How to Plan & Design an Outside Deck on a House

Measure the yard space for the deck area. Draw the house and yard from a bird's-eye view on a sketchpad. Create a layout that will make the deck accessible from the kitchen, for example. Transfer the drawing to graph paper, so you can plan landscaping around the deck as well.

Define the railings and seating areas. Draw railings that slant outward, for example. Sketch seating benches on three sides of the deck that will be part of the framework. Include a small counter space on the deck for a food preparation area. Plan to install a small outdoor gas grill or sink as well.

Draw a deck cover over part of the deck space. Use this roof area when it's raining or when the sun is extremely hot. Sketch the porch space with the skeleton framework well-proportioned. Keep in mind that this framework will show in most cases. Make it visually appealing from underneath. Plan to add metal roofing or a bamboo roof, as possible options.

Select construction materials for the deck. Make a list of all needed items for the foundation, deck framework, benches and roof covering. Choose pressure-treated lumber or cedar as options. Decide whether to install concrete footings or concrete pilings to hold foundational posts. Figure out if you will need additional labor to assist you in the construction. Visit a home improvement store to discuss the project with a sales adviser in further detail.

Plan lighting and furniture for the deck space. Purchase solar lights on small stakes to place around the deck at ground level. Install electrical light fixtures on the deck or the house exterior wall. Choose a deck dining table with four chairs, an outdoor seating group, and large plant containers for blooming plants and small shrubs.