Kitting out your deck space

You picked the type of wood, sealant, and style. You did your research and either hired the most professional company you could find, or you chose to go the DIY route. Your deck has been built, but it’s still not complete. What does your deck need for it to become an extension of your home?

To make the most of your deck you need to decide on what tone you want to set with the accessories. Some people like their decks to have an identity separate from their homes. They might choose to create a tropical oasis within their dour suburbia surroundings. In this case grass furniture and bright colours might be the way to go.

Others prefer to think of their decks as sanctuaries against the hurly burly pace of life, and so create a space that enables quiet meditation. Soft bamboo wind chimes may be chosen to compliment a burbling water feature. Trellis screens covered with green vines can effectively cut the area off from prying eyes and give the illusion of being far from harried civilisation. Abundant greenery may prove less distracting than bright flowers. Herbs provide subtle, clean scents that can aid in the clearing and focussing of the mind.

Lighting is important in setting mood regardless of the tone you’re trying to achieve. Colourful lights work well in cheerful, tropical settings, while soft, subdued lighting will be more appropriate for meditation.

If you’re going to use your deck as an area for simple relaxation and enjoyment, consider what you’re most likely to do when you’re out there. If you read to relax, make sure that the chairs are comfortable and that there is enough light for you to read into the night. Wicker chairs tend to work well for any purpose. Don’t forget to include cushions for the bony backside though; nothing impedes relaxation quite like numb nether regions.

Climate also plays a role in kitting out your deck. If the summer months get unbearably hot and winter is biting cold, consider various means to combat the elements. Big leafy plants work well as fans in a breeze, but you might also want to invest in some ‘green’, energy efficient cooling and heating mechanisms. Including a fireplace in your original design can ensure that you have full use of your deck all year round. It also adds significantly to the ambience, as people love to congregate around a good fire.

Lastly, let me draw your attention to the humble hammock. Swaying in a gentle breeze, shadows crisscrossing your body, ice cold drink within easy reach, hat cocked over one eye, the image is perhaps the acme of leisure. For this dream to become a reality you no longer need to plant trees directly opposite each other and wait seventy years for them to grow sufficiently for you to trust your weight to them. Portable hammocks provide an easy and inexpensive way to make the most of lazy Sunday afternoons. Go ahead, you know you want one.

Recommended sites:

http://landscaping.about.com/od/decksandarbors/tp/patio_deck.htm

http://landscaping.about.com/od/landscapedesignideas/a/outdoor_living.htm

Sandra wrote this article for the online marketers DeckPro deck and patio builders Leaders in the field of decking and patio construction.