You may not think of a landscaping company when it comes to deck design, but you should. Not only do we have skilled landscape designers on hand, we also have carpenters, masons, and craftspeople with the skills and expertise to ensure your deck design project is drawn up according to local building codes and will function the way you want it to. We are happy to show you our qualifications and provide examples of our work, and we always 100% guarantee the outcome. As a full-service landscape design, construction, and maintenance company, we at Mirage Landscaping are able to tackle any project meant to help increase both your use and enjoyment of your yard.
Ask yourself why? And how?
The first thing to do when planning a deck design is to ask yourself why you want a deck and what it will be used for. Do you need an eating area? A seating area? A place to barbecue? What about some shade? Make a list of your must-haves, and add in your nice-to-haves, too.
Then, it’s time to think about budget. Be honest with yourself about how much you have, but also don’t try to scrimp and save too much. You want to be able to enjoy your new deck for many years to come – not regret having invested too little. When you speak with us at Mirage, you can provide a budget range and we will draw up several options for your consideration.
Mapping out your yard
This is one of the tasks we at Mirage can help you with when you bring us on for your deck design. Mapping out your yard is pivotal for understanding the most functional size and best placement for your deck. Then, we will help you visualize the finished project in your yard. Quite often, ten feet can seem like enough on paper, until you see it marked out in 3D.
Other than size, additional factors we take into consideration for your deck design include the slope of your yard, which way it faces, and where your utilities are located. If your yard is particularly sloped, a slight regrading may be necessary in order to stop erosion that may damage your deck. A deck that is constantly exposed to the sun and harsh weather may require a more durable type of building material and a protective coating. Where utility lines are located can affect where we place your deck posts.
Consider built-in planters
Built-in planters can be made of any material and will not threaten the integrity of your deck in any way. We can design your planters to hook in with your underground irrigation so that your annuals, perennials, and shrubs are always getting the moisture they need, without you even having to think about it. Your sprinklers will be set to spray exactly where they should, making watering extremely effective.
Custom lighting adds to year-round use.
Options for custom outdoor lighting abound, and allow for homeowners to more easily enjoy their outdoor space year-round. Imagine being able to barbecue on a warm winter’s night with the assistance of a well-placed pole light. Outdoor lighting choices range from having fixed lamps directly wired into your home’s electrical system to string lights that can be easily taken down and put back up. Numerous solar options also eliminate the need for electricity.
Fun deck décor ideas
There are a ton of fun ways to dress up your deck once it’s complete, and the proper décor can add the final touch needed to bring everything together.
- If you decided against built-in planters, potted plants are an absolute must for a deck. Plant bright annuals during the summer to attract pollinators and use the containers for pretty outdoor winter decorations.
- Cushions, carpets, and pillows come in extremely durable fabrics that can survive through both heavy hailstorms and intense sun. Look for those made of polypropylene, olefin, coated polyester and acrylic. We still recommend taking care to put them away when not in use, however, as this will greatly extend their lifespan.
- Place your citronella candles in attractive (non-flammable) holders to add ambience while also keeping mosquitoes away. Having a nicely trimmed lawn also helps keep the pests down in your yard.
- Natural gas fire pits are safe, beautiful, and provide a wonderful gathering place on your deck.
Contact Mirage to begin the conversation
With over three generations of experience landscaping in Calgary, our commitment to individualized customer service has made us a leader in our industry. Our talented staff of loyal landscaping and maintenance professionals are able to provide their years of expertise to any sort of commercial or residential landscape construction project. View our portfolio here, and contact us for a quote on your next outdoor project.
