Building in San Marcos
San Marcos has grown substantially, and its housing reflects that: established older neighbourhoods alongside large newer developments, often on hillside lots.
Slope shapes outdoor projects here more than anywhere else in the county. A deck that steps down a grade uses the site rather than fighting it, and needs far less structure than a single platform built out over the fall. Level changes also separate a dining area from a lounge without building anything that blocks a view.
Drainage deserves attention on graded lots. Paving changes where water goes — a surface that used to absorb rain now sheds it — and that water has to have somewhere to travel that is not toward the house.
Inland heat and strong sun are the other factors. Finishes weather faster on south and west elevations, and shade structures need to account for low afternoon light rather than just overhead sun.
