The starting point
What this idea sets out to solve.
Turn the area outside the back door into a space that is used regularly. The footprint is shaped around seating and movement rather than filling as much of the yard as possible.
Draw the furniture before the footprint
Place the chairs, table and routes on a simple sketch. That helps show whether the proposed deck has useful space or just extra area around the edges.
Make the connection part of the design
Consider the door, landing, steps and yard together. The deck is one part of the route between inside and outside.
Compare appearance and upkeep
A natural timber look carries its own care requirements. Discuss material alternatives and the maintenance you want to take on before deciding.
