesive with the home and its surroundings. Martha has a clear vision, and our job is to bring that vision to life with craftsmanship, careful planning and attention to every detail.”
“Martha values organization, efficiency and precision, so working together was a natural fit,” added Joe Ciaraldi, co-president and owner of Professional Building Services. “From the very first conversation, there was a high level of trust and collaboration between our teams. That’s what every successful project is built on. When homeowners and contractors communicate openly and work toward the same vision, the entire process is smoother and the finished result is even better.”
Tips for Finding the Right Contractor
Based on her recent renovation experiences, Stewart offers five tips for choosing the right decking contractor:
- Imagine Yourself on the Deck: Start with a clear vision for how you’ll use your outdoor space and make sure your contractor knows that.
- Background Check: Research contractors thoroughly, reviewing previous projects and customer feedback. Verify licenses, insurance and experience with your preferred decking materials.
- Get It In Writing: Request detailed written estimates and compare more than just price.
- Ask Away: Don’t be afraid to ask questions about products, construction methods, warranties and best ways to communicate.
- Up to Code: Work with professionals who understand local building codes and will manage permits and inspections.
“When you’re making a permanent addition to your home, expertise matters,” Stewart noted. “The right builder helps you make informed decisions from the very beginning, giving you confidence that your investment will be beautiful, functional and built to last.”
“When someone as experienced as Martha Stewart chooses Trex for two of her own homes, it reinforces what we’ve always believed – that exceptional products and exceptional builders go hand in hand,” said Jodi Lee, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Trex Company. “That’s the experience we want every Trex customer to have.”
For more information, design inspiration and updates on Martha Stewart’s deck projects, follow @trexcompany on Instagram or visit Trex.com.
