Landscape and Urban Design Issue 46 2020 | Page 12

DECKING

CLEAR THE DECKS

As we move into a second wave of lockdowns , those in tier 2 areas are facing an alfresco winter , should they wish to socialise . To enable COVID-compliant socialising with friends and family , many will be looking into ways of transforming their outdoor space as the cooler weather settles in . Outdoor heaters , fire pits and pizza ovens have seen a staggering surge in demand , and interest in decking options has followed suit , as homeowners look to maximise their living space and make their gardens more enticing .
Decking is a versatile product , allowing garden landscapers to add a welcome pop of personality to an outdoor area . From creating an impressive walkway from living room to lawn , or raising ground level to the height of the doors to rectify surface disparity , decking is a feature with endless scope for opportunity .
Practicality beyond the aesthetics Stylish decking can drastically improve the overall look of a garden . Even the smallest section has the power to transform an outdoor space , adding a strong focal point around which other visual elements can congregate .
Practically , decking can also be specified to level out any uneven or sloping ground , and fill awkward or unused areas on steep inclines . It increases the size of the garden and finds a purpose for any space which was previously unusable .
In more extensive gardens , incorporating steps and terraces can further maximise space . If the structure is positioned high enough , the area underneath can be used as additional , lockable storage , a spacesaving alternative to the traditional shed .
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