Decked Out for Entertaining — Designing Outdoor Spaces That Host

Recent residential trends highlight:

• Built-in bench seating instead of bulky patio furniture.

• Layered privacy screens that provide intimacy without feeling boxed in.

• Ambient LED lighting for evening comfort and safety.

• Durable materials that stay cool to the touch and stand up to salt air.

When the deck, fence, and lighting are designed together, your backyard becomes more than functional — it becomes an experience.

Design Tips for Building the Perfect Hosting Deck

1. Plan for zones, not furniture.
Instead of crowding a small deck with chairs, build bench seating into the perimeter. It adds structure and flow while keeping open movement areas for guests.

2. Add partial privacy with purpose.
Slatted privacy panels or louvered screens let air move freely while creating separation between your entertaining zone and the rest of the yard.

3. Layer your lighting.
Use deck rail LEDs, fence post caps, or under-bench strips to make the entire area glow softly. It’s more welcoming (and safer) than relying on a single floodlight.

4. Bring warmth with materials.
Hybrid wood-look composites and aluminum trim bring the texture of wood without the maintenance. They also look beautiful under ambient light.

5. Think about acoustics.
Adding a vertical fence or privacy screen near your deck helps buffer sound — a bonus if you’re hosting friends, playing music, or have close neighbors.

Design with Intention

The best gatherings start with thoughtful spaces. Whether it’s a quiet evening with friends or a full-house celebration, your deck should invite connection — not compromise it.

At Smithery Post & Plank, we design and build decks and fences that bring people together — durable, stylish, and made to thrive in Sebastian, Vero Beach, Palm Bay, and Melbourne.