Understanding how to design a gradual and gentle transition in elevation is something that most deck designers never achieve. The best technique to accomplish this is to try to blend the stairs into the yard using an organic downward expressed motion. Imagine how a meandering path might descend a steep hill. Severe and sudden changes in elevation are not only awkward looking but also can be dangerous.

People must be able to identify and process taking a step up or down while they are moving. Steps that form irregular angles or that are difficult to see may cause a tripping hazard. Consider contrasting decking colors and adding riser lights to accentuate a vertical transition. Designing landings to soften the rigid nature of a long run of stairs can be very effective in comfortably negotiating an elevation change. Try wrapping stairs around a corner of your deck to prevent projecting too far into the yard. For low decks you may consider stepping down around an angled corner with a cascading wrap around stair. This type of stairs can work well to formalize an entrance to your deck from the yard. However cascading steps with more than 4 risers will begin to appear increasingly massive and awkward.