Take some time to get reacquainted with your yard. Ask yourself these questions. How would you describe your site? Do you live in an urban or rural setting? If you close your eyes and listen for 5 minutes what do you hear…birds, rustling leaves, or cars and airplanes?

Examine the advantages and disadvantages of the site. What kind of views do you have to work with…a breathtaking snow capped mountain peak or an ugly water tower? Spend some time in the space at different times of day to get an idea of what kind of day lighting you can expect to experience. Do you have any trees that provide spotted shade? If not you may want to incorporate a shade feature. Can you expect there to be any refreshing summer breezes? Will you be pestered by mosquitoes? Consider the climate you live in. How many months during the year will it make sense for you to use the deck? Is your yard flat or sloping? Do you have a pool, patio, hot tub or garden? Most of all think about whether or not you find this is a pleasant space to spend time and how a deck might affect the existing context. Try to concentrate on drawing from the positive elements of the site in your design and if possible reduce the impact of negative influences.