Entertain in Style on Your Custom Deck from Wilson Woodscape
Transform your outdoor living space into a stylish oasis and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors with a beautifully designed deck! Decks extend your living area, create outdoor rooms for entertainment, and provide a close connection with nature. With your deck as a blank canvas, the possibilities are endless when it comes to creating an outdoor retreat customized to your needs.
At Wilson Woodscape, our San Diego, CA deck builder, Jeff Wilson, can create the ultimate customized deck that will provide an idyllic space for relaxing, socializing, dining, and more in your backyard.
Assessing Your Space and Needs
Before starting a new custom deck project with Wilson Woodscape, the first step includes Jeff Wilson evaluating your outdoor space and determining how you want to use the deck.
- He’ll consider the size and layout of your yard, sunlight exposure, proximity to the home, and how the deck will be accessed.
- Any slopes or grade changes in the yard are noted.
- Think about how you plan to use the space — for entertaining, dining, relaxing, a play area for kids/pets, etc.
- The area measured will determine the potential deck size and shape.
- For sloped yards, a multi-level or tiered deck can be a great option to help the deck integrate with the existing terrain.
- Stairs and walkways can connect different sections for seamless flow.
- Make sure to account for slopes and work with natural typography when planning deck layouts.
Types of Decks
There are several deck design types to consider:
- Free-Standing Deck: A free-standing deck isn’t attached to the home and is accessed by stairs leading to the yard. This offers the most flexibility in shape and footprint without needing to connect to the home’s structure.
- Deck on Grade: A deck on grade is built close to ground level, making it a low-maintenance option. Often used to enhance patios and walkways. Gradual stairs transition from the yard onto the deck space.
- Deck on Slope: Decks built on a slope or hillside use multi-level designs to step up or down with the yard’s grade changes. Stairs, walkways, and railings help connect the sections.
- Deck on Ledger: A ledger deck attaches directly to the home using a secure ledger board fastened to the house. This provides a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor living spaces.
Exploring Deck Materials and Styles
There are many options when selecting decking materials, including natural woods like cedar and redwood or composite materials. Choose materials suitable for your climate that fits your budget.
- Hardwoods like Ipe and Tigerwood offer durability while cedar provides a classic look.
- Composites like Trex are made from recycled plastics and resist fading and decay.
Decking can be laid straight or diagonally. You can mix materials, patterns, and colors for added visual interest. The style of your deck should complement your home’s aesthetic, whether traditional, contemporary, or rustic. Consider adding stylish features like customized pergolas, built-in benches, or planter boxes from our San Diego woodwork builder.
Designing Functional Deck Layouts
A well-planned deck layout accommodates your intended uses and access points. Include enough open floor space for furniture groupings and activities. Built-in benches around the perimeter offer versatile seating. Step down or tier sections to create visual depth.
You may consider incorporating functional elements like an outdoor kitchen, dining space, lounging area, hot tub section, fire pit, and play zones for kids and pets. Link the deck to patios or garden paths for seamless outdoor living.
Enhancing Deck Safety and Accessibility
Safety is a top priority for any deck design. Use slip-resistant decking materials and include proper railings, balusters, and stairs with graspable handrails. Provide ample outdoor lighting and overhead elements for shelter.
For accessibility, incorporate wide stairs, minimal changes in floor level, and a low-maintenance ramp design if needed. Level decking and smooth transitions between sections aid mobility.
Adding Stylish Deck Features
Personalize your deck with attractive built-ins and architectural details. Pergolas framed with climbable plants create a shaded retreat. Built-in planter boxes around the edges allow space for ornamental grasses or cascading flowers. Outdoor walls and fences define the space and boost privacy.
Finish it off with stylish railings, trim work, and lighting fixtures. Integrate a cozy fire pit or chic water feature. Lay patterned pavers or decorative tiles as accents. Include a storage bench, shelving, and hooks for organizing furnishings, cushions, and accessories.
Choosing Outdoor Furniture and Decor
Select durable and weather-resistant outdoor furniture in materials like powder-coated metals, teak, synthetic wicker, and waterproof cushions. Choose pieces in coordinating colors and materials for visual flow. Stylish sets of group seating, side tables, and coffee tables.
Pull together the look with weatherproof rugs, pillows, and outdoor curtains. Add pops of color and texture with planters, lanterns, and garden art. Use different furniture configurations to define distinct zones for dining, lounging, and more.
Incorporating Greenery and Landscaping
Soften and enhance the deck’s surroundings by incorporating trees, shrubs, flowers, and greenery. Shade trees help cool the deck while ornamental grasses and potted plants add visual interest. Plant privacy hedges or screens to define the outdoor room.
Edge the deck with easy-care, low-maintenance plantings. Let vines like clematis climb over pergolas or railings. Use container gardens to add pops of color that can change with the seasons.
Integrating Lighting and Ambiance
Proper outdoor lighting transforms a deck from day to night. Incorporate path lighting, step lights, and post cap lights for safety and visibility. Hang pendants or string lights overhead for a festive glow. Landscape lights illuminate trees and garden beds.
Add drama with contemporary deck lights built right into the railings. Use dimmers for adjustable mood lighting. Candle lanterns, fire pits, and fireplaces also boost the ambiance for evening gatherings. Control smart bulbs via mobile apps for convenience.
Maintaining and Caring for Your Deck
A well-cared-for deck will provide enjoyment for seasons to come. To ensure and extend your deck’s lifespan, perform maintenance such as:
- Keep it free of debris and leaves which can cause slip hazards.
- Use a hose or pressure washer to remove dirt and stains annually.
- Re-seal wood decks as needed to prevent fading.
- Inspect for loose boards, railings, and hardware.
- Make repairs promptly to prevent additional damage.
- Cover furniture when not in use.
- Check for plant overgrowth and prune back vines.
- Winterize and store pieces when not used seasonally.
Start Planning Your Dream Deck With Wilson Woodscape
Ready to create your ideal outdoor living space? The investment will be well worth it when you can relax in a beautiful new outdoor oasis. For help bringing your deck vision to life, contact Wilson Woodscape today at (619) 838-1398 to schedule a consultation with our deck contractor. We listen to your goals and turn ideas into reality. Our master craftsman combines artistry and skill to construct stunning decks that will become a treasured part of your home.
