Deck Design Ideas

As an extension of your home into the outdoors, your deck should express your own personal style. Choosing your deck patio furniture provides an opportunity to make your deck shine with personality. Here are some ideas to spruce up your outdoor oasis.

Using Your Outdoor Deck
The first step when putting together a deck design is to think about how your deck will be used. Here are some of the many uses for an outdoor deck, some of which you may not have considered.

1. Dining Al Fresco. If it's an outdoor dining area you're after, then your table will most likely be the centerpiece of your deck design. First, think about the number of people. A quaint bistro table might be all the table you need, and provide a focal point for the look and feel of your deck patio furniture. If, on the other hand, you plan on having large gatherings for the whole family, a bigger wood table with leaves or extensions may be the way to go. Also, don't forget the umbrella—these days there are lots of attractive designs, in sizes that can be as large as ten or twelve feet, and materials from simple aluminum to premium wood and canvas.

2. Getting Away From it All. For some homeowners, the deck is the perfect place for a second living room. Their deck design incorporates many of the elements that once were only found inside the home. Full sound systems mean that you can bring your music outside, and the latest thing on the market are weather-resistant LCD televisions that are made to withstand the elements. Add a grill and a cooler, and you can tailgate—and watch—next week's football game in the comfort of your own backyard!

3. The Party Headquarters. For many, a deck is a way of keeping in touch with friends and family, bringing folks together for a big party or a relaxing evening. Outdoor bars are a common feature of this deck design, in everything from classy oak to whimsical tiki. But a bar doesn't have to be the focal point of your deck lounge. Nothing brings people together quite as quickly as a roaring fire. Many deck patio furniture stores offer outdoor fireplaces that will make add that campfire feel to your deck. For easier operation, patio heaters make your deck more comfortable for entertaining with the turn of a knob. If, on the other hand, you're concerned about the party getting too hot, a misting outdoor fan will help keep your outdoor space cool.

4. Sleeping Under the Stars. Love the experience of camping but hate all the preparation and discomfort? Many homeowners these days are incorporating sleeping quarters into their deck design. Nor is this the bare-bones, tent-and-cot experience you might expect. Deck patio furniture designers across the spectrum have come out with luxurious daybeds that promise soothing comfort in the open-air sleeping experience.

5. The Kids are Alright. Parents know that playing outdoors is a great way for kids to get exercise, practice their creativity, and have fun. These folks choose a deck design that may incorporate a built-in sandbox, storage space for toys, and deck patio furniture that is both sturdy and kid-friendly.

Once you have decided how you're going to use your deck, it becomes easy to narrow down your options for deck design and deck patio furniture, finding pieces that will give you the most value and comfort for years to come.