Many homes across Lakeville and the surrounding Dakota County area sit on lots that are anything but flat. Walkout basements, gradual slopes, and uneven grade are common in South Metro neighborhoods, and they have a real influence on how a backyard deck should be designed. A layout that works on level ground often needs rethinking on a sloped lot.
When the ground drops away from the house, a single flat deck can leave an awkward gap between the floor and the yard. That is where multi-level and raised designs come in, and there are a few things worth understanding before settling on a plan.
A multi-level deck breaks a large space into smaller zones that follow the natural grade of the yard. Instead of one tall platform, the deck steps down in stages, which can make the space feel more connected to the ground and easier to move through. Each level can take on its own purpose, such as dining near the door and lounging closer to the yard.
A raised deck makes use of the height a walkout lot creates. The elevated surface can capture better views and more sun, while the area underneath becomes potential space rather than wasted ground. How that lower area is finished depends on the design, but planning for it early matters.
Foundations carry extra weight in this conversation because of Minnesota's climate. Deck footings need to reach below the frost line so that winter freezing and spring thaw do not shift the structure over time. Depending on the site, that support may come from concrete footings, helical piers, or Diamond Piers, each suited to different soil and load conditions. Matching the foundation to the slope and soil is what keeps a raised deck stable for the long term.
Drainage and access also deserve attention on a graded lot. Water naturally moves downhill, so the way a deck meets the yard affects how that runoff behaves. Stairs and transitions between levels should follow how people actually move between the house and the yard.
For homeowners in Lakeville and across the South Metro, a sloped or walkout lot is not a limitation. With a design that works with the grade rather than against it, an uneven yard often becomes the foundation for a more interesting and better-used outdoor space. Decked Out Construction20730 Holyoke Ave Suite 146, Lakeville, MN 55044612-978-5553<a href="https://deckedoutconstruction.co/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">https://deckedoutconstruction.co/</a>

Dakota County

Minneapolis Metropolitan Area

Lakeville

Minnesota

How Lakeville's Sloped and Walkout Yards Shape...

Many homes across Lakeville and the surrounding Dakota County area sit on lots that are anything but flat. Walkout basements, gradual slopes, and...

How Lakeville's Sloped and Walkout Yards Shape Deck Design

Burnsville

Apple Valley-Rosemount

Eagan

Scott County

Shakopee

Hennepin County

Richfield

Inver Grove Heights

Mendota Heights

Eden Prairie

Edina

Rice County

Northfield

Airlake Airport

Join EAA Chapter 25 for a high-flying holiday fundraiser featuring a delicious pancake breakfast and free plane rides for kids ages 8-17. Admission is $12 for adults, $8 for kids ages 6-17, and children 5 and under or Pilots in Command eat for free.

Local Event: Father's Day Pancake Breakfast

Father's Day Pancake Breakfast

Join EAA Chapter 25 for a high-flying holiday fundraiser featuring a delicious pancake breakfast and free plane rides for kids...

