Building an outdoor space is more than pouring some concrete so you have a place to grill. If you spend the time needed to do it right, your outdoor space can be an extension of your home. You can enjoy having somewhere you can cook, relax, entertain, and spend time outdoors year-round.
But if you’re in the early planning phase, there’s a lot to think through before the first shovel hits the dirt. As specialists in Plano outdoor living structures, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners design patios, porches, decks, and shade structures that fit their space and lifestyle. Based on our experience, here are six must-consider points before you break ground on your new project.
1. Location matters more than you think.
Sun exposure, drainage, and access can make or break your project. Where does the afternoon sun hit hardest? Is the yard level, or will grading be needed? Can contractors get equipment in and out easily?
We walk through these questions early because they influence everything else—from structure type to material selection. And in a place like Plano, where the weather swings from blazing sun to stormy downpours, those details matter more than most homeowners expect.
2. Layout should match how you live.
Every good outdoor design starts with zones: cooking, dining, lounging, and maybe even storage. We work with you to lay out the space based on how you use it—not just what looks good on paper.
Crisp corners work well for modern homes and more compact yards. Soft curves often suit natural landscapes and sprawling backyards. But with both, one thing remains constant—thoughtful flow goes a long way toward making your space feel open, connected, and inviting.
3. Pick the right structure for your goals.
Are you looking for a cozy spot to sip coffee in the morning? A place to grill year-round? Protection from bugs and rain? Your answers determine whether your lifestyle is best suited for a screened porch, deck, pergola, or one of our custom Plano covered patios.
Different Plano outdoor living spaces offer different levels of coverage, ventilation, and flexibility. We’ll help you weigh each one so you’re building with purpose—not guesswork.
4. Think about color the same way you think about comfort.
Color choice plays both an aesthetic and functional role, one you can use to handle heat. Darker materials absorb more sun, and that can mean hotter materials under bare feet on a summer afternoon. Lighter finishes, textured stone, and composite decking with heat-blocking technology are all ways to keep your space functional and beautiful.
We also help you think about color in context: how it ties into your home’s exterior, your furniture, and your landscaping.
5. Budgeting shouldn’t feel like a guessing game.
It’s not a difficult detail to understand, but it is important to mention. You should take extra care to make sure your money is being used to build the best outdoor space for your budget.
We know that talking about budget can feel awkward, but we work hard to make it easy. That means our design team will work closely with you to understand your priorities. In doing so, we’re more able to suggest options that fit and offer transparent pricing so you’re never caught off guard. We also offer financing, which means you don’t have to put off the backyard you’ve been dreaming about.
6. Who you work with is just as important as what you build.
Even the best design can be hard to realize in the wrong hands. It’s important to choose an outdoor living contractor with a proven track record of success, clear communication skills, and supportive service.
Look for a company with a reputation for clean worksites, showing up on time, and attention to detail. Look at reviews online and see what clients have to say. It’s a big project, and doing your due diligence here can only help!
Ready to build your Plano backyard patio or covered retreat?
With Archadeck of Northeast Dallas-Southlake, you can expect to work with a proven team of skilled craftspeople, professional project managers, and designers who know how to bring your ideas to life.
Whether you’re looking for simple shade or a complete outdoor kitchen and entertaining area, we’ll help you plan, design, and build it with confidence.
For a thorough, no-obligation, complimentary design consultation, please call us at (972) 433-7526 or click here to connect with our team.
