One of my favorite design ideas for how to build a deck is to not build one at all, rather to add awesome to an existing one. Many decks, what I call ‘basic boxes’ can be tricked out, dialed in, and added to in lots of different ways. With some design inspiration and a little work you can take them from, ‘eh’ to epic.
-Think arbor. One of my favorite projects—and it works great on decks high and low—is a wood arbor integrated into the guard rail. It offers texture and creates a cozy space. Done nicely, it also adds polite privacy.
-Step out. For decks at or near ground level, how to build a deck without major deck demolition can be challenging. One design trick for how to build a deck: Remove the existing guardrail and add a wide stair. This opens up your view to the yard and is an inviting way to do everything from entertain to let your dog run in the yard. Make sure to add guardrails back in as needed to conform to building code in your area.
-Plant one. A great way to border wide deck stairs or a give a large deck some coziness is with built-in planters. Planters add more shape and texture to the area, plus a bolt of color all through the outdoor season. Building them with wood enables you to customize the size and shape to your space plus bring in wood’s natural beauty. Make sure to drill holes beneath your planting area so water can drain.
-Lighting. Integrate low-voltage lighting. Small lights in the stair risers add a lovely look for nighttime entertaining.
So if you’re thinking about how to build a deck, or you’re thinking about building onto the deck you already have, creating space, adding texture and bringing in color are fun ways to make an old deck new.