Minnesota State Fair

The International Gem &amp; Jewelry Show Returns To The Minnesota State Fairgrounds! Shop Directly From Wholesalers &amp; Manufacturers. This show is OPEN TO THE PUBLIC for three days only.
International Gem &amp; Jewelry Show - St. Paul, MN June 26-28, 2026 At The Minnesota State Fairgrounds&nbsp;(Progress Center) 1265 Snelling Ave N, St Paul, MN 55108
***CHILDREN UNDER 9 NOT PERMITTED***
SHOW HOURS:
<ul><li>Friday, June 26: 12pm-6pm</li><li>Saturday, June 27: 10am-6pm</li><li>Sunday, June 28: 11am-5pm* *No admittance after 4pm Sunday.</li></ul>
<ol></ol>
TICKETS (Good For All Three Days)
<ul><li>Discounted Tickets : $6.00 (Must be purchased online. Credit card only.)</li><li>Standard Tickets : $8.00 (Can be purchased at the show. Cash only.)</li><li>Licensed Wholesale Buyers : FREE (Business license required. Pre-registration required before the deadline.)</li><li>Schools : FREE (School e-mail address required. Pre-registration required before the deadline.)</li></ul>
PARKING: Ample Parking Available On Site. Park in the Como Lot. Located at Packard St &amp; Como Ave.
ABOUT THE SHOW: Forget retail, shop directly from designers, wholesalers and manufacturers for the largest selection at the lowest prices! Shop from rows and rows of quality jewelry, gemstone, bead, jewelry supply and accessory dealers in a unique marketplace setting. Our environment breeds competition and ensures that you will get the best quality merchandise at rock-bottom prices. Find something for everyone when you visit America's favorite jewelry and gemstone marketplace!
Diamonds • Beads • Pearls • Opals • Semi &amp; Precious Gemstones • Engagement Rings • Turquoise • Fine Jewelry • Settings • Men’s Jewelry • Watches • Designer Accessories • Costume Pieces • Vintage &amp; Estate • Custom Jewelry • Findings • Chains • Jewelry Supplies • Fashion Accessories • Gifts • Jewelry Cleaning &amp; Repair • And Much More!
------------------------------------------------ MILITARY RECEIVES FREE ADMISSION: The International Gem &amp; Jewelry Show offers free admission to all active-duty military and veterans with current military identification (offer includes immediate family). Thank you for your service to our country. ------------------------------------------------
LINKS
<ul><li>Website :&nbsp;<a href="https://www.intergem.com/events/upcoming-shows/st-paul-mn-jewelry-show-june-26-28-2026" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://www.intergem.com/events/upcoming-shows/st-paul-mn-jewelry-show-june-26-28-2026</a></li><li>Exhibitor Listing :&nbsp;<a href="https://intergem.ungerboeck.com/prod/app85.cshtml?aat=31454a3876485446754465674c4f3838372b6f336264315a516c6165327435624c42657636355665794c513d" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://intergem.ungerboeck.com/prod/app85.cshtml?aat=31454a3876485446754465674c4f3838372b6f336264315a516c6165327435624c42657636355665794c513d</a></li><li>E-Mail Notification Sign-Up : <a href="https://www.intergem.com/sign-up/denver-co" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://www.intergem.com/sign-up/denver-co</a></li></ul>

Local Event: The International Gem & Jewelry Show - St. Paul, MN (June 2026)

Ramsey County

Saint Paul

The International Gem & Jewelry Show - St....

The International Gem & Jewelry Show Returns To The Minnesota State Fairgrounds! Shop Directly From Wholesalers &...

The International Gem & Jewelry Show - St. Paul, MN (June 2026)

K-Beauty Xperience MedSpa

At K-Beauty Xperience, we believe that true beauty emerges from the careful balance of science and artistry. Our approach combines the legendary skin-first philosophy of Korean beauty with proven medical-grade treatments, delivering results that honor both your natural beauty and your wellness journey.

Washington County

Washington

Cottage Grove

At K-Beauty Xperience, we believe that true beauty emerges from the careful balance of science and artistry. Our approach combines the legendary...

Sessions within 7-10 days!  Message for FREE consultation! 

Panoramic Perspectives Therapy and Training PA

We recommend our FREE consultation to get the best match for you and your mental health needs. If you are looking for a therapist you can trust who will help you explore root issues that keep you stuck AND help you learn some practical coping skills to get through your day- look no further! We have a pretty amazing set of experienced clinicians who are ready to help. Panoramic Perspectives services every member of your family. We see children ages 3+ (check out our playroom pix!). We also have clinicians who see tweens, teenagers, and adults both in-person at our Lakeville office, or online via telehealth. Crazy new offering, sessions available starting June 1, 2026.....we have a certified canine name Griffey who brings comfort into the therapy room so you can feel safe and ready to talk about hard stuff. CONSULT for FREE first! You get to consult for free with any of our therapists so that you get matched up with someone who really gets you. Call us or message through our website today. We accept most insurances but do see un-insured individuals who self-pay. Our intake process is very smooth, we do not want to add to your stress! Request a free consult, or appointment here: https://panoramicperspectives.com/appointment-request Invest in yourself. You are worth it. Commit to being intentional in doing something different and better. Start your healing journey today!

We recommend our FREE consultation to get the best match for you and your mental health needs. If you are looking for a therapist you can trust who...

