Creating Your Unique Deckspace

When it comes to designing a backyard escape, simple can be best. Far from being boring, a simple deck design featuring bold, clean lines can create a wonderful backdrop to show off nature’s beauty.

At its best, a deck represents a transition from the house to the outdoors. It can be a simple extension of the house, or a separate outdoor room, linked to the house by a pathway. And just as the rooms inside your home serve different needs, a well-designed deck should be multifunctional.

When planning a deck, consider how it will be used by your family. Will you do a lot of entertaining? Should there be a play area for children or grandchildren? Would you like to incorporate a hot tub or gazebo into the deck area? If so, creating different levels of deck area will add to the functionality of the space. You could opt for a large main deck with different levels for a play area, conversation and dining areas, sun or shade. Different elevations also allow you to build your outdoor living rooms in stages, adding to it each year as the budget allows.

When deciding on a deck design, take into account the surrounding landscape. Building around natural barriers and working in existing trees and gardens can increase the beauty of your deck.

A clever deck design can also turn problem yards into showpieces:

• Boring exteriors are given interest when decks wrap around the house, opening up indoor living space to the outside.
• Multi-level decks create terraces of outdoor space on sharply-sloping and ravine lots.
• Uneven lots become useable living space with a simple platform deck.
• Unsightly views can be masked by lattice panels that serve as a backdrop for hanging plants and vines.
• Even the smallest deck can provide built-in seating, raised garden beds and barbecue bays.
• If your yard has little shade or privacy, overhead trellises and privacy screens can protect you from the summer sun – and nosy neighbours.

With a bit of creativity and planning, you can create a beautiful outdoor oasis for summertime living that will give you years of enjoyment – and add value to your home.

Source: Homeservice Club of Canada