For example:

• What feature of your yard do you want to emphasize?
• What area of your yard do you use the most?
• Are you trying to create a private area to enjoy some quiet time, or do you need an area that is suitable for frequent entertaining and large gatherings?
• Do you want to feel like a part of your yard, or are you trying to separate yourself from a neighborhood eyesore?
• Do you want several areas with different purposes or do you want one big open deck?
• Do you want built-in seating? Planters? Railing? Curved edges? Angles? Storage?

Seating

Built in seating can serve many functions on a deck. A built in bench is a great way to provide seating for several people without sacrificing a lot of space. By creatively positioning seating, it can also be used to focus everyone's attention to (or away from) a particular feature of your yard or deck. Seating can be used to form a "conversation area" on your deck. Seating can also be used to define the edge of the deck, and can even be used to segment the deck into separated spaces. Some seating also doubles as storage space.

Railing

When a deck has a handrail, it is typically the most prominent feature of a deck. Although normally thought of as edging, handrails also help to determine the style of the deck. Handrails on a deck can help to create a more private space. When the handrail is accompanied by matching gates, it can also be used to keep children and pets on or off of your deck.

Privacy Screens

Maybe you would like to have a hot-tub on your deck. Maybe your neighbors windows overlook your deck area, or maybe you just want a little more privacy. Whatever the reason, a privacy screen may be just what your deck needs. We have several varieties of privacy screens, and all of them can be tailored to suit your specific needs. Some offer total seclusion, while others just provide a moderate amount of privacy.

Lighting

Lighting can also provide a nice finishing touch to your deck. Lighting can be used to accent a particular feature of your deck, or it can be used to illuminate a level change or a set of steps to provide safe passage.

Multi-Level Decks

If your deck will have several functions, then a multi-level deck can be a great way to create separate areas with distinct uses. Perhaps you want an eating area, a gathering area, and a more secluded conversation area. This can all be easily accomplished with a multilevel deck layout.

Steps

Steps can be much more than just a passageway to your yard. A large wrap-around step can make a deck seem very open to the surrounding yard. Extra wide steps can double as seating. Angled steps can add a decorative touch to your deck.