Here, let's take a look at a conversion project, taking an original, poured concrete patio space and turning it into a beautiful new wooden deck. Going step by step, we'll show you what a difference there is to be made. To the right you'll see our starting point: the old concrete patio, bordered by an old, whitewashed, horizontal slat fence. What can we do to liven this up a bit?

As we start working on our project, we can see that there is a tree growing in our patio area. It would be a shame to waste such a beautiful landscaping detail... or such a nice shade tree, for that matter. There has to be something we can do here...

With the underpinning and frame of our deck taking shape, you can see that there is something we can do; namely, work around the tree. A space is being left around the trunk as we put the deck together, leaving plenty of room for the tree to grow for the future. Now both deck and tree can be enjoyed for years to come.

As we continue to work, you'll see that we're also replacing the fence along the property line. Not only will the new fence be built to compliment the materials used in the new deck, but it is also being built up to a greater height both to compensate for the higher deck surface and to allow for greater privacy.

As with the previous fence, this one allows access to the sidewalk and front yard. Ours accomplishes this with a gate built to blend with the rest of the fencing, which provides the access and still allows a fuller enclosure of the deck area.

Our end result... a beautiful new wooden deck, ready for relaxing or entertaining. As you can see, the incorporation of the tree only adds to the beauty of the deck. The edges of the deck not bounded by the house or the property line fence are left open to the backyard; they can be left uncluttered to maintain the simple look and access to the yard, or perhaps lined with planter boxes to present a lively personal touch. Take a look again where we started... what a difference a deck makes!