Decks with partial shade work better than those in full sun. Decks in the South are often two-season spaces with occasional cloudy days in summer suitable for outdoor relaxation. Decks also perform well at night, with twinkle lights and candles and moonlight. Wood Wise decks often involve out-of-the-ordinary materials or design. We have built decks with cedar, redwood, and mahogany decking. We have used steel pipe, Plexiglas, galvanized cable, and dowels for railings. The vinyl railings and composite decking offer a low maintenance appeal. At Wood Wise we offer several types of composite decking, some with hidden fasteners. Our signature railing consists of horizontal pipes with wood railing. Porches in North Carolina work best with screened walls due to our bug population and can be used all four seasons of the year. We generally specify dark gray fiberglass screen, as it is least likely to have a glare from overhead sun, is resistant to tears, and stays taut. Metal screen does not recover well from dents and eventually rusts. Designing decks and porches involves several factors, including the type and number of seating areas. A table with chairs needs a minimum 8-foot radius to feel comfortable for table seating for four people.   Lighting over a table can be limiting to changes of furniture layout. Consider GFI electrical outlets for floor lamps for reading, dimmers, and perimeter lighting (often concealed) for enhanced atmosphere. Rocking chairs are still in fashion, and as porches get larger, we see rattan sofas and chairs at one end and table seating at the other. Ceiling details add interesting design features. Finally, ventless fireplaces add warmth in the fall and spring and even allow winter porch days. The cozy glow adds ambience anytime. Sit down, gear down, and enjoy the outdoors on you deck and porch.