GM De and all!
Wow. The house is stunning. Well done!
A question I would have for ya are finishes on the exterior.
1. The siding. Is it Vinyl or shiplap wood?
2. The beautiful porch and railings. WOOD? Finished with what? OR is it TREX ?
Just curious. In your climate I am thinking about the longevity of the surface finishes and how often you and mrs. De like to re-do and re-apply them.......
My father had at his home a very large deck/entertainment area where many a large party was held. Mom and him were big on social events and were people persons.
That deck and all railing was made from a TREX type material, meaning it was basically plastic covered exterior whichonly needed occasional cleaning off with a power washer but never needed boards or anything to be replaced or re=painted or stained.
When my son in law and daughter put in a very large deck off the back of their house it also was a trex deck. No maintenance except occasional cleaning.
So that was the basis of my questions for you. IF ya is going to have a bautiful frontage of yer home and mabe a deck off the other side, I would consider the harshness of winter and think about a more permanent material that you don't have to constantly be re-staining or painting...
Just thinking out loud De.
Gorgeous design. I love it!
micro... 
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