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Decked Out for Summer
by J. ChristophersonSummer is a great time to get out on the deck, fire up the barbeque and enjoy yourself with friends and family. With a little planning and preparation your deck can be the center of attention all summer long. Here are some ideas to help you design a deck that will provide a special place for this summer's sitting, reading, eating and sharing special memories.
Where should a deck be located?
A deck serves as an additional room and should be located off the kitchen or nook so that food transport is simple. Putting a deck off the kitchen is also ideal because the floor covering is generally more durable and can take the traffic with less maintenance.
What level does the deck connect with the house?
Carrying trays of food and drinks down a set of stairs is at best inconvenient and could be a safety issue. That's why it is best to have the deck at the same level as the floor inside the house.
Where is the maximum access to the sun, and do you want maximum access?
Decks which are on the north and east sides of the home are often very cool, even cold. If the decks are on the south and west sides of the home, they will be warmer. Decks which are exposed to the heat can be temperature-controlled by adding trellises with vines, adding shrubs around the edge, or adding umbrellas or awnings which can be added or removed as necessary. Remember that sun cannot be added, but shade can be created!
Decide the function of the deck
Is it a grand entrance to the garden, the pool or the house? Is it simply another room for quiet summer breakfasts for two? Is it a place to read or to suntan? Is the deck for those noisy family affairs which need more than one seating area, or is it a place to cook as well as eat? Make these decisions to determine options for the deck.
Some things to consider about the deck size
Include allowances for walking and seating space (measuring with the chairs pulled out as though people were seated). Remember to include storage space for cooking tools and barbecue equipment and a storage area for the chairs and tables when they are not in use.
The next step is to determine the budget
Include the choice of initial, as well as finishing, materials, the overhead awnings, umbrellas etc., as well as the aesthetics, such as flower containers and built-in seating.
Choosing furniture and accessories
Materials that are exposed to the elements should be durable, safe, and in character with the rest of the home. Be discriminating and take the time to consider what goes together. A great-looking deck adds value to your home. The reverse is also true. Start with a dream list and rework it as necessary to match the pocket book.
Some accessories that could be added to give the deck maximum use could include lights, heaters, fireplaces, extra wide stairs, insect control devices, screens and if you’re really lucky a hot tub. Furniture can include chairs, tables, counters, coffee tables, or a swing. Add accessories for privacy such as screens and trellises.
Now you're ready to sit back and relax in the warm summer months to come on the deck of your dreams.
~ J. Christopherson has been an interior designer as well as a builder for the past 20 years in Vancouver, Canada.