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I built a flat deck, but also built steps around the front two sides. For me, that made way more sense than a built in. It is easy to work on, and if I move and the new owners don't like spas, then no harm done. The steps split in the middle. It is hard to see, but if you look closely you will see the line right at the pergola post. So to access the panel, I simply pull the one side of the step away. Even if I need to pull both sides away, the pergola can stay since the steps are built around it. Trick huh? The pergola posts look like they are solid cedar, but I built them hollow. That way I was able to run wire for speakers in two corners and I also run an extention cord through from time to time for Christmas lights, etc. The steps running all the way around both sides are really nice and safe after too much wine :-)Steven~