How to Decorate a Small Deck

However, with careful planning, a few well chosen pieces of furniture, plants and accessories, you can transform your ho-hum deck into a beautiful outdoor retreat. Think about these steps, develop a plan, follow through and enjoy!

Things You'll Need

• Outdoor rug
• Focal point
• Outdoor furniture
• Colorful pillows
• Garden umbrella
• Decorative pots
• Urns
• Plant stands
• Green plants
• Flowering plants
• Trellis
• Vines
• Hanging baskets
• Lighting

Instructions

Make a Plan

1. Think about your goal for the primary use of the area.

2. Decide on a dining set or a comfortable sofa and chairs.

3. Consider the size of your deck and plan the traffic flow.

Purchase Furnishings

1. Buy an outdoor rug to soften the deck and define the dining or seating area. These are available in many sizes and colors at home improvement centers.

2. Choose a focal point. This could be a large piece of furniture, water fountain, architectural element, or even a fantastic view.

3. Purchase the best quality outdoor furniture you can afford. This is a good investment because the furniture will last longer. You can avoid the cost of replacing a rotted or broken piece every year.

4. Unify the space by choosing furniture of the same material and color--black iron, white wicker, or brown bamboo. Mixing furniture of different colors and materials imparts a cluttered look.

Decorate the Deck

1. Place the outdoor rug on the deck. Situate your focal point and position your furniture comfortably around it.

2. Accessorize with colorful outdoor pillows and cushions. Use a coordinating garden umbrella, if needed, for shade.

3. Add plants. Remember, space is limited, so start with two or three tall, slender green plants planted in decorative pots or urns. Group flowering plants around the green ones utilizing plant stands and pots of varying heights.

4. Think vertical for your small space. Train vines on trellises or suspend hanging baskets from overhead structures or roof soffits.

5. Utilize lights for effect. Outdoor lighting is available in pole lights, table lamps and hanging twinkling lights. Any of these will add coziness and ambiance.

6. Step back and evaluate. Don't be afraid to adjust the placement of a few things even if you have to do this a few times. You will know when you get it right.

Tips & Warnings

• Start out with a few plants and accessories. You can add a little at a time until you are satisfied with the overall effect. This will avoid overwhelming the area and having to return items.