Creating the illusion of space by using a few key building and design ideas can help you create a useable deck that will suit your requirements without taking up your whole yard. Whether you are looking to create an outdoor entertainment area, a quiet, all-season book nook or some alfresco dining ideas, here are some suggestions from the Dependabuild team to help you create the space you desire!
How do I design the space?
Using clever building ideas, your deck can be transformed into layers to provide perspective and give the illusion of more space. If you need steps to access the deck, transform them into wider layers as a way to create useable levels.
Why not consider areas with bench seating or a stand-up bar for entertaining? If you have views, ensure the outlook is directional to soak in the beauty of the space, creating a greater horizon and the perception of more space. Imagine lingering looking over the rooftops to that seaside view! Don’t let it pass you by when simply climbing the stairs to reach your destination. Transform the journey to and from the deck with wider spaces, turning a staircase into a viewing point for you and your guests to linger.
For the smaller backyards, consider using space that might be initially unusable:
Transform cold areas into a warm serene nook.
Use wood like a strong Jarrah or Spotted Gum to prevent moulding - these woods can also be treated to complement the natural hues of the space.
Or by using Composite Decking your space will be scratch-resistant and maintenance-free under trees that may drop a lot of twigs and leaves.
How can I create privacy?
A screen with captivating patterns can draw the eye and help give the feeling of privacy on the deck. The sometimes necessary task of disguising garbage bins or driveways can be achieved in an aesthetically pleasing way with a little bit of creativity. Using lattices made from wood, metal or some of the decorative garden trellis currently available will draw attention from these areas; bamboo and greenery are also naturally pleasing ways to create a hidden sanctuary. If the screening needs to be of occasional use, re-moveable screens in planter boxes or screens with added wheels on the bases can work fantastically so that when you’re not entertaining you have versatility.
How do I provide comfort?
Just because your deck is small doesn’t mean you cannot be comfortable. Fires can transform a cold space into a warm and inviting haven; moveable gas fires offer warmth or even electrical ceiling heating is a fantastic solution. Consider built-in planter boxes with added cushions for seating, place some hinges onto the lids and you have the perfect spot for storing those cosy blankets! Then just customise the styling to suit your taste: hand-crocheted blankets for that homely Bohemian feel or if you have a stylish, coastal outlook consider imitation fur to snuggle under.
Try to opt for an extendable table so you can keep it small when only for personal use. A bar with stools that slide under when not in use can also be used as a great social way to enjoy an outdoor meal and conserve space.
Sleek, alfresco style seating is a comfortable way to give you the appearance of space while being stylish. Complete the look with candles, a tablecloth and some nice table settings. During the warmer months, an industrial fan can ensure a welcome, cool breeze drifting through your outdoor deck.
Installing electrical points can easily be done by a qualified electrician if you choose to have a pergola built over your decking with ceiling fans to help cool you down. As an added bonus, they are great to scoot away any flies that want to join you for dinner! You can also plant a herb garden into planter boxes to help repel insects. Basil, Mint and Rosemary all provide a natural fragrance to help keep those warm summer nights mosquito-free as well as being a great addition to cooking those steaks on the BBQ.
How am I going to cook?
Cooking appliances like a kettle-style barbeque are amazing and can be fuelled by electricity, gas, or coal depending on your personal preference. BBQ kettles broaden your range of meals you can entice your guests with, keeping traditional Aussie style with steaks & burgers or roasting your favourite meats or fish. A big, space-saving advantage of the kettle BBQ is the ability to move it out of the way with ease when not in use.
In winter you could make use of an outdoor fire pit and cook paella over the flames! Friends can replace a table with large bowls and share stories while enjoying their camp-style meal. To make it even more relaxed, place some fold-out chairs around the fire that can be packed away once the dinner party is over.
What about lighting?
Light creates the ambience. We have come a long way from those coloured light bulbs that chew up a lot of energy (thank goodness)!
As an example, in-deck lighting enables you to highlight spaces without a blinding glow. They feel intimate and add warmth to your space. Placing lighting on steps can act as a safety measure as well, where it guides guests to the next landing or the garden.
Solar lighting is cost-effective and works amazingly in the Australian climate. They must be kept clean to consume the sun and work effectively but can come as in-deck lighting as well as lanterns, as string hanging lights or removable garden lighting that can work in planter boxes.
If you have installed roof fans, choosing some with internal lighting is a great option. They can be dimmed to suit your needs and incorporating them into the fan instead of the roof will prevent flickering when a fan is on.
Pendant lights are very in vogue, come in many different sizes and shapes and can make a statement if you’re going for a Bespoke style.
Candles are great and exude a lot of light when gathered in different shapes and sizes. Don’t forget to avoid candle fragrances that could confuse the senses; go for either non-fragrant candles or fragrances that complement your meal when eating.
As North Shore & Northern Beaches builders in Sydney, Shane and the Dependabuild team can help you realise your backyard decking needs and dreams!