Free In-Home Expert Kitchen Design Consult – Book Today

The Cabinet Store + Culina Design

Transform your kitchen with a FREE In-Home Design Consultation from The Cabinet Store, Apple Valley’s trusted leader in kitchen remodeling. Our expert designers bring the showroom to you, creating a stress-free experience right in the comfort of your own home. Here’s what you’ll get when you schedule your free consultation: Personalized Design Expertise – A dedicated kitchen designer will meet with you in your space, listen to your goals, and craft a tailored plan that fits your lifestyle, taste, and budget. Accurate Measurements – We take precise in-home measurements, ensuring your new kitchen design is practical, functional, and ready for installation without costly surprises. Exclusive Cabinet &amp; Countertop Options – Explore our wide range of premium cabinets, countertops, and finishes, all carefully curated for quality, durability, and timeless beauty. 3D Design Preview – See your dream kitchen before it’s built. Our technology lets you visualize layouts, colors, and finishes to make confident decisions. No Obligation, No Pressure – This consultation is truly free. Whether you’re ready to remodel now or just exploring ideas, our goal is to give you expert guidance and inspiration. Why choose The Cabinet Store? For over 20 years, homeowners across Apple Valley, Lakeville, Burnsville, and the greater Twin Cities have trusted us to deliver stunning kitchens on time and on budget. We handle everything from design to installation with craftsmanship and care, so you can focus on enjoying the process—and your new kitchen. ✨ Don’t wait—appointments fill quickly! Click below to book your Free In-Home Design Consultation today and take the first step toward the kitchen you’ve always wanted.

Transform your kitchen with a FREE In-Home Design Consultation from The Cabinet Store, Apple Valley’s trusted leader in kitchen remodeling. Our...

Custom Kitchen Cabinets & Remodeling in Apple Valley, MN

The Cabinet Store + Culina Design: Transforming Twin Cities Homes Since 2001 The Cabinet Store + Culina Design has proudly served the Twin Cities area for over two decades, establishing a reputation as a trusted leader in kitchen, bathroom, and home remodeling. Founded by brothers Luke and Scot Prettyman, our company is built on a commitment to quality, precision, and client satisfaction. We believe that every home should reflect its owner’s unique style, needs, and personality, and we work tirelessly to bring these visions to life. Located in Apple Valley, MN, The Cabinet Store + Culina Design offers a comprehensive showroom experience with over 6,000 square feet of inspiring displays. Our showroom serves as both a creative hub and a resource for clients, featuring full-scale kitchen and bath displays that highlight our partnerships with premium American-made brands such as Showplace Cabinetry and Cambria Quartz. These displays allow clients to see, feel, and envision what’s possible in their own homes. Our services go beyond beautiful spaces; they’re about creating functional, lasting environments. We provide end-to-end project solutions—from initial design concepts to material selection and expert installation. Our team includes highly skilled designers, cabinet makers, and finish carpenters who bring a wealth of experience to each project. With over 150 years of combined industry expertise, our staff is prepared to handle projects of any scale, from kitchen makeovers to full home transformations. One of the standout features of The Cabinet Store + Culina Design is our commitment to personalized service. Every client receives a complimentary design consultation to kick off the project, ensuring that each design aligns with their lifestyle and vision. Using innovative design tools and our team’s creative expertise, we help clients visualize their projects and make informed choices about materials, layout, and finishes. We’re also committed to sustainability and supporting American manufacturing. Our exclusive use of Showplace Cabinetry, a 100% USA-made cabinetry brand, reflects our dedication to quality and responsible sourcing. By partnering with American brands and using locally sourced materials, we not only support local craftsmanship but also ensure that each product meets rigorous quality standards. Each space is thoughtfully crafted to elevate its function while enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Whether it’s a modern kitchen remodel, a classic bathroom update, or an outdoor kitchen for entertaining, we create spaces that bring joy, style, and value to your home. Our philosophy is simple: we listen, we create, and we deliver. We approach each project as a collaborative journey, working closely with homeowners to ensure that every detail reflects their dream. Get A Free Design Consultation Today: https://TheCabinetStore.com

The Cabinet Store + Culina Design: Transforming Twin Cities Homes Since 2001 The Cabinet Store + Culina Design has proudly served the Twin Cities...

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Half Of Minnesotans Disapprove of New State...

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Also check out Father's Day Pancake Breakfast on the Lakeville Patch calendar

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Discover more in Lakeville

Find and sell treasures, hire and offer services. All in your community

Lakeville, MN|Local Classified|Gigs & Services|13h

How Lakeville's Sloped and Walkout Yards Shape Deck Design

Father's Day Pancake Breakfast

The International Gem & Jewelry Show - St. Paul, MN (June 2026)

K-Beauty Xperience MedSpa

Panoramic Perspectives Therapy and Training PA

The Cabinet Store + Culina Design

The Cabinet Store + Culina Design