Nice weather, beautiful fall leaves crunching under your feet, that crisp air, and the smell of fire ignite something in you that thinks, ‘Thanksgiving outdoors on a porch would be so nice.’ If you had one that is.

A multilevel deck or patio, with a pergola or screened-in veranda, would suit everyone. A long table where everyone can break bread together and spend time together.

You can picture it in your mind, but really, what would it take to make it a reality?

The Proposal

A composite deck over two levels will give you a broad base for creating areas that complement your lifestyle and give personalized spaces for any occasion.

A shelter like a pergola or a porch will provide shade in the heat and protection from the weather. The integration of smart technology with lights and sound, a movie projector, combined with portable heaters, a fire pit, or a gas fireplace, will draw all your guests in.

Throw in some sensible but comfortable places to sit and relax, and you have the ultimate outdoor living space.

Entertaining

Twinkling fairy lights, a smart sound system, or even a little movie set up would provide a welcoming area that will entice your friends, family, and neighbors to seek out your unique gathering place for a chat, a drink, or a meal.

Solar lighting can light the path on your deck to a warm fire beside a long table where you can break bread together or have some hors d’oeuvres while you drink in the stars, the smells, and the beauty of nature all around.

An extension of your indoor living trickles outside, where a warm fire, comfortable seating, and cozy blankets make them want to stay all night.

Fun

Fun usually has to do with laughter, games, feelings of joy, etc. And when it comes to children, ‘fun’ is an important part of their day.

If you get a safe space with a sandbox or hopscotch squares drawn (with chalk), they’re free to organize themselves and pick their fun. This way, the kids can play while the adults enjoy some reading, the artist can do painting, or you could invite some friends for a murder mystery party.

It doesn’t matter what it is, as long as it’s fun.

Intimate nooks with big comfy chairs where you can cuddle up and share secrets, gossip, or see if you can find the meaning of life. What about a dart board on the wall for a little competition, or a cornhole board for added laughs? 

Built-in seating using beautiful materials that you can source locally will bring along with it some history, elegance, and a protected space for the memories being made.

Function

Multi-use spaces that can convert from a formal dining area to a comfy nook for people to chat, share, and laugh together are a design that goes further than a DIY enthusiast would like to go.

A custom deck or porch can often involve complex matters that you should discuss with local experts.

Here’s an example of why: In regions where homeowners have to deal with harsh freeze-thaw cycles,

For example, deck construction Avondale PA residents rely on will focus on dealing with harsh freeze-thaw cycles and heavy rain. So the main priorities are drainage and moisture-resistant materials. But if you take a region such as Iredell County in North Carolina (Statesville, Mooresville, Troutman), deck builders will focus more on wind resistance, plus, because of the humid subtropical climate, UV/heat-resistance is a must. And weather-storm durability (thunderstorms in particular) is also a high priority.

It’s best to seek out a local company known for its craftsmanship and knowledge of materials suited to the Northeastern climate. The expertise of a specialized contractor ensures you have a structurally sound structure and usually comes with a guarantee on the work.

Wellness

What is being built is going to deliver tranquility, health, and well-being to all who enter. It has been proven over and over again that communing with nature, grounding yourself with the elements (earth, water, air, and fire), enriches your soul.

Absorb all the energies around you and live a content, happy life.

Uniqueness

Putting your mark on the design can be easily done with the addition of special memorabilia scattered throughout to bring you back in history and move you ahead to the future. Thrifty can give you inspiration for DIY projects that would be unique and beautiful, and add to the ambiance. An old dresser can be converted into a fun, cosy chair for a cuddle with the dog or the grandkids, or refinished to house blankets, pillows, and sweaters for a cool evening.

This is the opportunity to bring out your essence and feel free to create.

Conclusion

Give yourself and your family this gift, and it will last in hearts and minds forever.

Living with purpose and intention for happiness and investing in your home is fulfilling on many levels.

Don’t be afraid to do things that make you and others happy.