Any time spent on a deck will be more enjoyable when surrounded by a few favorite things. But, as with any good design, decorating a deck can benefit a great deal from taking the time to do some advance planning.

The first important step is to sit in a comfortable chair and survey the space. It's a must to avoid consciously planning the space in doing this looking around. However, it is important to make note of what areas are attention getting. These are the places that need details of some type. A smart idea would be to choose one good size item per seating area for emphasis such as a smooth, round granite or concrete ball perched beside a bench. This would add a much needed focal point by creating an unusual juxtaposition. If floor space is limited in a particular area, the largest object of some sort could be mounted on the wall to create a sense of drama.

Homeowner collections are an ideal possibility for helping to decorate a deck. A collection creates one focal point out of several objects. Grouping related objects such as folk art, cherub statues, finials or birdhouses invites comparison and draws attention. All of these small pieces take on much greater importance when displayed thoughtfully together. However, it is extremely vital that its setting is chosen carefully. House or garden walls, ledges, windowsills, empty corners and even flower and garden beds are good places in which to display collections. Avoid placing one collection too close to another collection or accents that will compete against one another for attention. Neutral backgrounds such as fences, walls and green plants have the capacity to show off collections to their best advantage. When displaying collections make a point to vary the color of objects if the forms are similar. If the shapes are different then it is wiser to ensure that the colors are similar to be most effective.

When placing deck decorations, it is very effective to establish some sort of theme. Something as simple as using star shaped objects, frogs or objects that are blue has the capacity to assist the space in maintaining a unified look. Make a deliberate point of avoiding any type of clutter. Allow enough room between the items selected so that each one has the opportunity to be noticed by a relative or guest. A great technique for avoiding any measure of clutter is to find ways to purposely display accessories at different heights.There is no right or wrong way in which to display personal objects or details in an outdoor living space. Homeowners are only limited by their imagination. Visits to the decks of relatives, friends and neighbors are great sources for ideas on how to decorate a deck.

Consider mounting an interesting piece of driftwood on a wall and decorating it with a set of small mini-lights, dried flowers, beads placed in crevices or a collection of tiny wooden birds. Place brightly decorated birdhouses on top of arbor or pergola rafters that are visible from anyone reclining on a deck lounger or hammock. Prop a salvaged artifact or pair of antique watering cans against a large container of flowers at decking level.Try nailing or gluing old bottle caps, horseshoes or a collection of old trivets across the foot of a screen door.

Paint a prominent fence or gate post a color that stands out from the rest. Add a face in some way as well as arms, wings, hair or a hat in order to create an original and personal garden sculpture. Spike an old fashioned weather vane into a large container of flowers or into a raised flower bed to draw attention to the seasonal color.Hang mobiles, kites or wind chimes to catch the breeze in and around the deck and create an open air art gallery.

Suspend unexpected objects such as old silverware or large beads from overhead structures or wall brackets.
Set out objects such as window shutters, an old 6 panel mirror, an antique sewing machine or a canoe paddle in places where something special is needed to fill a dull spot. Pottery, keys, old tools, shells, marbles, antique signs, sun motifs, fishing gear and stained glass pieces are all interesting things that can withstand the elements of mother nature and have the potential to act as decorations for outdoor spaces.

An old saying holds that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. In decorating a deck it is imperative to look for ways to make the outdoor space as appealing as possible to family members, friends and other guests through the careful and strategic placement of personal touches.